Informative genetic markers of predisposition to the formation of high-level intelligence

This study is devoted to investigating the association of intelligence with a person’s genotype. Comparative psychological and molecular genetic testing was carried out on a representative sample of Belarusian population representatives numbering 746 people. Intelligence quotient (IQ) was determined using D. Wechsler’s test. It was established that the distribution of general intelligence values among the Belarusian population representatives was shifted towards higher results. The persons were divided into low and high IQ groups using the quartile method. The association of intelligence level with genotype was determined using a panel of genetic markers consisting of 18 gene polymorphic variants of neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity and neurotransmitter systems. Molecular genetic testing was carried out using real-time PCR. To automate a search for informative gene combinations associated with cognitive abilities, we used a special computer program that we had previously developed, taking into account the gene interaction effects. 15 most informative combinations of polymorphic gene variants associated with a high intelligence level were identified. These gene variants can be used to assess a genetic predisposition to the formation of high-level intelligence, which will allow assessing the abilities of candidates for extreme activities.

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