The role of schizotypal traits and the OXTR gene in theory of mind in schizophrenia: A family-based study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is consistent evidence that theory of mind (ToM) is impaired in schizophrenia (SZ); however, it remains unclear whether such deficits are trait- or state-dependent. We evaluated ToM in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs), their healthy first-degree relatives, and controls to test its suitability as an endophenotypic marker. We also studied the modifying effect of markers of clinical and genetic liability to SZ (schizotypy and genetic variability in the oxytocin receptor gene: OXTR) on ToM in healthy individuals.

Methods

The sample included 38 stable SSD patients, 80 unaffected first-degree relatives, and 81 controls. ToM was assessed using the Hinting Task (HT) and schizotypy via the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire-Brief (SPQ-B), whic

SUBMITTER: Giralt-Lopez M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7315883 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature