This is the blog for GW students taking Human Evolutionary Genetics. This site is for posting interesting tidbits on: the patterns and processes of human genetic variation;human origins and migration; molecular adaptations to environment, lifestyle and disease; ancient and forensic DNA analyses; and genealogical reconstructions.

GWHEG figure

GWHEG figure

Friday, April 27, 2018

Non-potluck post: Intelligence and genetics.

The study of intelligence has previously been considered controversial, however, Plomin and von Stumm (2018) state that the scrutiny has had a positive effect on the quality of the research produced. Plomin and von Stumm (2018) suggest the use of genome-wide polygenic scores (GPS), that take into account multiple regions of variation within the genome, are beneficial as an investigative tool in understanding the genetic basis of intelligence. 

The heritability of intelligence is noted by Plomin and von Stumm (2018) to be about 50% based on previous studies, particularly those looking at twins. When specifically looking at SNPs the heritability of intelligence is stated to be around 25%, whereas GPS heritability is stated to be about 10% (Plomin and von Stumm, 2018). It is suggested by Plomin and von Stumm (2018) that the discrepancy between the heritability values for SNPs and GPS could be ameliorated through increasing the GWAS sample size as well as looking at the interaction between genes and the environment amongst other considerations.

It is also noted by Plomin and von Stumm (2018) that this particular area of research has many ethical, legal, and social considerations. Particularly the issues associated with stigmatisation, as seen in the misuse of IQ data in the 1900’s as a way of separating out individuals, as well as the potential use of biological determinism (Plomin and von Stumm, 2018).

Click here to see the article.

Third post from Nature Reviews Genetics.

References
Plomin, R., and von Stumm, S., 2018. The new genetics of intelligence. Nature Reviews Genetics. 19: 148-159.

Victoria Lockwood
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2 comments:

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