Scientists find new gene linked to schizophrenia

  1. Recently,Indian and Australian scientists in a collaborative effort has identified a new gene directly linked to schizophrenia.
  2. This study identified a gene called as NAPRT1.The gene encodes an enzyme involved in vitamin B3 metabolism and is directly linked to schizophrenia.
  3. Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that usually appears in late adolescence or early adulthood.It is characterised by delusions, hallucinations and other cognitive difficulties.
  4. Researchers believe that genetic as well as environmental factors such as exposure to viruses contribute to causation and also life stressors may play a role in the disorder’s onset and course.