Posted by Cam W. on January 31, 2000, at 7:29:12
In reply to The Human Genome Project, posted by Sam on January 31, 2000, at 2:43:01
> Does anyone know if they have made any progress towards identifying genes or defective genes correlating to manic depression and schizophrenia etc.?
Sam - The answer to your question is "sort of". There are many studies coming out on certain types of bipolar disorder having a strong genetic component (eg classical bipolar disorder that responds well to lithium). You have to remember that environment (upbringing, traumas, stressors, etc. also play a large role). In utero viruses have been implicated in some schizophrenias, but then again, if we give very low doses of antipsychotic medication to first degree relatives of some schizophrenics their cogniton improves. Many sites on chromosomes have been "implicated" in these 2 disorders, but nothing has been proven. As always, give them a little more time. - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:20163
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000128/msgs/20171.html