Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 5, 2025

Real-Time Fluorescent Measurement of Synaptic Functions in Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Published on: July 16, 2021
Impaired calcium signalling and neuropsychiatric disorders in Darier disease: An exploratory review
Austin Ambur1, Asma Zaidi2, Charles Dunn1
1Department of Dermatology, Kansas City University, Oviedo, Florida, USA.
Abstract:
Darier (Darier-White) disease (DD) is an autosomal dominant skin disorder caused by pathogenic mutations in the ATP2A2 gene which encodes a calcium ATPase in the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum (SERCA2). Defects in the SERCA2 protein lead to an impairment of cellular calcium homeostasis, which in turn, triggers cell death pathways. There is a high prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders in patients affected by this condition, namely intellectual disability, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and suicidality. Though these associations have been well-documented over the years, little has been discussed or investigated regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms. The goal of this article is to review the literature related to the most commonly associated neuropsychiatric disorders found in patients with DD, highlight the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying each condition, and examine potential interventions that may be of interest for future development. A literature search was performed using PubMed to access and review relevant articles published in the last 40 years. Keywords searched included Darier disease neuropsychiatric, Darier disease pathophysiology, SERCA2 central nervous system, SERCA 2 skin, ATP2A2 central nervous system, ATP2A2 skin, sphingosine-1-phosphate signalling skin, sphingosine-1-phosphate signalling central nervous system, P2X7 receptor skin, and P2X7 receptor central nervous system. Our search resulted in 2692 articles, of which 61 articles were ultimately included in this review.
Insights
Darier disease, a genetic skin disorder, is linked to significant neuropsychiatric conditions. This review explores the underlying mechanisms and potential treatments for these associated brain disorders.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Dermatology
Background:
- Darier disease (DD) is an autosomal dominant skin disorder stemming from mutations in the ATP2A2 gene, impacting cellular calcium regulation (SERCA2).
- Patients with DD exhibit a high incidence of neuropsychiatric disorders, including intellectual disability, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and suicidality.
- The pathophysiological links between DD and these neurological conditions remain underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on neuropsychiatric disorders associated with Darier disease.
- To elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms connecting DD and neurological conditions.
- To examine potential therapeutic interventions for future development.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed.
- Keywords included Darier disease, neuropsychiatric disorders, ATP2A2 gene, SERCA2, and related signaling pathways.
- Sixty-one relevant articles published within the last 40 years were included in this review.
Main Results:
- The review synthesizes current knowledge on the association between Darier disease and various neuropsychiatric conditions.
- It highlights the role of impaired calcium homeostasis due to SERCA2 dysfunction in the central nervous system.
- Potential mechanisms involving sphingosine-1-phosphate and P2X7 receptor signaling are discussed.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the link between Darier disease genetics and neuropsychiatric conditions is crucial.
- Further research into the shared pathophysiological pathways can guide the development of targeted therapies.
- This review provides a foundation for investigating novel interventions for DD patients with neurological comorbidities.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Long-term Depression
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over...
Neural Regulation
Parkinson's Disease: Overview
Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ...

