Aging of persons with neurodevelopmental disabilities

Guest editorial: Overview, implications, and directions of twin design research exploring neurodevelopmental conditions

“…Previous longitudinal studies on twins exploring topics related to neurodevelopment have been able to further confirm or disconfirm relationships between outcomes of interest and genetic versus environmental influences on neurodevelopment (Christensen et al., 2021 ; Hallett et al., 2010 ; Taylor et al., 2015 ); however, these studies examined individuals over a relatively short time frame (e.g., 3–8 years). Longitudinal studies spanning longer periods of time are needed as individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions are now living longer than before and impact of these conditions on the aging process and quality of life has only minimally been explored to date (Anker et al., 2020 ). We also have expanded data the RATSS collection to include measures for neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions and biosamples (i.e., blood, saliva, hair) from biological parents and we collect a family pedigree.…”