Polymorphisms are identified in a human gene which encodes a voltage-gated ion channel. The gene maps to the same portion of human chromosome 13q22 to which genes for schizophrenia susceptibility, Bipolar Disorder, and Panic Disorder Syndrome have been mapped. The polymorphisms are used to follow inheritance of the susceptibilities within families. They are also used to identify affected probands. A complete mRNA sequence and genomic structure provide insights into function and relationship to other ion channels.
BION1 IS A NOVEL ION CHANNEL