Gene and brain mapping of language and reading skills V1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Integrated gene and brain mapping of language and reading abilities.
IRAS ID
272886
Contact name
Michelle Luciano
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, days
Research summary
Our study is funded by the BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council). We want to understand what causes the wide variety of reading and language skills found within populations. These are essential skills that affect social and educational achievement. Our study will integrate findings from genetic, epigenetic (related to whether genes are fully expressed or not) and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures which we will analyse with performance on reading and language tests. An existing cohort of adults, Generation Scotland: Scottish Family Health Study (GS:SFHS), already have available genetic, epigenetic and brain MRI data and have consented to be re-contacted for further study participation. In the present research, we will collect language and reading data using trained research assistants who will test participants (with normal or corrected hearing) over the phone on reading and language (including short term memory) tests. Some other questions about reading/language difficulties early in life and lifetime book reading will also be asked. The phone interview should take no longer than 25 minutes, with time primarily dependent on a person's reading speed. This research will accelerate the discovery of genetic and epigenetic processes influencing the differences we see between people in their language and reading function. There are presently no large studies of this kind. Furthermore, it will provide the essential link between genes, brain anatomy and connectivity, and literacy behaviour. These uniquely human traits influence important life outcomes (most notably socio-economic status, which is related to health) and a clear understanding of their biological roots will enable future improvements to people's learning and quality of life.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 02
REC reference
19/SS/0127
Date of REC Opinion
30 Dec 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion