Study links brain structure, genetics to intelligence
Genetics may influence intelligence through brain structure, study finds.
Why it matters
- Identifies a biological link between genetics and intelligence.
- Highlights specific brain structures (neurite density) involved in cognitive ability.
By the numbers
- Over 500 participants, mostly young, educated adults.
- Higher genetic scores linked to higher neurite density in 28 of 64 white matter tracts.
- Neurite density in 18 tracts directly associated with higher intelligence scores.
The big picture
- Neurite density, not myelination or orientation, is key in linking genetics to intelligence.
- Findings suggest parallel information processing may enhance cognitive performance.
What they're saying
- Skepticism about environmental variables and definition of intelligence.
- Concerns about ethical implications of genetic-intelligence links.
Caveats
- Sample mostly young, educated adults; may not generalize to broader population.
- Imaging techniques provide estimates, not direct measures, of brain microstructure.
What’s next
- Replication studies needed to confirm findings.
- Further research with more diverse genetic data to account for more cognitive differences.