Genetic linkage studies have found an abnormal form of a gene for which type of neurotransmitter receptor?

Genetic linkage studies have found an abnormal form of a gene for which type of neurotransmitter receptor?

• A. D1
• B. Serotonin
• C. D2
• D. GABA

Answer: (C)

Genetic linkage studies in schizophrenia have most consistently pointed to an abnormal form of the gene for the dopamine D2 receptor. This receptor is a key player in dopaminergic signaling, and the D2 subtype is closely tied to the positive symptoms that classic theories of schizophrenia emphasize. Antipsychotic medications commonly work by blocking D2 receptors, which aligns with the idea that alterations in the D2 receptor gene could contribute to the disorder. Other receptors like D1 are involved in dopamine signaling as well, and serotonin or GABA systems play roles in mood and anxiety, but the strongest genetic signal from linkage studies is specifically with the D2 receptor gene.

Genetic linkage studies in schizophrenia have most consistently pointed to an abnormal form of the gene for the dopamine D2 receptor. This receptor is a key player in dopaminergic signaling, and the D2 subtype is closely tied to the positive symptoms that classic theories of schizophrenia emphasize. Antipsychotic medications commonly work by blocking D2 receptors, which aligns with the idea that alterations in the D2 receptor gene could contribute to the disorder. Other receptors like D1 are involved in dopamine signaling as well, and serotonin or GABA systems play roles in mood and anxiety, but the strongest genetic signal from linkage studies is specifically with the D2 receptor gene.