Cephalosporin belongs to a group of drugs called β-lactam antibiotics. These antibiotics were initially derived from a fungus named Cephalosporium and are used to treat infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
The drug is available as oral pills or intravenous injections.
There are five generations of cephalosporins available, each differing in how effective they treat different bacterial infections.
Both cephalosporin and penicillin are β-lactam antibiotics and have similar structures.
However, they were initially isolated from different kinds of fungal strains and are not the same drugs.
People with penicillin allergies may not react negatively to cephalosporin and can use the drug safely in specific cases.
Cephalosporin is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including the following.
Cephalosporin is usually not the first antibiotic of choice by healthcare providers.
However, in cases where the patient is allergic to penicillin or other antibiotics, cephalosporin is prescribed.
Like other β-lactam antibiotics, cephalosporin acts by preventing the formation of the peptidoglycan layer of the cell walls of the bacteria.
This layer is important for the stability of the cells.
By preventing the formation of the peptidoglycan layer, the bacteria are broken down and killed.
The third-generation cephalosporins cross the blood-brain barrier and hence are used to treat various Central Nervous System (CNS) infections like meningitis.
Some of the fourth-generation cephalosporins also have this ability to cross the BBB.
Some of the common side effects of cephalosporin are mentioned here:
Very rarely, a person may develop Clostridioides Difficile infection on using cephalosporin long-term.
This is a bacterial infection affecting the large intestine and could be life-threatening.
If you develop any of the following symptoms after using cephalosporin, then consult your doctor right away.
Cephalosporin may interact with other drugs and lead to changes in drug efficacy or adverse side effects. Please contact your doctor if you use any of the below drugs along with cephalosporin.
Yes, a small part of the population could be allergic to cephalosporin.
Compared to third and fourth-generation cephalosporins, the first and second-generation have a higher risk of causing allergies.
Symptoms to look for include rashes, hives, and swelling.
The Membrane Spanning 4-Domains A2 gene (MS4A2 gene) provides instructions for producing the High-affinity immunoglobulin epsilon receptor subunit beta protein.
This protein plays a role in allergic responses.
According to a 2012 study, the T allele of the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) rs1441586 is associated with a higher risk of IgE sensitization to cephalosporin in healthcare workers.
This could increase their chances of developing occupational allergic diseases due to cephalosporin exposure.
| Allele | Implications |
| C | Normal risk of developing occupational allergic diseases due to cephalosporin exposure |
| T | Increased risk of developing occupational allergic diseases due to cephalosporin exposure |
Analyze Your Genetic Response to Cephalosporin
Hemolytic Anemia is a condition that destroys Red Blood Cells (RBCs) at a faster rate than they can be made.
Cephalosporins bind themselves to the RBCs to move to the destined location in the body.
The patient’s body sometimes assumes the drug to be harmful and starts producing antibodies against them.
As a result, the immune system may harm the RBCs, leading to hemolysis.
Out of all the cephalosporins, cefotetan and ceftriaxone have a higher risk of causing DIIHA.
If you are on cephalosporins and experience symptoms like paleness/yellowing of the skin, fever, abdominal pain, and dizziness, contact your doctor right away.
Some cephalosporins like cefamandole and cefoperazone may inhibit the action of the aldehyde dehydrogenase enzyme in the body.
This enzyme is responsible for clearing acetaldehyde from the body. As a result, this drug may cause acetaldehyde accumulation, leading to symptoms like facial flushing, vomiting, nausea, and breathing problems.
If you experience these symptoms after using cephalosporin, rush to the nearest ER.
Hypoprothrombinemia is a condition caused by a deficiency of the blood-clotting protein called prothrombin.
People who lack vitamin K may develop hypoprothrombinemia and may experience prolonged bleeding.
Some cephalosporins may prevent the functioning of the enzyme called vitamin K epoxide reductase, which is needed to convert other forms of vitamin K into their active form.
As a result, this drug may cause vitamin K deficiency, increasing the risk of developing hypoprothrombinemia.
For people using cephalosporin long-term, frequent monitoring of the vitamin K levels and compensating with supplements will help.
As mentioned earlier, prolonged use of antibiotics like cephalosporins can increase the risk of developing an intestinal condition called pseudomembranous colitis.
This is a bacterial infection that develops in the large intestine.
Antibiotics like cephalosporin may increase the growth of the Clostridioides difficile (C difficile) bacteria in the intestine.
Excess of this bacteria leads to intestinal inflammation and bleeding.
If you experience symptoms like watery stools, abdominal pain, and fever after using cephalosporin, get checked for pseudomembranous colitis infection.
Until a while back, the cross-reactivity of cephalosporin in people with penicillin allergy was assumed to be 10%.
This means about 10% of people with penicillin allergy may show allergic symptoms on using cephalosporin.
However, this number is now assumed to be just 1%, that too only with the first-generation cephalosporins that have similar structures as penicillin.
The risk of cross-reactivity is negligible for third and fourth-generation cephalosporins.
However, if you have a penicillin allergy and are prescribed cephalosporin, then it is safer to keep your doctor informed.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cephalosporin#Third_Generation
https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/cephalosporins.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551517/
https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_cephalexin_keflex/drugs-condition.htm
https://bpac.org.nz/bpj/2011/december/cephalosporins.aspx
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21742459/
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000259.htm
Get Insights On Common Allergies From Your 23andMe, AncestryDNA Raw Data!
Varicose veins are characterized by enlarged, twisted, dilated, and bulged veins. They appear swollen, raised, bluish-black in color.
It can occur in any group of veins close to the body’s surface but is most commonly found in the legs.
Approximately 23% of US adults have varicose veins.
They occur because of improperly functioning, blocked valves that either cause accumulation of blood or blood flow in the wrong direction.
Veins are responsible for carrying blood back to the heart. The veins present in the legs need to carry the blood against gravity to transport it to the heart. Valves prevent the back-flow of the blood, thereby supporting its upward flow. When these valves don’t function well, the blood flows backward and starts to build up. This leads to the formation of varicose veins.
Varicose veins tend to run in families. Heredity is a major risk factor for varicose veins.
PIEZO1 gene is located on chromosome 16. The PIEZO1 gene contains instructions for the production of a pressure-activated channel. This gene is also associated with the structure of blood vessels in the body. Certain types of this gene cause changes in the structure of the veins, which could increase the risk of varicose veins.
rs2911463 in PIEZO1 Gene and Varicose Veins Risk
rs2911463 is an SNP in the PIEZO1 gene. According to the results of a large-scale genetic study on varicose veins, the presence of A allele increases the risk of varicose veins.
Other genes like PPP3R1, SLC12A2, EBF1, HFE, etc., also influence the risk of developing varicose veins.
The wear and tear in the valves increase as you age. As a result, the valves may become dysfunctional and let the blood flow backward. So instead of flowing up to your heart, it goes back to the veins and gets accumulated.
An increase in weight results in additional pressure on the veins, forcing the valves in them to open up. This can contribute to the development of varicose veins.
During pregnancy, the stress on your veins increases because of the extra blood flow to support the developing fetus. Hormonal changes can cause the walls of your veins to relax. Both of these can contribute to varicose veins.
Women are at a higher risk for varicose veins compared to men. This can be attributed to the hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstrual cycle, and hormone treatments.
Certain jobs call for long durations of standing or sitting. This causes blood pooling in veins, which can damage the valves.
Weight lifting using heavier weights can cause strain on the vascular system. This may put bodybuilders at a higher risk for varicose veins.
There are a few ways you can take care of the pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins:
Exercise: Staying active can help maintain your weight and improve the blood circulation in your legs. Walking, cycling, lunges, yoga, and rocking feet are a few simple yet effective exercises that can help.
Compression stockings: These are generally worn on the legs to support the veins and muscles and allow proper blood circulation.
Other tips and tricks
Natural remedies There are a few natural supplements that you can include in your diet to relieve the symptoms and manage pain.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PIEZO1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6490943/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23488298/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that is used to treat signs of depression.
It is also used to treat migraines, chronic headaches, and chronic neuropathic pain (pain due to nerve damage).
TCAs are a class of psychotic medications used to treat mood and depressive disorders.
They are named after their chemical structure which contains three atom rings.
Image: Structure of TCAs
Amitriptyline is sold under the brand names Elavil, Vanatrip, and Endep.
Amitriptyline works by inhibiting the actions of the Norepinephrine Transporter (NET) and the Serotonin Transporter (SERT).
These transporters reuptake (reabsorb) the neurotransmitters once they have performed their activities.
Reuptake is a necessary process to recycle neurotransmitters and control their levels available to the brain. Reuptake also decides how long a neurotransmitter’s signal lasts.
**Neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are signaling molecules that alter the mood.
Inhibiting these transporters ensures delayed reuptake of the neurotransmitters. As a result, the brain experiences increased norepinephrine and serotonin activities.
Studies show that low levels of norepinephrine result in depression. Similarly, serotonin deficiency can play a role in worsening a person’s depressive state.
By ensuring the brain has access to increased levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, amitriptyline helps treat the signs of depression.
Some common side effects of amitriptyline are:
Some of the severe side effects of amitriptyline are:
Amitriptyline may interact with other medications and lead to severe side effects or changes in drug efficacy.
Notify your doctor if you take the below medications along with amitriptyline.
The CYP2D6 gene contains instructions for the production of the Cytochrome P450 2D6 enzyme that plays a vital role in eliminating xenobiotics (chemicals not found naturally in the body).
Likewise, the CYP2C19 gene contains instructions for the production of the Cytochrome P450 2C19 enzyme that helps eliminate xenobiotics from the body.
The CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 enzymes eliminate 25% and 10% of all clinical drugs, respectively.
Amitriptyline is also eliminated from the body using these enzymes.
People carry different versions of the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 - according to the version they carry, they're classified as follows.
| Type of metabolizers | Implications | Suggestions |
| Ultrarapid metabolizers | Amitriptyline is rapidly eliminated from the body, leading to lowered drug efficacy. | The drug may not work effectively. Using an alternative drug that is not eliminated by CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 will help. |
| Normal metabolizers | Amitriptyline is normally eliminated from the body | Amitriptyline can be used effectively for treatment. |
| Intermediate metabolizers | Amitriptyline is eliminated from the body at a slightly lower rate when compared to normal metabolizers. | A 25% reduction in recommended dose is suggested to prevent the risk of an overdose. |
| Poor metabolizers | Amitriptyline is very slowly eliminated from the body, leading to a risk of a drug overdose. | Consider using an alternative drug that is not eliminated by CYP2D6 and CYP2C19. Else, a 50% reduction in the drug dose is recommended. |
A haplotype is a group of gene changes that are inherited together. Star alleles are used to name different haplotypes.
There are more than 100 changes noted in the CYP2D6 gene.
Out of these, the *1, *2, *33, and *35 alleles of the gene are normal functioning alleles associated with normal metabolism.
The *3, *4, *5,*6, *7, *8, *10, *12, *17, *29, and *41 alleles have no function or decreased activity alleles and are associated with poor metabolism.
Individuals who have multiple copies of the normal function alleles experience ultrarapid metabolism.
The CYP2C19 gene also has multiple versions.
The *1 allele is the normal functioning allele associated with normal metabolism, while the *17 allele is associated with ultrarapid metabolism.
The *2 and *3 alleles are no-function alleles and are associated with poor metabolism.
The ABCB1 gene helps produce the ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily B Member 1 protein that transports substances between cells.
It also plays a role in multidrug resistance (a process by which cells develop resistance to clinical drugs).
rs4148740 is a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) in the ABCB1 gene.
When treated with amitriptyline, people with the G allele have an improved chance of depression remission (disappearance or reduction in symptoms) compared to those with the A allele.
| Allele | Implications |
| G | Improved chance of depression remission when treated with amitriptyline |
| A | Regular chance of depression remission when treated with amitriptyline |
Amitriptyline can alter the heart rhythm and lead to irregular and fast heartbeats. This can be dangerous in people who have had recent heart attacks.
If you have had a heart attack or any heart ailment, make sure you talk to your doctor about it.
Studies show that amitriptyline may increase or decrease blood sugar levels and make it challenging to handle diabetes.
If you have diabetes and are on amitriptyline, then make sure you monitor the sugar levels regularly.
Studies show that using TCAs like amitriptyline, when taken during pregnancy, can increase the risk of organ-specific defects in the fetus.
In rare cases, the use of antidepressants may worsen the initial symptoms of depression and mood swings and lead to the development of new symptoms.
Therefore, monitor how you feel while on amitriptyline and notify your doctor right away if you notice mood swings, behavioral issues, or other mental and physical changes.
Amitriptyline overdose may be very dangerous and lead to the below conditions.
If you or someone you know has overdosed on amitriptyline, contact the nearest Emergency Room right away.
Discontinuing antidepressants abruptly can lead to worsening of the initial symptoms and withdrawal symptoms too.
Instead, your doctor will bring down the dosage levels gradually to make the weaning process easier.
Genetic testing can help identify the metabolizer phenotype (ultrarapid, normal, intermediate, or poor).
Planning drug doses based on the phenotype will ensure the drug works better without the risk of overdosing.
Genetic testing can also help understand if a person will respond better to amitriptyline or another alternate medication.
Analyze Your Genetic Response to Amitriptyline
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3131098/
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Amitriptyline
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/tricyclic-antidepressants-tcas
https://www.drugs.com/amitriptyline.html
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682388.html
https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00321
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amitriptyline#Mechanism_of_action
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425165/
Memory is an important part of who we are. From recollecting childhood memories to remembering your grocery list, memory is important in all aspects of our lives. It is defined as the ability to acquire, store, retain, and retrieve information. Various parts of the brain are involved in the complex process of memory.
Memory is not perfect. Memory declines with age. People may sometimes have problems with remembering things or are forgetful at times. There are also certain medical conditions like dementia that can cause problems with memory and lead to memory loss.
There are three major processes involved in memory, namely encoding, storage, and retrieval. Based on what you’ve learned or experienced, the human memory stores the information. This information can be recovered whenever needed.
Broadly, memory is classified into sensory, short-term, and long-term memory.
Sensory Memory
Also called working memory, this is brief storage of information. It lasts for lesser than a second for visual information and a few seconds for auditory information. Sensory information is taken in by the sensory receptors processed by the nervous system and stored very briefly till it's passed onto short-term memory.
When you hold a sparkler, which is a handheld firework, and move it in different patterns, your eyes move along the trail of light. This is an example of sensory memory.
Short-Term Memory
Also known as primary or active memory, it is the information that we are thinking about at present. This lasts for about 20-30 seconds. Short-term memory can be quickly forgotten. From this stage, information is transferred to long-term memory.
When you need to remember a phone number someone just told you or a grocery list, you use your short-term memory.
Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory involves the storage of information for a continuous period of time. Some long-term memories can be recalled easily, while others take longer to remember.
Long-term memory involves recollecting past events, some events that happened years ago. Remembering how to ride a bike or swim requires long-term memory.
Also called Lethologica, this is the inability to remember the right word. This problem occurs when you feel like you have the answer to a question at the tip of your tongue, but you can't remember it.
Smell is a powerful memory trigger. The ability to smell is linked to memory. The olfactory nerve is located close to the hippocampus and the amygdala, the region of the brain responsible for emotion and emotional memory.
A good memory can be a great asset and can help in daily life, in school, or at work. Apart from playing a role in your daily life, memories are also important for your personal life. Your memories and experience can define you as a person. Long-term memories can lead to nostalgia, which is a warm, emotional feeling you have when you come across something familiar.
Memory and learning have a symbiotic relationship. Memory is needed for learning, but through learning, information is stored in one's memory.
Memory also helps you focus. In today's world, there is a lot of technology that tends to distract you. Recalling past events through memory can help you focus and be more disciplined.
Everyday events of life influence one's memory power. Genetics also plays a role in your memory power.
Research shows that genes also play a role in influencing your memory. Genetics can be responsible for some of the differences in memory between individuals. Genetics influence educational attainment, emotional memory, and memory performance.
People with certain genetic types are more likely to have better memory and may exhibit characteristics such as rapid recall of events, be better at remembering names, and more adept at learning new skills/language.
The KIBRA gene carries instructions for the production of kidney and brain expressed protein. This protein is also called WW domain-containing protein 1. Research shows that changes in this gene are linked to memory performance.
rs17070145
rs17070145 is a single nucleotide polymorphism or an SNP in the KIBRA gene. People with the T allele of this SNP are found to have better free recall performance and improved episodic memory, a type of long-term memory compared to those with the CC genotype.
The CLSTN2 gene carries instructions for the production of a protein called Calsyntenin 2. Studies show that changes in this gene are linked to memory performance.
rs6439886
rs6439886 is an SNP in the CLSTN2 gene. People with the T allele were found to have better memory performance.
Age
Memory declines with age.
Sleep
Getting too little sleep or too much sleep can affect your memory power. An adequate amount of sleep is needed to maintain memory.
Mental Health
Stress can affect your memory power. Stress can create problems with short-term memory and retrieving long-term memories. Depression can lead to confusion and memory loss. Anxiety also affects memory power.
Thyroid hormones
Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, which affects your memory. An underactive thyroid can affect your memory span and ability to concentrate. It can lead to forgetfulness. Hyperthyroidism also affects memory and can lead to confusion.
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Some studies show that Vitamin B12 deficiency affects memory power.
Alcohol abuse
Heavy alcohol use can result in memory lapses. You may find it difficult to recollect certain events or the entire night. People with alcohol use disorder may have short-term or long-term memory loss.
Medication
Certain medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medication, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and pain medication, can lead to memory loss and confusion.
Here are some ways to improve your memory.
- Taking note of things or writing them down helps you retain information better.
- Try to remember long lists using mnemonics like abbreviations, acronyms, or even songs and rhymes.
- Getting sufficient sleep is important for maintaining memory power.
- Try to avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol as it can lead to memory problems in the long run.
- Brain training can improve working and short-term memory. Mental workouts may improve memory.
- Regular physical exercise can reduce the risk of cognitive decline with age.
- Studies show that mindfulness meditation can improve brain function and memory.
- Sugary foods, a high-calorie diet, and refined carbs may create problems with memory. Low levels of vitamin D can also cause problems with cognitive function. A balanced diet, including anti-inflammatory foods, fruits, and vegetables, can help maintain memory.
http://science.sciencemag.org/content/314/5798/475/tab-pdf
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326068
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-improve-memory
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-memory-2795006
https://www.verywellmind.com/facts-about-memory-2795359
Leadership is a trait demonstrated by some people who have the inherent tendency to influence people and lead them. It is a complex trait influenced by many factors. As per the famous saying by Bennis and Nanus in 1985 – “Leadership seems to be the marshaling of skills processed by a majority but used by a minority. But, it is something that can be learned by anyone, taught by everyone, and denied to no one.”
Leadership can also be called a ‘process’ by which an individual influences a group of people to achieve a common goal in a more coherent way. Leadership potential is the ability of an individual to take up a leadership role or duty.
Leadership as a phenomenon has been around since the time the beginning of time. Whenever people needed to come together to either solve a problem or make a decision, their ideas, thoughts, and suggestions had to be channeled and coordinated to reach common ground.
What started as simple leadership way back in prehistoric times has evolved into more complex leadership systems and principles. However, what we learn from evolution is that people were born to lead.
There are genetic and non-genetic factors that determine who leads the pack and who follows the lead.
There are more than one ways to identify a good, natural-born leader who was born to lead. Some qualities of a true leader are:
- Empathy
- Courteousness
- Courage
- Compassion
- Integrity
- High levels of energy and stamina
- Tolerance for stress
- High self-confidence
- Risk-taker
- Optimistic
- Adaptability and agility
- Decisive
- Good communicator
It is common to hear the phrase ‘born to lead,’ and research seems to support this. Genetics is said to play a role in determining if one is born to be a leader.
One gene and the very first one that was studied in this regard was the CHRNB3 gene. This gene contains instructions for the production of Neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit beta-3 protein. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, or nAChRs, respond to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
*rs4950 *
rs4950 is a single nucleotide polymorphism or SNP in the CHRNB3 gene. It is associated with the tendency to occupy a leadership role. Individuals with two rs4950 A alleles are proportionally more likely to be in a leadership role compared to those with one or two G alleles.
While leadership potential is influenced by your genes, there are other factors that help people learn and develop leadership traits. Most of these factors come into play very early on in an individual’s life, such as at home and school.
Environment early in life
Individuals who have lived with encouraging families or families that showcase leadership in their homes tend to raise leaders.
Education and hobbies
Individuals who are well-read, well-informed, and mentored by teachers in school have a higher chance of developing leadership qualities and potential.
Problem-solving ability
Individuals who are exposed to problem-solving and taking well-informed decisions early in life tend to develop leadership abilities as they grow up.
Here are a few ways to develop your leadership skills.
- Practice discipline in your professional and personal life by sticking to deadlines and appointments and maintaining a good work-life balance.
- Take up more responsibility and step out of your comfort zone.
- Listen and be ready to follow your teammates.
- Have a bird’s eye view of the situation while keeping track of the nitty-gritty of the projects that you are managing.
- Inspire and encourage others to rise and grow.
- Always be open to learning.
- Empower others and make them independent.
- Face and resolve conflicts.
- Be a good listener.
https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=CHRNB3
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583370/
Maths or mathematical ability can be defined as the mental ability needed to acquire knowledge or skill in mathematics, which includes measurement, properties, and relationships of quantities and sets, using numbers and symbols.
Research shows that the parietal cortex, the top/middle region of the brain, plays a central role in our ability to process numerical information or numerical cognition.
The right parietal region is involved in basic quantity processing.
The left parietal region is involved in precise number processing and numerical operations such as addition and subtraction.
A study published in the Cerebral Cortex journal reported that the left and right hemispheres work together to improve math performance.
The strength of communication between the brain's two hemispheres predicts performance in basic arithmetic problems.
Another study reported that "the strength of communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain predicts performance on basic arithmetic problems.
A widely accepted and most acknowledged theory was put forth by Krutetskii in 1976. He suggested that maths ability includes the following:
A person's ability to do maths balances nature and nurture.
Both genetic and environmental factors can decide your relationship with maths.
Maths ability is considered a complex trait involving neurological and cognitive development as well as education and training.
Some people have a bad relationship with math early on.
Math problems may give them anxiety, and they lack the confidence to attempt complicated math problems.
Others may love math and try complicated problems as a fun challenge.
Maths ability is known to be heritable.
Several genes that play a role in brain development influence the ability to do maths also.
A study published in the PLOS Biology journal identified genetic variations and brain regions that affect maths ability.
The study suggests that genes that influence the early development of the brain's basic quantity processing system might affect maths ability.
The SPOCK1 gene carries instructions for the production of a protein called Testican-1.
This gene is involved in tumor progression and prognosis as well as neurogenesis, which is the process by which new neurons are formed in the brain.
SPOCK1 plays a role in neurodevelopment; hence, changes in this gene affect maths ability.
However, the association between SPOCK1 and math ability was only found in children and not adults.
rs1012694
rs1012694 is a single nucleotide polymorphism or SNP in the SPOCK1 gene.
People with the minor allele, the T allele, are found to have lower mathematical abilities.
rs11743006
rs11743006 is an SNP in the SPOCK1 gene. People with the minor allele, the A allele, are found to have lower mathematical abilities.
Education
Early education can affect how you learn maths and your liking for it.
Teaching methods, teacher's behavior, quality of teaching, motivation, and the concentration of students are found to influence maths ability.
Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a maths learning disability.
Scientists are not sure of the exact cause of this disability.
People with this condition find it difficult to learn number-related concepts, perform accurate maths calculations, reason and solve problems, and perform other basic maths skills.
Other conditions
People with dyslexia and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) find it harder to learn and solve math problems.
A person's motor skills also affect their maths learning ability.
Fine motor skills are essential for the early development of mathematical skills.
People with Alzheimer's also find it difficult to perform simple mathematical calculations as their condition worsens.
Even though genetics partly influences maths skills, you can follow certain methods to improve your ability to solve problems and understand maths better.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3729197/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5290743/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120829103516.htm
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/10/201022144549.htm
https://academic.oup.com/cercor/article/23/9/2127/595267
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130816130353.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health/dyscalculia
