It has long been known that a genetic predisposition exists for schizophrenia, but the mechanism for inheritance and what is inherited remains elusive. Several advances have been made recently in the fields of molecular genetics and psychiatric genetics, as well as politically, which lends optimism to the hope that one or more responsible genes may soon be identified. These will hopefully revolutionize the treatment of this debilitating disorder and lead to preventive measures for those genetically at risk. Curr Opin Psychiatry 12:29-39. (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.