Novel rare variations in genes that regulate developmental change in N-methyl- d -aspartate receptor in patients with schizophrenia

Mutations in genes that regulate development of key brain receptors may play a role in the onset of schizophrenia. In adolescence, genetic switches trigger reorganization of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR), which are important in learning and memory. This reorganization is crucial for brain maturation. Schizophrenia often develops in adolescence, and accumulating evidence indicates that impaired NMDAR function may trigger its onset. Akane Yoshikawa at the University of Tokyo and co-workers sequenced the genes that trigger NMDAR reorganization in patients with schizophrenia and in healthy individuals. The researchers identified four mutations that were found in one of these genes in patients with schizophrenia but not in healthy controls. More data are needed to confirm the results. The researchers recommend further investigation of these genes in larger populations in hopes of identifying genetic changes underlying onset of schizophrenia.