Researchers have identified 26 new genes linked to intellectual disability which is characterised by significant limitations in learning.
More than one in 100 children worldwide is affected by intellectual disability. Frequently, intellectual disability also accompanies symptoms of autism spectrum disorders, and many genes have been found to be shared by the two illnesses.
The study, published online in the journal molecular psychiatry, could eventually lead to personalised treatments for affected individuals, and also add to our growing knowledge of brain development and functioning. “Knowing the genes involved is a big step forward, but understanding how they function is also crucial before we can start planning treatments or even cures,” said team leader john vincent from the centre for addiction and mental health in toronto, canada.
The study, which was jointly led with muhammad ayub of queen’s university in canada, involved 192 families from pakistan and iran with more than one affected family member.
Intellectual disability is frequently caused by recessive genes, meaning that an affected child gets a defective copy of the gene from each parent. (Ians)
