Genetic study of gifted individuals reveals individual variation in genetic contribution to intelligence

The present study, conducted by the Genetic Intelligence Project (GIP), investigated the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to the expression of intelligence in individuals with high intelligence quotients (IQ). The sample consisted of 150 volunteers with IQs ranging from 110 to 160, who underwent validated cognitive assessments and genomic analyses. The study aims to determine how the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental influences affects the development of intelligence, taking into account variables such as substance use, neurodivergent conditions (ADHD and autism) and specific behavioral characteristics, such as adaptive perfectionism. Robust methods, including GWAS data, family analyses and genome sequencing, were used to assess how these variables modulate the balance between environment and genetics. This study reinforces the complexity of gene-environment interactions and their importance in the manifestation of intelligence, contributing to the advancement of cognitive genetics.