Functional gene group analysis indicates no role for heterotrimeric G proteins in cognitive ability

PLoS One. 2014 Mar 13;9(3):e91690. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091690. eCollection 2014.

Abstract

Previous functional gene group analyses implicated common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in heterotrimeric G protein coding genes as being associated with differences in human intelligence. Here, we sought to replicate this finding using five independent cohorts of older adults including current IQ and childhood IQ, and using both gene- and SNP-based analytic strategies. No significant associations were found between variation in heterotrimeric G protein genes and intelligence in any cohort at either of the two time points. These results indicate that, whereas G protein systems are important in cognition, common genetic variation in these genes is unlikely to be a substantial influence on human intelligence differences.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cognition*
  • Female
  • Genetic Association Studies*
  • Heterotrimeric GTP-Binding Proteins / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Intelligence / genetics*
  • Intelligence Tests
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide

Substances

  • Heterotrimeric GTP-Binding Proteins