Neurogenetics and Epigenetics
Neurogenetics investigates how genetic variation influences brain structure, function, and susceptibility to neurological diseases. This track focuses on the role of inherited mutations, gene expression patterns, and epigenetic modifications in disorders such as epilepsy, autism, and neurodevelopmental syndromes. It will also explore genome-wide association studies (GWAS), CRISPR gene-editing technology, and next-generation sequencing as tools for understanding the genetic basis of brain disorders. Epigenetics, including DNA methylation and histone modification, is increasingly recognized as a dynamic mediator of gene-environment interactions. Presentations in this track will show how these factors contribute to cognitive development, brain plasticity, and disease progression.