DNA reveals intelligence differences

Genetic differences between people could account for up to half the variation in individual intelligence, according to a study.

Researchers at Edinburgh University studied two types of intelligence in more than 3500 people from the Capital, Aberdeen, Newcastle and Manchester. The team found that 40 per cent of the variation in knowledge and 51 per cent of the variation in problem-solving skills between individuals could be explained by DNA differences.

The study examined more than half a million genetic markers on each person and is the first to find a genetic contribution by testing people's DNA for variations, but the researchers do not know which genes are the most important in determining intelligence.

Professor Ian Deary, one of the research leaders, said: "These new findings tell us that we have found genetic signals associated with people's intelligence differences."