PMID: 18421986Apr 22, 2008Paper

Neurodevelopmental disturbance in the pathogenesis of major mental disorders

Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyū no shinpo
Atsushi KamiyaAkira Sawa

Abstract

Neurodevelopmental disturbance may underlie the pathogenesis of major mental disorders, including autism and schizophrenia, based on evidence in epidemiology, clinical psychiatry, brain imaging, and neuropathology. This notion is further supported by the fact that many of genetic susceptibility factors for these disorders have key roles in neurodevelopment. Majority of these genetic factors, such as Neuroligins, SHANK3, Neureglin-1, Dysbindin, and Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia-1 (DISC1) are associated with "synapse." Therefore, "synapse" is one of the most promising sites of convergence in regard to molecular pathways for these mental conditions. In this review, we will summarize the updates of schizophrenia and autism research, with an emphasis on neurodevelopmental disturbances.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Cell Adhesion Molecules in the Brain

Cell adhesion molecules found on cell surface help cells bind with other cells or the extracellular matrix to maintain structure and function. Here is the latest research on their role in the brain.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur as a result of an attack by the immune system on the body’s own tissues resulting in damage and dysfunction. There are different types of autoimmune diseases, in which there is a complex and unknown interaction between genetics and the environment. Discover the latest research on autoimmune diseases here.

Autism

Autism spectrum disorder is associated with challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues. Here is the latest research on autism.