Review outlines brain-focused multi-organ imaging genetics

Imaging genetics has often examined the brain and other organs separately. This review describes an emerging brain-focused, multi-organ approach that combines genetic data with multimodal imaging from large population cohorts. It surveys data resources and analytical methods, including approaches to identify shared genetic signals and investigate possible causal links between imaging traits and brain disorders.

The authors highlight reported connections involving imaging phenotypes across the brain, heart, retina and other organs, and disorders including Alzheimer disease, stroke and schizophrenia. They outline a three-step analytical framework: nominate causal genes, identify organ-enriched network modules, and validate findings across fields. The review also proposes agentic AI co-scientists as potential tools for supporting interdisciplinary discovery.

The article presents a research framework, not a clinical study or practice guideline. Although the authors describe possible clinical translation beyond organ-specific care, the review does not establish specific diagnostic or treatment changes. Genetic associations and proposed causal links require further validation before they can guide individual patient care.