New genetic variations linked to educational attainment: Genetic overlap between cognitive ability and longevity

Researchers from the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research have recently discovered a link between genetic variations and a person's cognitive ability. An international team of 65 scientists led by Dr. Lencz led the largest peer-reviewed study of its kind and analyzed the genomes of over 400,000 individuals. These individuals took neuropsychological tests to measure their brain function and cognitive ability. By profiling the ability of these individuals, the researchers discovered a genetic predisposition in certain individuals towards higher cognitive ability and longer lifespan. Dr. Lencz explained that this genetic information has the potential to be used to develop targeted treatments for cognitive and memory disorders. 

These findings were released two days ago and it is amazing that these researchers performed such a widespread study on the genomes of a large population. This genetic information is beneficial in the development in the treatment for cognitive and memory disorders. It can be used to produce and manufacture new drugs such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. While there are many drugs currently available to treat these disorders, novel treatments can be introduced that are more effective. 

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/11/171128123356.htm

https://www.northwell.edu/about/news/press-releases/feinstein-institute-researchers-identify-new-genes-associated-cognitive-ability

Neanderthals made their own jewelry, new method confirms

Neanderthals are the closest, extinct relatives to modern humans. They are either a species or a sub-species of man who were prevalent before their physical and intellectual development into Homo sapiens. Neanderthals are considered to be the first people to make tools and control fire. A new study shows that Neanderthals made their own jewelry. Archaeologists found bone tools, fossils, and make-shift necklaces in the Grotte du Renne cave in France. Scientists were unable to use DNA to link the Neanderthals to the artifacts, so they used a new method involving proteins to identify the fragments. This method delved into the new and growing field of paleo-proteomics.

Neanderthal fragments found in the Grotte du Renne cave

By examining the proteins, researchers were able to specifically compare the chemical composition of collagen in the artifacts and fossils to the collagen produced by modern people and Neanderthals. Neanderthal collagen contained a different amino acid than modern human collagen. The researchers also sequenced the mitochondrial DNA. Not only did they see that the ancestry was Neanderthal but also they noted that the fragments contained high levels of nitrogen isotopes, associated with breast-feeding. This led the team to conclude that some of the Neanderthals were infants. Through radiocarbon dating, the fragments were able to be chronologically linked with the tools and jewelry found nearby. 

This study demonstrates that Neanderthals had the ability to make their own tools and jewelry, but it also allows for more questions. Modern humans may have possibly had a social and genetic influence on Neanderthals. Through mating and socialization with Homo sapiens, the Neanderthals may have obtained enhanced cognitive abilities. I believe this is a great start to researching if enhanced cognitive skills have a genetic basis. By learning about our past and our history, we can learn more about our present selves and our future. 

Link between autism genes and higher intelligence

Researchers have found evidence linking genetic factors associated with autism to better cognitive ability in people who do not have the condition. They say that although 70% of people with autism have an intellectual disability, some people have average, or even higher than average non-verbal intelligence. Autism causes language and speech disabilities, but non verbal intelligence includes more hands on skills and problem solving that needs little to no use of language.

Researchers at the university of Edinburgh and Queensland tested 10,000 people for cognitive ability and analyzed their DNA. They found that the people who never developed autism, but carried traits linked to the disability, scored higher on cognitive tests.

Researchers did the same tests on 921 adolescents who were part of the Brisbane Adolescent Twin Study, and found further evidence. Dr. Toni-Kim Clarke, of the University of Edinburgh's Division of Psychiatry, who led the study, said: "Our findings show that genetic variation which increases risk for autism is associated with better cognitive ability in non-autistic individuals. As we begin to understand how genetic variants associated with autism impact brain function, we may begin to further understand the nature of autistic intelligence."

I found this article interesting because even though people associate autism with needing extra cognitive help and more attention, it shows that some are actually very intelligent but just can't express it verbally. I also found it interesting how people who carried genes that were related to autism scored higher on average on cognitive tests.



Original Article