Western Australian family study of schizophrenia (WAFSS)

This series of inter-related research projects aims to increase our understanding of how genes and environmental factors influence mental function, symptoms and behaviour in people suffering from a psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia.

Our research involves a comparison between the genetic makeup and mental function of people affected by the illness and that of people without the disease.

We achieve this with the participation and cooperation of people diagnosed with schizophrenia, and, on occasion, that of their close relatives. Volunteers from the community also participate.

WAFSS has been in progress for nearly 10 years, and has produced important new knowledge that has been recognised internationally.

Research projects

• Australian Schizophrenia Research Bank
• Cognitive and neurophysiological investigation of first-rank symptoms in schizophrenia
• Genetics of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia
• Sleep-Wake Project: pattern disturbances in individuals with schizophrenia and their first degree relatives

Postgraduate studies

• Cortical inhibitory deficits as a core feature of schizophrenia: electrophysiological and neurocognitive studies

Contacts

Chief investigator Prof Assen Jablensky Phone: +61 8 9347 6429
Project coordinator David Vile Phone: +61 8 9347 6411