The obesity risk gene FTO influences body mass in chronic schizophrenia but not initial antipsychotic drug-induced weight gain in first-episode patients.

Genetic factors contribute to the individual variability in weight gain caused by several antipsychotic drugs. The FTO gene is associated with obesity in the general population; we have investigated whether a common risk polymorphism (rs9939609) in this gene is associated with antipsychotic drug-induced weight gain and obesity. Two samples were studied: (1) 93 first-episode patients receiving antipsychotic drugs for the first time and having body weight monitored for up to 12 months; (2) 187 chronic patients with schizophrenia assessed for measures of obesity and metabolic dysfunction.

Early response to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in panic disorder is associated with a functional 5-HT1A receptor gene polymorphism.

Background: Panic disorder is a common and disabling condition which can be treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Although many subjects respond well to such treatment, there is substantial inter-individual variation implicating genetic factors.

Methods: 102 patients with a diagnosis of panic disorder receiving sertraline or paroxetine took part in study.

Influence of 5-HT2C receptor and leptin gene polymorphisms, smoking and drug treatment on metabolic disturbances in patients with schizophrenia.

Background: Obesity and metabolic syndrome are significant problems for patients taking antipsychotic drugs. Evidence is emerging of genetic risk factors.

Aims: To investigate the influence of two candidate genes, smoking and drug treatment on obesity and metabolic syndrome in patients with schizophrenia.