[An international team of 60 researchers], led by Todd Lencz from the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, studied the genes of 35,000 people – measuring the brain function of these participants through tests of learning, memory, and other cognitive function components. They were able to discover new genetic variations related to cognitive ability. “This research provides new clues into how the brain works at the molecular level,” Lencz said.

Interestingly, and for the first time, the COGENT researchers also discovered a molecular genetic overlap between cognitive ability and personality. They found that genetic predispositions towards higher cognitive ability were linked to greater “openness to experience.” In order words, some of the genes that make people more likely to be curious about new ideas and experiences are the same as those that enhance cognitive ability.

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The researchers hope that their findings pave the way for new and better treatments. “Our long-term goal is to identify potential new targets for treatments of cognitive disorders of the brain, such as schizophrenia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),” said Lencz.

The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion, and analysis. Read full, original post: This Genetic Discovery Could Change the Way We Treat Mental Illness