This seems like a research effort that is very simple to get involved in - with large potential benefits. I'd encourage anyone who can, to participate. I hope SUNY Stony Brook will post the results of the study on the internet/web when it is completed for all to access - if they don't have simple access to a web server I'd be happy to provide the service at no charge. - Brian.

HELP NEEDED TO FIND THE GENE FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA

Schizophrenia (and other major psychiatric illnesses that overlap with it) is known to have an inherited tendency--that is, it appears to run in families. Why and how this occurs is not yet known. Our research program is investigating what causes this familial tendency by examining the genes of those afflicted with the illness and those of their immediate relatives. If a gene can be linked to the development of schizophrenia, advances can be made in the detection of this illness and in creating new treatments for it.

Our research studies on the inheritance of schizophrenia are funded by a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Because of the complex nature of this illness, we need the participation of as many families as possible in which there are two or more living siblings diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, and who have at least one living parent.

Participation involves giving one blood sample at a local facility and being available at some time to speak with one of our investigators either by telephone or in person. If you would like more information and/or would like to participate, please call Phone Numbers: (516) 444-1556 or (516) 444-3406,EMAIL: ppeterso@mail.psychiatry.sunysb.edu or

write to:

Lynn DeLisi, M.D.,
Project Director Department of Psychiatry Health Sciences Center,
T-10 SUNY Stony Brook
Stony Brook, NY 11794-8101