Zeroing in on the Genetics of Intelligence

• Main Authors: Ruben C. Arslan, Lars Penke
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2015-04-01
• Series: Journal of Intelligence
• Subjects: intelligence; molecular genetics; behavior genetics; evolution
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2079-3200/3/2/41

Despite the high heritability of intelligence in the normal range, molecular genetic studies have so far yielded many null findings. However, large samples and self-imposed stringent standards have prevented false positives and gradually narrowed down where effects can still be expected. Rare variants and mutations of large effect do not appear to play a main role beyond intellectual disability. Common variants can account for about half the heritability of intelligence and show promise that collaborative efforts will identify more causal genetic variants. Gene–gene interactions may explain some of the remainder, but are only starting to be tapped. Evolutionarily, stabilizing selection and selective (near)-neutrality are consistent with the facts known so far.