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Association between the 2D:4D ratio and schizophrenia
Yuanyuan Han1, Wei Deng1, Wei Lei1
1The Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
The Journal of International Medical Research
|June 27, 2020
Summary
The second digit to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is significantly higher in schizophrenia patients compared to healthy individuals. This finding suggests abnormal cerebral conditions may be linked to schizophrenia pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Human Biology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The second digit to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is a proposed marker of prenatal androgen exposure.
- Digit ratio (2D:4D) has been investigated for its potential association with various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the 2D:4D ratio and schizophrenia.
- To explore the 2D:4D ratio as a potential indicator of schizophrenia pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 843 schizophrenia patients and 1050 healthy controls.
- Measurement of digit lengths of both hands and analysis of the 2D:4D ratio in all subjects.
Main Results:
- The 2D:4D ratio was sexually dimorphic in healthy controls, with higher values in women.
- Schizophrenia patients exhibited a significantly larger 2D:4D ratio compared to healthy controls.
- The difference in 2D:4D ratios between male patients and controls was more pronounced than in females.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the hypothesis of abnormal cerebral conditions in schizophrenia patients.
- The 2D:4D ratio may serve as a potential biomarker for schizophrenia.
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