Reading ability gene is identified
A new gene that is linked to reading ability and dyslexia has been identified which could improve treatment for millions.
What is this dyslexia gene?
A new study of 6,000 British kids aged 7-9 have found this gene, called KIAA0319, is linked to reading ability and is thought to be behind dyslexia.
So how many people carry this gene?
It's thought that 15% of the population carry KIAA0319, which means that scientists think that it could also explain poor reading skills in people who haven't been identified as dyslexic.
Why is this so important?
Dyslexia is notoriously difficult to diagnose and scientists hope that if the gene is identified in young children, then it will make the condition far easier to deal with.
How does dyslexia affect people?
Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that affects someone's ability to read, write and spell but it doesn't have any relation to their intelligence. It's now widely accepted that people are born with dyslexia and it's passed on through families. If one parent is dyslexic, there's a 50% chance that their children will inherit it too.
What do the experts say?
Professor Margaret Snowling from the British Dyslexia Association said: 'The finding on a gene associated with reading ability in the general population, as well as in dyslexia is in line with our observation that there are degrees of dyslexia from mild to severe.'
More help and advice
- Read more about dyslexia
- Tips on spotting if your child is dyslexic
- Read how Sally has coped with her dyslexia
- How to deal with teachers
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