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Genetic correlation between smoking behaviors and schizophrenia
Sarah M Hartz1, Amy C Horton1, Dana B Hancock2
1Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, United States.
Schizophrenia Research
|March 13, 2017
Summary
Genetic factors link schizophrenia and smoking behaviors. This study found a significant genetic correlation between schizophrenia and nicotine dependence, cigarettes per day, and smoking status, suggesting shared genetic underpinnings.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatric Genetics
- Behavioral Genetics
- Complex Trait Genetics
Background:
- Nicotine dependence and schizophrenia frequently co-occur, but the underlying reasons remain unclear.
- Understanding the genetic basis of this comorbidity is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic correlation between various smoking behaviors and schizophrenia.
- To determine if shared genetic factors contribute to the comorbidity of smoking and schizophrenia.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis results for five smoking phenotypes and schizophrenia were analyzed.
- Linkage Disequilibrium (LD) score regression was employed to compute SNP heritability and genetic correlations.
Main Results:
- All five smoking phenotypes exhibited significant SNP heritability.
- Nicotine dependence showed the highest SNP heritability among smoking behaviors.
- Significant genetic correlations were found between schizophrenia and nicotine dependence (rg=0.14), cigarettes per day (rg=0.12), and ever/never smoking (rg=0.10).
Conclusions:
- Common genetic variations contribute to both smoking behaviors and schizophrenia.
- These findings highlight a shared genetic etiology for the comorbidity between smoking and schizophrenia.
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