Genomic influences on schizophrenia-related neurotransmitter systems.
OBJECTIVE
(a) to summarize genomic influences in schizophrenia, (b) to review the molecular genetic profile associated with schizophrenia, (c) to summarize the genetic factors affecting dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitter systems, and (d) to list nursing implications for this knowledge.


METHODS
Schizophrenia and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, both clustered in families, arise from both genetic and environmental influences. Schizophrenia does not develop from a single genetic mutation but rather from many genetic alterations acting together.


CONCLUSIONS
Studies focused on genetic polymorphisms of neurotransmitter systems pique nurses' interest because pharmacological interventions affecting those systems remain the primary approach to treatment. Atypical antipsychotics have in common the ability to antagonize dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors. This review includes the recent discoveries regarding genetic modifications affecting dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitter systems and their potential as a basis for treatment.
Keltner
Norman L
NL
School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA. NKeltner@UAB.edu
D002394:Catechol O-Methyltransferase / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D004298:Dopamine / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D011954:Receptors, Dopamine / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D011985:Receptors, Serotonin / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000235:genetics*; D012701:Serotonin / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D009626:Terminology as Topic
D011954:Receptors, Dopamine; D011985:Receptors, Serotonin; D012701:Serotonin; D002394:Catechol O-Methyltransferase; D004298:Dopamine