Statistical genetic evidence supports the history-based theory that inbreeding may have played a role in the extinction of the Spanish Habsburg dynasty (1516-1700). This is the conclusion of research reported in an April 15 article in PLoS. The Spanish Habsburg dynasty was characterized by the frequent marrige of close relatives, in such a way that uncle-niece, first cousin, and other consanguineous unions were common. The dynasty ended with the childless death of the physically and mentally disabled Charles II at the age of 39. [PLoS article]
Nine New X-Chromosome Genes Associated with Learning Disabilities
Researchers have identified nine new genes on the X-chromosome that, when mutated, are associated with learning disabilities. “We sequenced 720 out of the approximately 800 known genes on the X chromosome in more than 200 families affected by X-linked learning disabilities,” explained Professor Michael Stratton, from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute. “This is the largest …