Multivariate genome-wide covariance analyses of literacy, language and working memory skills reveal distinct etiologies

This study investigates the multivariate genomic covariance structures of literacy, phonological awareness, oral language, and phonological working memory (PWM) in UK youth (8–13 years, N = 6453). Findings reveal that all phenotypes share significant underlying genetic variation, but also show substantial trait-specific genetic influences, particularly for oral language and PWM. Multivariate analyses demonstrate concordant genetic and residual trait covariance patterns, except for oral language and literacy/phonological awareness, where strong genetic links contrast with near-zero residual overlap. This suggests differences in etiological mechanisms beyond pleiotropic genetic variants and indicates variation in trait modifiability, even among highly genetically correlated phenotypes.

Chin Yang Shapland, Ellen Verhoef, George Davey Smith, Simon E. Fisher, Brad Verhulst, Philip S. Dale, Beate St Pourcain