First Genes Tied to Stuttering

Researchers have identified 3 genes as a source of stuttering. The speech disorder can stem from a glitch in cell metabolism, the results suggest, which may point to new approaches for treatment.

People who stutter repeat or prolong sounds, syllables or words, disrupting the normal flow of speech. Stuttering can severely hinder communication and a person's quality of life. Most children who stutter later outgrow it, but many don't. About 1% of adults stutter worldwide. Although there's currently no cure, a variety of treatments are available.