Rare genetic variants are uncommon changes in DNA that can sometimes have larger effects than individual common variants. These include certain copy-number changes, where a section of genetic material is deleted or duplicated. Some are…Continue Reading
Gene–environment interaction means that the effect of a genetic difference may depend on environmental circumstances, or vice versa. Susceptibility to schizophrenia is thought to involve complex relationships between biology, development and experience. Stress, prenatal factors…Continue Reading
Heritability estimates how much variation in susceptibility within a studied population is associated with genetic differences. It does not describe what percentage of one person’s illness was caused by genes. Nor does a high estimate…Continue Reading
A family history of schizophrenia or related conditions can indicate increased susceptibility, but it does not mean that another relative will develop the same illness. Risk depends on the relationship and the broader family pattern…Continue Reading
Polygenic risk refers to the combined influence of many genetic variants, each usually contributing a small effect. Researchers can combine associations into a polygenic risk score. The score summarises selected genetic information relative to the…Continue Reading