The past decade has seen a rapid accumulation of knowledge on the behavioral characteristics of zebrafish, and increased investigation into the neurobiological basis of behavior using zebrafish. This simple vertebrate represents an ideal compromise between system complexity and practical simplicity, with its mammalian sequence homology, fecundity, and conveniently small size and transparent embryology. Behavioral and Neural Genetics of Zebrafish assembles state of the art methodologies and the most current concepts pertinent to the neurobehavioral genetics of zebrafish. Discussing its natural behavior, motor function, and learning and memory, it focuses on the fry and adult zebrafish and features a comprehensive account of modern genetic and neural methods adapted to or specifically developed for Danio rerio. Numerous examples of how these behavioral methods may be utilized for disease models using the zebrafish will be presented, as well as a section on bioinformatics and "big-data" related questions. Focusing on this excellent translational tool, this book examines a species with which investigators may model and analyze even such complex human diseases as those associated with brain dysfunction. Provides the most comprehensive snapshot of the fast-evolving zebrafish neurobehavior genetics field Describes description of behavioral, genetic, and neural methods and concepts and adult and larval zebrafish Features examples of zebrafish models of human central nervous system disorders Discusses bioinformatics questions pertinent to zebrafish neurobehavioral genetics

This book covers a wide array of topics relevant to behavioral genetics from both a preclinical and clinical standpoint. Indeed in juxtaposing both areas of research the reader will appreciate the true translational nature of the field. Topics covered range from technical advances in genetic analysis in humans and animals to specific descriptions of advances in schizophrenia, attention disorders, depression and anxiety disorders, autism, aggression, neurodegeneration and neurodevelopmental disorders. The importance of gene-environment interactions is emphasised and the role of neuroimaging in unravelling the functional consequences of genetic variability described. This volume will be valued by both the basic scientist and clinician alike who may use it as a detailed reference book. It will also be of use to the novice to the field, to whom it will serve as an in-depth introduction to this exciting area of research.

Molecular-Genetic and Statistical Techniques for Behavioral and Neural Research presents the most exciting molecular and recombinant DNA techniques used in the analysis of brain function and behavior, a critical piece of the puzzle for clinicians, scientists, course instructors and advanced undergraduate and graduate students. Chapters examine neuroinformatics, genetic and neurobehavioral databases and data mining, also providing an analysis of natural genetic variation and principles and applications of forward (mutagenesis) and reverse genetics (gene targeting). In addition, the book discusses gene expression and its role in brain function and behavior, along with ethical issues in the use of animals in genetics testing. Written and edited by leading international experts, this book provides a clear presentation of the frontiers of basic research as well as translationally relevant techniques that are used by neurobehavioral geneticists. - Focuses on new techniques, including electrocorticography, functional mapping, stereo EEG, motor evoked potentials, optical coherence tomography, magnetoencephalography, laser evoked potentials, transmagnetic stimulation, and motor evoked potentials - Presents the most exciting molecular and recombinant DNA techniques used in the analysis of brain function and behavior - Written and edited by leading international experts

A comprehensive portrayal of the behaviour genetics of the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) and the methods used in these studies.

A comprehensive and critical overview of the major genetically modified mouse lines used to model human neurobehavioral disorders.

A comprehensive review of the current state of our knowledge on the inheritance of normal behaviour in the laboratory mouse.

Principles of Behavioral Genetics provides an introduction to the fascinating science that aims to understand how our genes determine what makes us tick. It presents a comprehensive overview of the relationship between genes, brain, and behavior. Introductory chapters give clear explanations of basic processes of the nervous system and fundamental principles of genetics of complex traits without excessive statistical jargon. Individual chapters describe the genetics of social interactions, olfaction and taste, memory and learning, circadian behavior, locomotion, sleep, and addiction, as well as the evolution of behavior. Whereas the focus is on genetics, neurobiological and ecological aspects are also included to provide intellectual breadth. The book uses examples that span the gamut from classical model organisms to non-model systems and human biology, and include both laboratory and field studies. Samples of historical information accentuate the text to provide the reader with an appreciation of the history of the field. This book will be a valuable resource for future generations of scientists who focus on the field of behavioral genetics. - Defines the emerging science of behavioral genetics - Engagingly written by two leading experts in behavioral genetics - Clear explanations of basic quantitative genetic, neurogenetic and genomic applications to the study of behavior - Numerous examples ranging from model organisms to non-model systems and humans - Concise overviews and summaries for each chapter

A complete background to concepts and principles of behavioral genetics, Neurobehavioral Genetics: Methods and Applications, Second Edition features a broad spectrum of the most current techniques in neurobehavioral genetics in a single source. International researchers incorporate several new developments in the field, including: De

Behavior genetics has always been a breeding ground for controversies. From the “criminal chromosome” to the “gay gene,” claims about the influence of genes like these have led to often vitriolic national debates about race, class, and inequality. Many behavior geneticists have encountered accusations of racism and have had their scientific authority and credibility questioned, ruining reputations, and threatening their access to coveted resources. In Misbehaving Science, Aaron Panofsky traces the field of behavior genetics back to its origins in the 1950s, telling the story through close looks at five major controversies. In the process, Panofsky argues that persistent, ungovernable controversy in behavior genetics is due to the broken hierarchies within the field. All authority and scientific norms are questioned, while the absence of unanimously accepted methods and theories leaves a foundationless field, where disorder is ongoing. Critics charge behavior geneticists with political motivations; champions say they merely follow the data where they lead. But Panofsky shows how pragmatic coping with repeated controversies drives their scientific actions. Ironically, behavior geneticists’ struggles for scientific authority and efforts to deal with the threats to their legitimacy and autonomy have made controversy inevitable—and in some ways essential—to the study of behavior genetics.

The book gives a broad overview of recombinant DNA techniques for the behavioral neuroscientist, with illustrative examples of applications. Species covered include rodents (mainly mice), Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans and Danio rerio. Experimental techniques required to characterize the behavioral phenotypes of mutant animals is provided. Several aspects of novel molecular-genetic techniques are overviewed and possible research strategies are explained. The sections of the book start with general descriptions of techniques followed by illustrative examples. It is divided into six sections. Section 1, bioinformatics and genomics research. Section 2, top-down strategies, where the researcher starts with the phenotype and then analyzes the associated genes; bottom-up strategies, where the physiological chain leading to a phenotype is analyzed starting from the gene product. Section 3, transgenic approaches in rodents including overexpressing foreign genes and gene-targeting; systemic manipulation approaches directly targeting the central nervous system and methods used with invertebrates. Section 4, methods used to evaluate relevant behavioral phenotypes, including learning and aggression. Section 5, examples on molecular brain research in man. Section 6, ethical aspects of research in this field.