Neuroimaging the genetic effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on human hippocampus

The genetic determinants of human brain function have long been elusive, but are now beginning to emerge. The conjunction of the sequencing of the human genome (ie, the discovery of all genes) with the development of new neuroimaging techniques has produced an astonishing leap forward in our ability to detect the effects of genes on neurobiological processes. This poster focuses on a prototypical study of the gene for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), showing its role in human hippocampal function and memory.