J Pediatr Genet 2016; 05(03): 150-157
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1584549
Original Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Potential Role of Cortisol in Social and Memory Impairments in Individuals with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome

Daniel Jacobson
1   Department of Psychology, Eastern Michigan University, Gulfport, Mississippi, United States
,
Megan Bursch
2   Department of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
,
Renee Lajiness-O'Neill
2   Department of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

07 July 2015

07 May 2016

Publication Date:
20 June 2016 (online)

Abstract

22q11.2 Deletion syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by physiological and psychological symptoms. This study investigated the role of cortisol on the social and cognitive impairments in children with 22q11.2. A total of 11 children with 22q11.2 were assessed for baseline cortisol levels and received broad neuropsychological testing. Results were compared with 11 controls. Children with 22q11.2 had significantly higher cortisol levels. A significant negative correlation was observed between the general memory and attention/concentration indices of the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, 2nd edition and cortisol concentrations in the control population. These data provide evidence of a possible causal mechanism that underlies social impairments in stress disorders.

 
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