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 preprint out in bioRxiv!
Check out our latest work led by Judith looking at the heritability of hand, foot and hand preference out in bioRxiv. For a quick summary, Judith has posted on Twitter a great explainer of the paper.
New Paper
The preprint reporting the role of a rare variant in the ATP2C2 gene in language disorders is out in Human Molecular Genetics. Work led by Angela and resulting from a multidisciplinary and international collaboration.
New paper
Our new paper exploring possible links between handedness and mathematical abilities is out in Laterality. A free version is available here.
Wellcome Krzysztof!
Today we welcome Krzys joining us for his PhD, a project funded by Medical Research Scotland in collaboration with Canon Medical Research Europe
Saying farewell
This week we are saying goodbye to Rebeca and Angela. Rebeca did her PhD and post-doc with us while Angela joined the group on a visiting scholarship and then stayed first as research assistant and then as PhD student. It does feel like the end of an era! We are sad...
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