Mom's nose, dad's mind? Scientists have discovered who we inherit our intelligence from

Is your brilliance a gift of fate, a result of good upbringing, or perhaps... a genetic legacy? The latest research dispels illusions and reveals the fascinating puzzle that makes up human intelligence.

The subject of inheriting intelligence has stirred up emotions for years – from family dinner table conversations to serious academic debates. After all, who wouldn’t want to know from whom they inherited their talent for quickly connecting facts or their natural gift for analyzing reality? The latest research published in the prestigious “Nature Genetics” sheds new light on this mystery. Scientists analyzed the DNA of over 1.3 million people and identified as many as 1,271 genetic variants associated with intelligence and educational success . This is the largest study of its kind in history.

But beware – there is no such thing as a “genius gene”. Each of these variants works subtly, almost intangibly, and the final result depends on their joint action and – surprisingly – on the environment in which the child develops.

However, if you are counting on a clear answer as to who passes on their intellectual abilities to a child – mom or dad – the matter is not simple. Although many scientists agree with the theory that intelligence is more strongly linked to genes passed on by the mother, this does not mean that fathers are left on the sidelines.

Mothers have two X chromosomes , while fathers only have one. It is on the X chromosome that the genes responsible for cognitive abilities are located , which may give women an advantage in passing on these traits. This is confirmed by research from a team from the Medical Research Council in Glasgow - children are more likely to inherit an IQ level consistent with the level of intelligence of their mother.

But that's not all. Animal models show that paternal genes show greater activity in parts of the brain responsible for emotions, while maternal genes show greater activity in regions related to memory and thinking. Sound like a perfect match? Yes, it is.

The final shape of intellect, however, does not depend solely on DNA. As Professor Robert Plomin of King's College London emphasizes, intelligence is not just a number on an IQ test - it is the ability to learn, analyze, adapt . And although genes account for 50 to 80 percent of the differences between individuals, the rest must be attributed to what surrounds us.

It all starts in the womb: diet, stress, exposure to toxins. Then comes the quality of emotional relationships, the level of intellectual stimulation, education, and even how many books are within reach of little hands. The father also plays a significant role with his presence, commitment, and approach to learning.

In a world where the value of intellect is valued as highly as a luxury watch or the latest electric SUV, knowing where wisdom comes from takes on a whole new dimension. Because while genes set the framework, it is love, stimulation and environment that fill it with content. So – in your case, was it mom, dad or maybe both? One thing is for sure: intellect is the most prestigious investment you can pass on.