Ancient Viral DNA in Humans Linked to Psychiatric Disorders

A study in Nature Communications reveals that ancient viral DNA, known as human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), embedded in the human genome may increase susceptibility to psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder. Researchers found specific gene variants associated with these disorders that also influence HERV activity in the brain. This discovery advances the understanding of the genetic basis of these conditions, though further research is needed to determine how HERVs contribute to disease development.