NEUROGENETICS
Silvia Paracchini Research GroupSilvia Paracchini
We are studying the genetic basis of complex cognitive and behavioural phenotypes. In particular we focus on the biology of dyslexia, a specific impairment in learning to read which is caused in large part by genetic factors. We are also interested in cognitive traits related to dyslexia such as general reading and language abilities.
More recently we have become interested in handedness and in a complex link between dyslexia and laterality. We are using large scale screening involving genome-wide and functional genomics approaches to identify candidate genes or loci underlying these phenotypes. In parallel we are developing functional assays to understand the biological mechanisms that mediate genetic differences to phenotypic variation.
Recent news
New Consortium Papers
After years of hard work from international and cross-disciplinary research teams, we are happy to see two papers from the GenLang Consortium published in recent weeks. The studies report the GWAS results for reading/literacy measures and for dyslexia. Read more about...
PhD opportunity
A PhD project is available in our lab as part of the Multimorbidity DTP program. This scheme is open to health professionals registered in the UK. Get in touch if interested. More information can be found here...
New preprint
Check out the last work led by Judith on the genetics of vision acuity and exploring the links between sensory and cognitive function https://psyarxiv.com/mnrdu/
Back on the road
First in-person meeting abroad since the pandemic! Silvia gave a seminar at CBM in Madrid, hosted by Dr Claudio Toma, where she had the opportunity to discuss projects and potential collaborations.
New preprint!
Our study invesitgating the link between dyslexia and language impairment is out in preprint https://psyarxiv.com/74jsd . A collaboration led by Filippo and made possible thanks to our GenLang partners.
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