Scientists believe they have discovered a genetic defect which could help explain the biological basis of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is the most common severe mental illness in Britain, and the findings could result in earlier diagnosis in children and young people, and lead to the development of new drugs and better treatment.A study by scientists at Stanford University in California, has found that a genetic defect in some people can trigger a dangerous increase in levels of a natural brain chemical called dopamine, which may lead to schizophrenia.
