Thursday, July 02, 2009

Studies: Small changes in genetic code tied to schizophrenia


New research published in Nature suggests that genes affecting the immune system may be linked to schizophrenia. Above, an illustration of the DNA double helix.


Small genetic changes in brain development, memory and the immune system may trigger schizophrenia, according to three new studies published in the journal Nature. Similar genetic changes have also been tied to depression and bipolar disorder, says Dr. Tom Insel, director of the National Institute of Mental Health. National Public Radio

1 comment:

Mr. Dugong said...

I always find stories like these lacking in detail but it's only because my background is in molecular biology.

That's something I always found interesting is that the general public has a very poor grasp of genetics so reading articles like these may spark public interest, but investigating the article is impossible since most people can't understand the scientific content.

It's one of the impasses of scientific progress, the inability to recruit public oversight.

Promethean Planet

DISCLAIMER

The following is the opinion of the writer and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, or individual. Any view or opinion represented in the blog comments are personal and is accredited to the respective commentor / visitor to this blog. This blogger reserves the right to moderate comment suitability in support of respecting racial, religious and political sensitivities, and in order to protect the rights of each commentor where available.

Pageviews