The journal Molecular Psychiatry reported that a study conducted at the Institute of Genetics at the University of Leipzig in Germany revealed a mutation in a single gene that may be a direct cause of mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and depression. The study explained that this mutation may arise from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors affecting the body.
Researchers analyzed data from 121 patients with mutations in the GRIN2A gene, which regulates the function of NMDA receptors, essential molecules for signal transmission in the brain. The results showed that certain variants of this gene are directly linked to the development of schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety disorders, with symptoms often appearing in childhood or adolescence. It was also observed that some patients experienced psychiatric disorders as the sole symptom of the mutation, without epilepsy or cognitive impairment, which were previously considered key indicators of GRIN2A problems.
The researchers noted that restoring NMDA receptor activity could improve patients' conditions. In a treatment trial using the L-serine supplement, which activates the receptor, researchers observed a significant reduction in psychiatric symptoms.
The study's authors believe this discovery could change the approach to diagnosing and treating mental illnesses, as in some cases the cause may be just one gene mutation, rather than hundreds of genes as previously thought.