Episode 3: The Genetics of Psychosis — What Your DNA Can (and Can’t) Tell You

The Genetics of Psychosis — What Your DNA Can (and Can’t) Tell YouGuest: Fernando Goes, MD — Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineIs psychosis written in your genes? And if so, how much of the story can science actually read?In this powerful episode, Dr. Ann Conn sits down with Dr. Fernando Goes, one of the world’s leading psychiatric geneticists, to explore the cutting-edge science behind the genetics of psychosis, bipolar disorder, and severe mood disorders. Dr. Goes is at the forefront of massive genome-wide association studies (GWAS) that are identifying hundreds of tiny genetic variations—each one nudging risk in subtle ways—that collectively shape vulnerability to these illnesses.This conversation is both technical and deeply human. After the deaths of her sons, Dr. Conn donated their DNA to Dr. Goes’ research team, hoping that their contribution could help prevent other families from suffering similar losses. Years later, she learned that Dr. Goes regularly shares her New England Journal of Medicine essay with first-year psychiatry residents—a gesture honoring the intersection of grief, purpose, and scientific progress.Dr. Goes breaks down what we now understand from studying hundreds of thousands of genomes, why psychiatric illness is genetically complex, what polygenic risk scores can (and can’t) predict, and why your genes are not your destiny. Understanding genetic risk is about empowerment—early detection, tailored intervention, and ultimately, hope.In this episode, you’ll learn:How GWAS are uncovering genetic risk factors for psychosis and bipolar disorderWhy there is no single “schizophrenia gene”What polygenic risk scores actually mean—and whether they’re ready for clinical useHow bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other brain conditions overlap geneticallyHow environment interacts with inherited vulnerabilityWhether genetic insights should influence reproductive decisions (a careful, compassionate discussion)The importance of genetic research participation and how families can contributeWhat the future of precision psychiatry may look likeWhy this episode matters:The old saying is true: Genetics loads the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger.This episode offers a grounded, science-based answer to the haunting question many families ask: “Will this happen again?”Dedication:This episode is dedicated to Austin and Colin Conn, whose DNA continues to contribute to research that may one day prevent other families from enduring the same loss.Connect further with Dr Ann Conn:Website: https://www.annconnmd.comRegister for my free webinar: Reversing Chronic Migraine: Your Path to Real Recovery Starts Here: https://annconnmd.mykajabi.com/PreventingandReversingChronicMigraineLearn At Pinnacle & Earn CME: https://learnatpinnacle.com/educationSubscribe to newsletter: https://annconnmd.activehosted.com/f/7 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@annconnmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/annconnmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574820459419