Distributed genetic architecture across the hippocampal formation implies common neuropathology across major brain disorders

Abstract

Despite its major role in complex human behaviours across the lifespan, including memory formation and decline, navigation and emotions, much of the genetic architecture of the hippocampal formation is currently unexplored. Here, through multivariate genome-wide association analysis in volumetric data from 35,411 individuals, we revealed 173 unique genetic loci with distributed associations across the hippocampal formation. We identified profound genetic overlap with eight major developmental and degenerative brain disorders, where common genes suggest partly age- and disorder-independent mechanisms underlying hippocampal pathology.