Dimensional Traits of Schizotypy Associated With Glycine Receptor GLRA1 Polymorphism: An Exploratory Candidate-Gene Association Study

Abstract

Schizotypy captures the underlying genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia. However, the genetic underpinnings of schizotypy remain unexplored. The authors examined the relationship between single nucleotide poly-morphisms (SNPs) and schizotypy. A sample of 137 subjects (43 healthy controls, 34 subjects with schizotypal personality disorder [SPD], 32 with borderline personality disorder, and 25 with other personality disorders) completed the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ). Subjects were genotyped using a custom array chip. Principal component analysis was used to cluster SPQ variables. Linear regression tested for associations between dimensional schizotypy and SNPs. Logistic regression tested for associations between SNPs and SPD diagnosis. There were significant associations between the minor alleles of three SNPs within the glycine receptor alpha 1 subunit (GLRA1) and the disorganized schizotypy dimension, even after Bonferroni correction. There were no significant associations between any SNPs and the categorical SPD diagnosis. Glycine receptor pathways may have an impact on dimensional traits of psychosis.