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Free keywords:
synaesthesia, synesthesia, synaesthesia-genetics
Abstract:
The first report of families with multiple synaesthetes dates to 1883; however, more than 130 years later, the genetic basis for the phenomenon remains unknown. Our synaesthesia genetics research program addresses this problem using two parallel approaches. To discover how common genetic variation influences synaesthesia, we are recruiting grapheme-colour synaesthetes to participate in a genome wide association study. Participation involves taking an online synaesthesia test (mpi.nl/synaesthesia), and qualifying participants are asked to provide a saliva sample via postal service. We are more than 50% of the way to our initial recruitment goal, with synaesthetes joining the study from more than 20 countries. On a smaller scale, we are also identifying rare genetic variation associated with synaesthesia by studying families with unusually high numbers of synaesthetes using whole genome sequencing. We will explore candidate genes resulting from these two approaches using multiple bioinformatic approaches, with a focus on the hypothesis that synaesthesia arises from neural hyperconnectivity. These are highly collaborative projects, made possible with help from synaesthesia researchers at several institutions. Those interested in participating or collaborating can contact us at synaesthesia@mpi.nl. Our goal is to provide the synaesthesia research community with firm genetic information that benefits studies across our multidisciplinary field.
