Biological pathways and genetic mechanisms involved in social functioning.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the major findings in the literature regarding associations between biological and genetic factors and social functioning, paying special attention to: (1) heritability studies on social functioning and related concepts; (2) hypothesized biological pathways and genetic variants that could be involved in social functioning, and (3) the implications of these results for quality-of-life research.


METHODS
A search of Web of Science and PubMed databases was conducted using combinations of the following keywords: genetics, twins, heritability, social functioning, social adjustment, social interaction, and social dysfunction.


RESULTS
Variability in the definitions and measures of social functioning was extensive. Moderate to high heritability was reported for social functioning and related concepts, including prosocial behavior, loneliness, and extraversion. Disorders characterized by impairments in social functioning also show substantial heritability. Genetic variants hypothesized to be involved in social functioning are related to the network of brain structures and processes that are known to affect social cognition and behavior.


CONCLUSIONS
Better knowledge and understanding about the impact of genetic factors on social functioning is needed to help us to attain a more comprehensive view of health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) and will ultimately enhance our ability to identify those patients who are vulnerable to poor social functioning.
Department of Human Anatomy and Psychobiology, University of Murcia, and Murcia Institute for Biomedical Research (IMIB), Murcia, Spain. ordonana@um.es
Juan R
JR
Ordoñana
Meike
M
Bartels
Dorret I
DI
Boomsma
David
D
Cella
Miriam
M
Mosing
Joao R
JR
Oliveira
Donald L
DL
Patrick
Ruut
R
Veenhoven
Gert G
GG
Wagner
Mirjam A G
MA
Sprangers
D005260:Female; D014644:Genetic Variation; D005824:Genetics, Behavioral; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D063868:Patient Outcome Assessment; D011788:Quality of Life; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012919:Social Behavior