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Polygenic scores, and the genome-wide association studies they derive from, will have difficulty identifying genes that predispose one to develop a social behavioral trait
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 11 September 2023
Abstract
Polygenic scores (PGSs) have several limitations. They are confounded with environmental effects on behavior and cannot be used to study how mutations affect brain function and behavior. For this, mutations with large effects, which often arise in only one geographical population are needed. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs), commonly used for identifying mutations, have difficulty detecting these mutations. A strategy that overcomes this challenge is discussed.
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Target article
Challenging the utility of polygenic scores for social science: Environmental confounding, downward causation, and unknown biology
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Author response
Polygenic scores for social science: Clarification, consensus, and controversy