Current Understanding of the Interplay Between Catechol-OMethyltransferase Genetic Variants, Sleep, Brain Development and Cognitive Performance in Schizophrenia

Title:Current Understanding of the Interplay Between Catechol-OMethyltransferase Genetic Variants, Sleep, Brain Development and Cognitive Performance in Schizophrenia

Volume: 11 Issue: 3

Author(s): Valter Tucci, Glenda Lassi and Martien J. Kas

Affiliation:

Keywords: COMT, sleep, cognition, brain development, Schizophrenia, Catechol O Methyl Transferase, COMT, Electroencephalographic technology, EEG, Electromyographic technology, Non-REM, slow wave sleep

Abstract: Abnormal sleep is an endophenotype of schizophrenia. Here we provide an overview of the genetic mechanisms that link specific sleep physiological processes to schizophrenia-related cognitive defects. In particular, we will review the possible relationships between catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), sleep regulation and schizophrenia development. Recent studies validate the hypothesis that COMT mutations may trigger disturbances during adolescence that affect sleep and cortical development. Anomalies in cortical development during this critical developmental phase may increase the susceptibility for schizophrenia. In conclusion, in view of therapeutic efficacy, we can envisage indications for future investigations into the role of COMT for sleep regulation, cognitive performance and sleep-related cognitive deficits.

Cite this article as:

Tucci Valter, Lassi Glenda and J. Kas Martien, Current Understanding of the Interplay Between Catechol-OMethyltransferase Genetic Variants, Sleep, Brain Development and Cognitive Performance in Schizophrenia, CNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets 2012; 11 (3) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/187152712800672454