Genetic findings in schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is characterized by a great heterogeneity of symptoms and functional deficits, especially of cognition. Different phenotypes are thought to result from the interaction of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Pathophysiological models range from the dopamine and glutamate hypotheses to the hypothesis of free radicals and the hypotheses of neurodevelopment as opposed to neurodegeneration. In addition to the neurobiological approaches, linkage studies and subsequent finemappings deliver evidence with regard to genes potentially involved in schizophrenia. The most important candidate genes, such as dysbindin (DTNBP1), neuregulin (NRG1) and DISC-1 (disrupted-in schizophrenia-1), are thought to influence neurotransmission, as well as the development and maintenance of the structure of neuronal networks. The list of potential candidates includes numerous other genes as well. In conclusion, multiple genetic, neurobiological, and exogenous factors are assumed to interact in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia.