Association between the DTNBP1 gene and intelligence: A case-control study in young patients with schizophrenia and related disorders and unaffected siblings

Janneke R. Zinkstok, Odette de Wilde, Therese A.M.J. van Amelsvoort, Michael W. Tanck, Frank Baas, Don H. Linszen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

51 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: The dystrobrevin-binding protein 1 (DTNBP1) gene is a susceptibility gene for schizophrenia. There is growing evidence that DTNPB1 contributes to intelligence and cognition. In this study, we investigated association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the DTNBP1 gene and intellectual functioning in patients with a first episode of schizophrenia or related psychotic disorder (first-episode psychosis, FEP), their healthy siblings, and unrelated controls. Methods: From all subjects IQ measurements were obtained (verbal IQ [VIQ], performance IQ [PIQ], and full scale IQ [FSIQ]). Seven SNPs in the DTNBP1 gene were genotyped using single base primer extension and analyzed by matrix-assisted laser deionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF). Results: Mean VIQ, PIQ, and FSIQ scores differed significantly (p < 0.001) between patients, siblings, and controls. Using a family-based and a case-control design, several single SNPs were significantly associated with IQ scores in patients, siblings, and controls. Conclusion: Although preliminary, our results provide evidence for association between the DTNBP1 gene and intelligence in patients with FEP and their unaffected siblings. Genetic variation in the DTNBP1 gene may increase schizophrenia susceptibility by affecting intellectual functioning.

Original languageEnglish
Article number19
JournalBehavioral and Brain Functions
Volume3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Apr 2007
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Association between the DTNBP1 gene and intelligence: A case-control study in young patients with schizophrenia and related disorders and unaffected siblings'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this