Study Ties Genetic Variations to Schizophrenia

March 31, 2008 | Source: New York Times

A new study has found that rare and previously undetectable genetic variations may significantly increase the risk that a person will develop schizophrenia.

One of the mutations identified in the study, for instance, distorts a protein that is involved in guiding neurons to their proper places during brain development. Another mutation that turned up changes the shape of a molecule that transports glutamate, a chemical that excites neurons and is heavily involved transmitting signals between brain cells.

Experts said the study, while not identifying the cause of the disorder, provided a striking demonstration of how new gene-scanning technology can open a new frontier in the quest to understand the biology of mental disorders.