In a new study, researchers have identified a link between genetic risk factors for schizophrenia and the thickness of retina.
The retina, as part of the central nervous system, may reflect early signs of brain disorders like schizophrenia.
An international team of researchers, led by the University of Zurich and the University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich examined whether changes in our nerve connections are linked to a genetic risk for schizophrenia.
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Using the data from UK Biobank, the researcers found that higher genetic susceptibility to schizophrenia is indeed associated with thinner retinas. They used optical coherence tomography, a fast and non-invasive eye scan to notice the pattern.
One of the study’s findings is that, unlike changes in the brain, changes in the retina are easy to detect using non-invasive and inexpensive retinal measurements. The findings also support the inflammation hypothesis of schizophrenia, suggesting new possibilities for early detection and treatment.
However, the researchers warned that the scope of the study is limited and further probe is necessary on a wider group of participants.
Previous studies have indicated that schizophrenia not only reduces volume of gray matter in the brains of those affected, but also leads to loss of retinal tissue. However, it remains unclear whether these changes are a contributing factor to the onset of schizophrenia or a result of the condition itself.
Retinal health may also be influenced by schizophrenia directly, potentially due to factors such as antipsychotic medication, associated lifestyle habits, or comorbid conditions like diabetes.
