Project Summary

Amelia Gallitano-Mendel, M.D., Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2004) of Washington University, has evidence a protein that regulates other neuronal genes that respond to environmental stimuli may be involved in schizophrenia. In mice lacking a functional gene for the protein, called an immediate early gene transcription factor (IEG), Dr. Gallitano-Mendel has found emotional and social abnormalities. Also, the mice have olfactory deficits, which often are found in schizophrenic patients. Dr. Gallitano-Mendel proposes to sequence the IEG candidate gene for the protein in a population of schizophrenic patients and controls to identify any difference between the groups. She believes biological, genetic and behavioral evidence makes IEG a candidate for a schizophrenia susceptibility gene.

Program Area: SCHIZOPHRENIA/PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS\Schizophrenia

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