This SNP has a very significant impact on intelligence. It’s rare that a single SNP can explain 2-5% of the variance in general intelligence, given that biology is a large symphony of genes, epigenetics, microbiomes, etc… The good news is that there are hacks around this SNP.
Simple Summary
The SCN2A gene encodes a protein (the α2 subunit of voltage-gated type II sodium channels) that helps neuronal firing throughout the brain [1].
If this gene is more active, it results in more firing between important brain regions involved in higher cognitive function. This results in better informational processing [1].
The brain regions involved are key regions supporting a broad range of cognitive processes including attention, working memory, conflict detection, and behavioral control [2].
Mutations in SCN2A is implicated in disorders such as autism and schizophrenia [3].
Advanced Summary
The SCN2A gene encodes the α2 subunit of voltage-gated type II sodium channels, which contribute to the generation and propagation of action potentials throughout the brain [1].
The α2 subunit encoded by SCN2A (Nav1.2) specifically mediates the conformational change of sodium channels based on voltage differences across cell membranes [4].
Studies in mice [5] and humans [6] have linked mutations in SCN2A with abnormal electrical activity in the form of epileptic seizures [7].
Furthermore, antiepileptic drugs that inhibit Nav1.2 activity (e.g., topiramate) are associated with a diminished intellectual function.
Mutations in SCN2A is implicated in disorders such as autism and schizophrenia, where impaired cognitive performance is often observed [3].
This gene increases the capacity for information processing between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, which support higher cognitive functions [1].
This gene may contribute to the development of cortical and hippocampal circuits [8].
The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex are key nodes supporting a broad range of cognitive processes including attention, working memory, conflict detection, and behavioral control [1].
The voltage-gated type II sodium channels process sensory inputs, including visual processing and/or disorders characterized by visual deficits [1].
This is thought to be mediated by the communication between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the middle occipital gyrus [1].
SCN2A SNPs
SelfDecode has a few SNPs in the SCN2A gene:
You need to sign up to SelfDecode to see your SNPs.
The Basic Fix
If you have the SCN2A gene, that results in lower intelligence and you need to take a GSK3 beta inhibitor.
GSK3 inhibitors significantly increase the current of voltage-gated sodium (Na(v)) channels [9], which is lower in certain variations of the gene [1].
See my list of GSK3 beta inhibitors.
Sigma-1 receptor activators directly Inhibit NaV1.2/1.4 Channels [10].
Pregnenolone and DHEA are such activators, while progesterone is a blocker of this receptor [11]. This means you should be careful about pregnenolone and DHEA supplements, but you should explore Progesterone. On the other hand, Pregnenolone readily converts to progesterone.
Not advised: Beryllium (potent) [12], Mercury (potent) [12], Tungstate [12].
