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Shared Genes May Link Five Major Disorders, including Autism, Major Depression and Others


Recent study findings show that five major disorders— autism, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and schizophrenia — may share common genetic risk factors.  These findings may help pave the way to a better understanding and more treatment options for these disorders in the future. 
To look for common genetic markers, researchers scanned the genes of more than 33,000 people suffering from these disorders and nearly 28,000 people without such issues.
“This study, for the first time, shows that there are specific genetic variants that influence a range of childhood and adult-onset psychiatric disorders that we think of as clinically different,” said lead researcher Dr. Jordan Smoller, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
Looking for these genes in an individual now would not be considered a diagnostic tool.  However, according to Dr. Smoller, “It could change the way we define and diagnose these disorders, based on the biological causes. Some of the disorders we think of as clinically distinct actually have more of a relationship than we might have thought.”
As more gene studies are conducted and analyzed, scientists will “be in a better place to identify shared cause of psychiatric disorders at a molecular level,” Dr. Smoller said. “Ultimately, this could generate new models for drug interventions and possibly even prevention.”
We here at the Fairfax and Fredericksburg Elder Law Firms of Evan H. Farr, P.C. are glad to share this important research and hope that these findings contribute to more treatment and prevention options for these disorders in the future.  Do you or a family member have special needs?  Be confident that your legal planning provides the protections you and your loved ones need.  Click hereto read about Special Needs Planning at the Law Firm of Evan H. Farr, P.C.  Please call us at 703-691-1888 to make an appointment for a consultation. 
P.S.For the month of March 2013, mention this posting and save 20% of elder law and estate planning at The Farr Law Firm.
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About Evan H Farr, CELA, CAP

Evan H. Farr is a 4-time Best-Selling author in the field of Elder Law and Estate Planning. In addition to being one of approximately 500 Certified Elder Law Attorneys in the Country, Evan is one of approximately 100 members of the Council of Advanced Practitioners of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and is a Charter Member of the Academy of Special Needs Planners.

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