Gene–Environment Interactions in the Pathogenesis of Obsessive–Compulsive Symptoms in Schizophrenia

Abstract

It is well known that a significantly higher rate of obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCSs) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is demonstrated in schizophrenia patients compared to the general population. As genetic factors play a major role in the development of both schizophrenia and OCD, the mechanism underlying their link and combination could also be elucidated through genetic studies. Until now, only a limited number of genetic studies have been performed on OCSs or comorbid OCD in schizophrenia. Recently, pharmacogenetic studies generated stimulating findings suggesting the role of glutamatergic genes in the development of second-generation antipsychotics-induced OCSs. They seem to be a relatively homogeneous phenotype having a unique environmental triggering factor (the drug). Investigation of this phenotype would be an important starting point, which can be extended to further genetic studies targeting a broader range of OCSs in schizophrenia. More clinical attention and research efforts are needed on various types of comorbid OCSs or OCD developing in the course of schizophrenia. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)