Linking Blood, Brain, and Behaviour: A New Multi-Omics View of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia has long been a complex puzzle for neuroscientists, but a new study employing a ‘multi-omics’ approach—integrating biological data from different levels—is helping to piece it together. Researchers analysed blood samples and brain scans from 43 patients with schizophrenia and 60 healthy controls to find connections between gene activity and brain function.

The team utilised RNA sequencing to examine the ‘transcriptome’, or the complete set of RNA transcripts produced by the genome. They identified 994 genes that were expressed differently in patients compared to controls. Strikingly, the vast majority (921) were ‘downregulated’, meaning they were less active than usual. These genes are primarily involved in inflammation and the development of neurons.

Crucially, these genetic findings were not viewed in isolation. Using neuroimaging, the scientists observed altered activity in the prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortices—regions vital for decision-making and emotion. A statistical analysis revealed a significant cross-modal relationship: the patterns of gene expression in the blood mirrored the functional changes in the brain and the clinical symptoms observed.

The study successfully identified six specific genes, including GRK2 and KLF3, that were shared across datasets associated with both brain function and symptoms. These findings suggest a common transcriptional basis for the condition, potentially opening doors for improved diagnostic strategies and precision medicine tailored to the unique molecular profile of schizophrenia.