X-linked imprinting: effects on brain and behaviour.
Imprinted genes are monoallelically expressed in a parent-of-origin-dependent manner and can affect brain and behavioural phenotypes. The X chromosome is enriched for genes affecting neurodevelopment and is donated asymmetrically to male and female progeny. Hence, X-linked imprinted genes could potentially influence sexually dimorphic neurobiology. Consequently, investigations into such loci may provide new insights into the biological basis of behavioural differences between the sexes and into why men and women show different vulnerabilities to certain mental disorders. In this review, we summarise recent advances in our knowledge of X-linked imprinted genes and the brain substrates that they may act upon. In addition, we suggest strategies for identifying novel X-linked imprinted genes and their downstream effects and discuss evolutionary theories regarding the origin and maintenance of X-linked imprinting.
Davies
William
W
Laboratories of Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience and Developmental Genetics and Imprinting, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK. william.davies@bbsrc.ac.uk
Isles
Anthony R
AR
Burgoyne
Paul S
PS
Wilkinson
Lawrence S
LS
D000818:Animals; D001519:Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D005075:Biological Evolution; D001921:Brain / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology; D018392:Genomic Imprinting / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008957:Models, Genetic; D014960:X Chromosome / Q000235:genetics*