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Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism susceptibility to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: an

Cai-Yun Hu1, Zhen-Zhong Qian, Feng-Feng Gong

  • 1Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.

Journal of Neural Transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996)
|June 19, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene variations are linked to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, particularly in Asian and African populations. These MTHFR polymorphisms show a significant association with increased risk for these mental health conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Psychiatry
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms are investigated for their potential role in psychiatric disorders.
  • Previous studies on MTHFR and schizophrenia (SZ) or bipolar disorder (BPD) have yielded inconsistent results.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a meta-analysis to reliably assess the association between MTHFR polymorphisms and the risk of developing schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
  • To investigate potential ethnic differences in these associations.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic literature search identified 38 relevant articles up to February 27, 2014.
  • Random effects models were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
  • Subgroup analyses were performed based on ethnicity.

Main Results:

  • MTHFR C677T polymorphism was significantly associated with schizophrenia (recessive model: OR=1.34).
  • A marginal association was found between MTHFR C677T and bipolar disorder (recessive model: OR=1.26).
  • Significant associations for both SZ and BPD were observed in Asian and African populations, but not in white populations. MTHFR A1298C was associated with SZ in Asian populations.

Conclusions:

  • MTHFR gene polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
  • These associations are more pronounced in Asian and African populations compared to white populations.
  • The findings highlight the role of MTHFR variations in the etiology of these psychiatric conditions, with ethnic-specific patterns.

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