Variants of the KIAA0319 gene have been associated with developmental dyslexia.[7][8] Reading disability, or dyslexia, is a major social, educational and mental health problem. In spite of average intelligence and adequate educational opportunities, 5 to 10% of school children have substantial reading deficits. Twin and family studies have shown a substantial genetic component to this disorder, with heritable variation estimated at 50 to 70%.[5]
The KIAA0319 protein is expressed on the cell membrane and may be involved in neuronal migration. Furthermore, KIAA0319 follows a clathrin-mediated endocytic pathway.[11]
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