Genes and the Development of Neural Networks Underlying Cognitive Processes

The influence of genetic factors on normal and abnormal mental development has been well established so it is appropriate to begin to explore in more detail the biological bases of these phenomena. The influence of genes on the development of neural networks that are related to cognitive processes can be accomplished using tools developed by the Human Genome Project. One approach to this question examines individual differences in the efficiency and activity of various neural networks related to attention as a function of genetic variation in specific candidate genes. This chapter reviews what has been accomplished using this appoach and presents some of its limitations.