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This article discusses a study by UC Davis Health researchers that identified new biomarkers for predicting psychosis risk in individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. The missing piece of chromosome 22 in individuals with this genetic condition can lead to various health challenges, including psychosis. The research focused on identifying biomarkers that could indicate which patients with 22q are more likely to develop psychosis, allowing for early detection and treatment. Early diagnosis could greatly benefit patients with this condition.
A recent study led by UC Davis Health researchers provides new insights into the molecular changes linked to the rare genetic condition 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, or 22q. It found unique biomarkers that could identify patients with 22q who may be more likely to develop schizophrenia or psychiatric conditions, including psychosis, which is commonly associated with 22q. The research was published in the journal Metabolomics.
People with 22q are missing a piece of chromosome 22 that contains more than 30 genes. This loss can lead to a variety of health challenges, including heart issues, psychosis, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and other conditions. However, it is not clear which genes in the deleted region lead to these symptoms.
The research team focused on the likelihood of patients with 22q developing psychosis, a condition characterized by difficulty recognizing what is real and what is not. This condition can affect up to 20% of patients with 22q in their late teens to mid-twenties. Without good diagnostic tests, it is almost impossible to predict which patients face these risks. Early detection would help patients start treatments when most helpful.
“The molecular changes we found clearly distinguish patients with 22q from those who don’t have this condition. These findings could help predict psychosis risk in these patients before symptoms manifest,” said Flora Tassone, a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. Tassone is an investigator at the UC Davis MIND Institute and the senior author of the paper. “This work could also help identify targets