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  • Perspective
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The potential and translational application of infant genetic research

Nature Genetics volume 56, pages 1346–1354 (2024)Cite this article

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Abstract

In the current genomic revolution, the infancy life stage is the most neglected. Although clinical genetics recognizes the value of early identification in infancy of rare genetic causes of disorders and delay, common genetic variation is almost completely ignored in research on infant behavioral and neurodevelopmental traits. In this Perspective, we argue for a much-needed surge in research on common genetic variation influencing infant neurodevelopment and behavior, findings that would be relevant for all children. We now see convincing evidence from different research designs to suggest that developmental milestones, skills and behaviors of infants are heritable and thus are suitable candidates for gene-discovery research. We highlight the resources available to the field, including genotyped infant cohorts, and we outline, with recommendations, special considerations needed for infant data. Therefore, infant genetic research has the potential to impact basic science and to affect educational policy, public health and clinical practice.

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Fig. 1: Infant phenotypes listed in the ICF.

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Acknowledgements

This work was funded by the Simons Foundation to A.R. (award ID 724306).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK

    Angelica Ronald

  2. Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Essex, UK

    Anna Gui

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  1. Angelica Ronald
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  2. Anna Gui
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A.R. conceived and designed the experiments and wrote the paper. A.G. conceived and designed the experiments, analyzed data and wrote the paper.

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Correspondence to Angelica Ronald.

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Ronald, A., Gui, A. The potential and translational application of infant genetic research. Nat Genet 56, 1346–1354 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-024-01822-7

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