Submitted by A.S. Quenault on Tue, 05/05/2026 - 13:32
Researchers at the MRC Biostatistics Unit and the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Cambridge have made an exciting discovery about how our genes affect thinking skills.
Published in Nature Communications, the study reveals how our genes influence skills we use every day to plan, organise and make decisions, even for simple tasks like making a cup of tea.
The researchers looked at the DNA of thousands of people and tested their thinking skills. They found that certain genes and parts of the brain are linked to how well we plan, focus, and solve problems.
Thinking skills, also called executive function, are important for daily life. They can be affected in conditions like dementia or other brain problems. Until now, scientists knew very little about the genes that control these skills.
To investigate, the team combined data from two major studies. The first, the UK Biobank, is a huge UK-wide project with health and DNA information from half a million volunteers. Participants provide medical history, lifestyle details, and take tests that help scientists see how genes affect health and thinking. The second, the Genes and Cognition study, is run by the NIHR BioResource. Participants take cognitive or thinking tests and provide DNA samples, helping researchers link genes to how our brains plan, focus, and solve problems. Together, these studies give a fascinating picture of how our genes influence thinking.
The study showed that thinking skills may rely on different parts of the brain and the different role of genes at different ages.
Interestingly, the same genes that influence thinking speed may also affect motivation and self-control, suggesting that people who naturally think more slowly might have better motivation and self-control. Scientists call this the “slow-but-successful” model, taking a little more time can sometimes help people succeed in life.
The researchers also found clues about how our brains stay healthy. They discovered some tiny “switches” on our DNA called, histone modifications, and some proteins called butyrophilins that help control how brain cells work. These might keep thinking skills strong as we get older.
Professor Patrick Chinnery from the Department of Clinical Neurosciences and the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit - both at the University of Cambridge, and senior author of the paper said:
“The NIHR BioResource Genes and Cognition study is helping us to understand how our brains age. It is uniquely placed to help us treat and prevent dementia.”
Dr Md Shafiqur Rahman from the MRC Biostatistics Unit and the Department of Clinical Neurosciences - both at the University of Cambridge, and first author of the paper said:
“It’s amazing to see how NIHR BioResource Genes and Cognition study complements the UK Biobank. I’m especially intrigued by the finding that suggests slower thinking can be balanced by motivation, supporting real world success.”
Read the full paper: Genetic landscape of adult executive function reveals a cell-type-specific developmental origin | Nature Communications
With thanks to Alzheimer’s Society for supporting this study.