Link between schizophrenia and amino acid

In his doctoral thesis, Jan-Willem Muntjewerff writes that a higher concentration of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood increases the risk of schizophrenia.

The same is true for a mutation in a gene involved in homocysteine metabolism (MTHFR). Homocysteine metabolism is important for supplying certain building blocks for the brain, such as fats, proteins, and neurotransmitters. Taking folic acid (a vitamin that can lower homocysteine in the blood) before getting pregnant already reduced the number of patients with this birth defect. Further research will have to show whether folic acid has a beneficial effect on the chances of developing schizophrenia.

Jan-Willem Muntjewerff: "Homocysteine metabolism and risk of schizophrenia"