Genes and subtypes of schizophrenia

The complex heterogeneity of schizophrenia renders identification of a specific etiology extremely difficult. Nevertheless, there is strong heritability in affected families, and linkage has been demonstrated at several loci. A recent study has bypassed some of these complexities, with the identification of a gene mutation in some individuals with a specific subtype of schizophrenia, periodic catatonia – and points to new strategies for the analysis of other polygenic neurological disorders.