Retinal thinning linked to genetic risk factors for schizophrenia

Retinal thinning linked to genetic risk factors for schizophrenia

The retina is part of the central nervous system, and therefore a direct extension of the brain. This is why changes in the brain could potentially also be detected in our eyes. An international team of researchers led by the University of Zurich and the University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich has now tackled this very question.

A new study led by the University of Zurich shows that evidence of an increased risk of schizophrenia can already be found in the retina. This could contribute to better early detection in the future.

Schizophrenia is reflected in the brain structure - Scientific Inquirer

The symptoms of schizophrenia vary greatly from person to person. A new study shows how these differences manifest themselves in the structure of the brain. Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition that affects perception, thought and emotions. This complexity is reflected in the individual manifestations of the disease: for some patients, perceptual disturbances are the main problem, while for others, cognitive impairments are more pr…

Eye Clues to Schizophrenia Risk Found in Retinal Thickness

The retina, as part of the central nervous system, may reflect early signs of brain disorders like schizophrenia. A large-scale genetic study found that people with higher genetic risk for schizophrenia tend to have thinner retinas, even in the absence of symptoms.

An international team of researchers, led by the University of Zurich (Switzerland) and the University Hospital of Psychiatry in Zurich, have found evidence of genetic susceptibility to schizophrenia in the retina, which could help improve early detection of this disorder.