Schizophrenia | 05 Jul 2019

Indian and Australian scientists have identified a new gene directly linked to Schizophrenia.

• Their study found a gene called NAPRT1, that encodes an enzyme involved in vitamin B3 metabolism, in a large genomic dataset of schizophrenia patients.
• The study has predominantly been done in populations with European ancestry.

Schizophrenia

• A mental disorder: It is a severe mental disorder, characterized by profound disruptions in thinking, affecting language, perception, and the sense of self. It affects more than 21 million people worldwide.
• Cause: Researchers believe that genetic as well as environmental factors such as exposure to viruses contribute to causation, and also life stressors may play a role in the disorder’s onset and course.
• Onset: It typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood.
• Impact: Hallucinations, delusions, reduced speaking, reduced ability to understand information and decision making, trouble in focusing or paying attention etc.
• Schizophrenia is a treatable disorder. Therapy and support can help people learn social skills, cope with stress, identify early warning signs of relapse and prolong periods of remission.