Archive · 16 Aug 2025
UK Study Finds Eight New Genes Linked to Schizophrenia
Scientists in the UK have found eight new genes that might be connected to schizophrenia, a mental illness affecting how people think and act.
They looked at the genes of many people, some with the illness and some without it.
They discovered that changes in genes like STAG1 and ZNF136 are strongly linked to schizophrenia.
Other genes, such as SLC6A1 and KLC1, also seem to play a role.
These discoveries help us understand how the illness works and might help in finding better treatments in the future.
It's like discovering new clues to help solve the puzzle of schizophrenia.
UK researchers discovered eight new genes linked to schizophrenia.
The study analyzed genetic data from nearly 30,000 individuals with schizophrenia and over 100,000 without.
Two genes, STAG1 and ZNF136, showed strong genetic links to schizophrenia.
Six other genes, SLC6A1, KLC1, PCLO, ZMYND11, BSCL2, and CGREF, were also linked.
Findings suggest potential links between schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Who
- Scientists at the Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics (CNGG) at Cardiff University.
- What
- Researchers identified eight new genes associated with schizophrenia.
- When
- The study was recently published.
- Where
- The research was conducted in the UK.
- Why
- To improve understanding and treatment of schizophrenia.
- Researchers
- Cardiff University, UK
- Genes identified
- STAG1, ZNF136, SLC6A1, KLC1, PCLO, ZMYND11, BSCL2, CGREF
- Participants
- 28,898 with schizophrenia; 103,041 without
- Published in
- Nature Communications
- Key finding
- Links to how DNA is organized and brain cell communication
