POSTECH’s research team discovered that the gene DISC1, known to cause schizophrenia, influences the functions of mitochondria in cells. Published in the latest online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) of the US, the research is drawing the spotlight for suggesting a new path for schizophrenia treatment and explanation of the previously unknown interaction between DISC1 and mitochondria.

The research team led by Professor Sang Ki Park, Dr. Young-Un Park, and Ph. D candidate Jaehoon Jeong from the Department of Life Science    uncovered that a malfunction of the DISC1 protein obstructs normal functions of mitofilin protein, impairing mitochondrial functions. They also found out that the malfunction could influence the metabolism of neurotransmitters such as dopamine.

An acronym for ‘Disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1’, DISC1 was only thought to have effects on the development of schizophrenia, and therefore previous research focused solely on the pathway of acquring the disease caused by DISC1. The new discovery explains that schizophrenia is not only caused by the malfunctions of neurons, but also by that of mitochondria. Scientists are expecting this research to shed light on a new approach to curing schizophrenia.

Professor Park explained his motive for the research saying that “1% of the world population could suffer from schizophrenia and hospitalization is demanded, yet investigation from a neurobiological point of view is still insufficient.” He also hoped that “this research would suggest new treatment methods for schizophrenia through artificially controlling mitochondria functions.”