Scientists have identified hundreds of new genes associated with intelligence , a joint research project from the University of Queensland ’ s Brain Institute and its partners in the Netherlands revealed on Tuesday.
The authors said as well as the 939 new “smart genes’’ were discovered , adding that in another study that they had identified over 500 genes associated with neuroticism, an important risk factor for depression and schizophrenia .
“ These results are a major step forward in understanding the neurobiology of cognitive function as well as genetically related neurological and psychiatric disorders , ’’ the study said .
More than 250 , 000 individuals were tested for their genetic data and measurements of intelligence, while the study into neuroticism took data from almost half a million respondents .
Together these studies provide new insights into the neurobiology and genetics of cognition .
According to researchers, the findings suggest that our brains have distinct genetic gene clusters responsible for the effects of depression and worry .
Scientists also believe the newly - found “smart genes” may help protect against Alzheimer’ s disease and conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD ).
(Xinhua /NAN )
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