Schizophrenia gene splits scientists

German scientists at the University of Wurzburg believe that they have found the gene responsible for an inherited form of schizophrenia. There have been many previous claims about genes linked to schizophrenia and other behavioural disorders, but this is believed to be the first genuine genetic basis to the disease. It is hoped that the discovery might allow new treatments and tests to be developed.

Neuroscientist Klaus-Peter Lesch said that the gene was identified by studying three generations of an extended German family in which many members suffered from catatonic schizophrenia, an uncommon version of the disease which is characterised by extreme physical effects. It is thought that the gene, found on chromosome 22, may be involved in transmitting nerve impulses in and to the brain. Mutations in the gene are thought to cause abnormalities in these functions which result in symptoms associated with schizophrenia such as hallucinations, delusions and disrupted motor functions.

The German team thinks that there may be as many as 20 different genes involved in schizophrenia. But other non-genetic factors, such as viral infections during pregnancy, are probably involved.

DeCODE genetics of Iceland has dismissed the German researchers' claim. Karl Stefansson, president of deCODE, says that it is not the first such gene to be discovered, although it is the first to be published. DeCODE announced last October that they had isolated the first gene that played an important role in schizophrenia, but the research has yet to be published.

Meanwhile, the Nuffield Council on Bioethics has launched a consultation exercise in order to determine public attitudes to research into possible links between genes and behaviour, obesity, homosexuality and intelligence. Concerns have been expressed that the findings of such research may lead to stigmatisation and discrimination.