Gene for left-handedness is found
Scientists have discovered the first gene which appears to increase the odds of being left-handed.
the first gene which appears to increase the odds of being left-handed.
The Oxford University-led team believe carrying the gene may also slightly raise the risk of developing psychotic mental illness such as schizophrenia.
The gene, LRRTM1, appears to play a key role in controlling which parts of the brain take control of specific functions, such as speech and emotion.
The brain is set up in an asymmetrical way.
In right-handed people the left side of the brain usually controls speech and language, and the right side controls emotions.
However, in left-handed people the opposite is often true, and the researchers believe the LRRTM1 gene is responsible for this flip.
They also believe people with the LRRTM1 gene may have a raised risk of schizophrenia, a condition often linked to unusual balances of brain function.
clipped from: news.bbc.co.uk 