Unravelling the genome: a review of molecular genetic research in schizophrenia

Background Schizophrenia is a common and complex mental illness that affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. Despite intensive research over the years, the aetiology and pathogenesis of schizophrenia is poorly understood. However, it has long been recognised that schizophrenia is highly familial suggesting a possible genetic aetiology. Aim To review recent molecular genetic research in schizophrenia. Methods Medline and Embase search. Results Over the past decade, with the completion of the Human Genome Project, molecular genetic research has now identified a number of genes that are very likely to predispose to schizophrenia. Conclusion This article discusses the methodologies that have been used to identify schizophrenia susceptibility genes and provides a review of recently identified genes thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of this illness.