Ancient viral DNA linked to major psychiatric disorders, study suggests

Thousands of DNA sequences originating from ancient infections are found in the brain (David Davies/PA)

Ancient viral DNA still present in the human genome may be linked to major psychiatric disorders, research suggests.

Thousands of DNA sequences originating from ancient infections are found in the brain, with some contributing to susceptibility for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, the study led by King’s College London found.