Overview

• The genome-wide association analysis of 99,776 self-reported stutterers and 1,023,243 controls confirms that stuttering is influenced by inherited genetic factors.
• Researchers pinpointed 48 genes with distinct male and female signatures that may account for the higher persistence of stuttering in men.
• A polygenic risk score derived from male genetic signals accurately predicted stuttering risk in both sexes across independent cohorts.
• Overlap between stuttering risk loci and genes linked to autism, depression and musicality suggests shared neurobiological pathways affecting speech fluency.
• The study sets the stage for detailed molecular investigations and the development of early detection tools and targeted treatments.