New study links gene mutation to schizophrenia risk

Results from a newly-published study have provided additional evidence that genetic abnormalities play a key role in the development of schizophrenia.

Research from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have found that people with mutations of the neuronal PAS domain protein 3 gene (NPAS3) are at greater risk of developing schizophrenia or another debilitating mental illnesses.

NPAS3 regulates the development of healthy neurons, especially in the hippocampus – a region of the brain that appears to be affected in schizophrenia – meaning abnormal activity of this gene can have a knock-on effect for brain development and functionality.

Study leader Dr Frederick Nucifora, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said: "Understanding the molecular and biological pathways of schizophrenia is a powerful way to advance the development of treatments that have fewer side effects and work better than the treatments now available."

NHS figures show that around one in 100 people will experience schizophrenia in their lifetime, making it one of the most common serious mental health conditions.