Ancient viral snippets embedded within our DNA may increase our vulnerability to neuropsychiatric disorders, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature Neuroscience has delved into the role of Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs), which make up around 8% of our genome.
These HERVs are remnants of ancient viruses that have become part of our genetic makeup over time. While some HERVs have been linked to cancer, others have beneficial functions. However, their potential impact on mental health has remained largely unexplored.
The research team, led by scientists at King’s College London, analyzed genetic data from tens of thousands of individuals, as well as brain tissue samples from nearly 800 patients with and without psychiatric disorders. They found that specific variations in genes, known as gene variants, were associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Crucially, these gene variants also influenced the activity of nearby HERVs in the brain, suggesting a potential link between the two. By comparing cases and controls, the researchers were able to establish a stronger association between these genetic differences and the risk of psychiatric disorders.
This study is the first to identify five specific HERVs that are strongly tied to neuropsychiatric conditions. Two are associated with schizophrenia, one is common to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and one is specific to major depressive disorder. These HERVs are distinct from any previously linked to these conditions.
Experts have hailed the study as a significant advancement, highlighting the need to re-examine the way we study neurological diseases. While the research suggests that these HERVs may increase the likelihood of developing psychiatric disorders, further investigation is needed to determine the precise level of risk.
The researchers plan to continue their work by manipulating HERV activity in brain cells in the lab to better understand their impact on neuronal growth. This research holds promising potential for uncovering new insights into the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders and advancing our understanding of their genetic underpinnings.
