Neuregulin-1 Gene Abnormality Linked To Schizophrenia

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Main Category: Schizophrenia
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry;  Mental Health
Article Date: 20 Apr 2006 - 0:00 PDT

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Scientists have linked a large gene, called Neuregulin-1, which when abnormal can disrupt brain function and development and significantly raise the risk of schizophrenia.

You can read about this study in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Team leader, Gerald Fischbach, Columbia University, said "This is a very interesting study." He added that this discovery could pave the way to effective treatment for people with schizophrenia.

Scientists compared autopsy brain samples of 48 people with schizophrenia and 80 without. According to their findings, the brains of people with schizophrenia have 30% more Neurelgulin-1 in parts of the brain that are involved in cognitive function (prefrontal cortex and hippocampus).

It is not currently possible to measure Neurelgulin-1 levels in living people. The researchers said this needs to be achieved so that people can be helped more.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe, and disabling brain disorder that affects about 1 percent of people all over the world. People with schizophrenia sometimes hear voices others don't hear, believe that others are broadcasting their thoughts to the world, or become convinced that others are plotting to harm them. These experiences can make them fearful and withdrawn and cause difficulties when they try to have relationships with others. More….

Signs & Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Symptoms usually develop in men in their late teens or early twenties and women in the twenties and thirties, but in rare cases, can appear in childhood. They can include hallucinations, delusions, disordered thinking, movement disorders, flat affect, social withdrawal, and cognitive deficits. More…

Treatment for Schizophrenia

This is a time of hope for people with schizophrenia. Although the causes of the disease have not yet been determined, current treatments can eliminate many of the symptoms and allow people with schizophrenia to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community. More…

Written by: Christian Nordqvist
Editor: Medical News Today
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today

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