Genetic influences on thinning of the cerebral cortex during development

►A large number of twins were scanned at age 9 (N = 190) and again at 12 (N = 125). ►Genetic factors acting on cortical thickness were independent across ages 9 and 12. ►Considerable thinning of the cortex was found between the ages 9 and 12. ►Cortical thinning was under genetic control. ►Genetic factors acting on cortical change were independent across brain areas.