Candidate and non-candidate genes in behavior genetics

In this review we discuss recent developments in psychiatric genetics: on the one hand, studies using whole genome approaches (genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and exome sequencing) are coming close to finding genes and molecular variants that contribute to disease susceptibility; on the other candidate genes, such as the serotonin transporter, continue to dominate in genetic studies of brain imaging phenotypes and in protracted searches for gene by environment interactions. These two areas intersect, in that new information about genetic effects from whole genome approaches, should (but does not always) inform the single locus analyses.

► Common variants of small effect contribute to psychiatric disease. ► Rare de novo mutations occur in the exons of patients with schizophrenia and autism. ► Effect sizes of loci influencing brain size are comparable to those of other phenotypes. ► The literature of imaging genetic studies contains many false positives. ► Studies on gene by environment interaction are mostly underpowered.