Genetics of schizophrenia

Abstract

Schizophrenia, which is prevalent in about 1% of the population, has a multifactorial etiology (genetical and environmental components). Epidemiological studies with families, twins and adoptives have shown, for more than eight decades, the importance of the genetics component in the etiology of schizophrenia. Since the 80's, the molecular studies are trying to identify the genes of susceptibility for this disorder and, recently, the genes related to the antipsychotic response (antipsychotics are the drugs used in the treatment of schizophrenia). This paper intends to review the works about the genetics of schizophrenia.