Missing DNA Sheds Light on Roots of Schizophrenia

Scientists disocover 3 genetic hot spots
By Dustin Lushing,  Newser Staff
Posted Jul 30, 2008 6:01 PM CDT
Missing DNA Sheds Light on Roots of Schizophrenia
A global team of scientists has discovered three locations in the human genome where missing chunks of DNA may increase the chances of a child developing schizophrenia up to ten times.   (Index Stock)

Missing chunks of DNA increase a child's chance of developing schizophrenia by up to 10 times, say to two major international studies. Scientists are calling the data from more than 3,000 schizophrenia patients a huge step toward finding the genetic source of the disease, which could ultimately help doctors improve diagnosis and treatment, the Boston Globe reports.

"These papers represent the first rock-solid foundation knowledge of what can cause schizophrenia," said one researcher. (More schizophrenia stories.)

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