Search for the Causes of Schizophrenia

This volume is a compilation of the presentations and discus- sions, arranged in a systematic manner, of the fifth symposium on the Search for the Causes of Schizophrenia, held in Guarujal Brazil in April, 2003. The meetings look back on a great tradi- tion. The first symposium, held in 1986 on the occasion of the th 600 anniversary of the University of Heidelberg, was our first effort to assemble successful schizophrenia researchers to pre- sent and discuss research results in a spirit overcoming meth- odological boundaries and disciplines. The result was one of the most interesting and exciting meetings and a proceedings volume published in 1987. Like the present volume it contained the presentations and discussions of the meeting conveying an excellent picture of what was going on in schizophrenia re- search at that time and outlining the main future perspectives. Four further symposia followed at an interval of 2 to 3 years each. They were guided by the same principle and characterised by illustrious contributors and a highly stimulating atmosphere. The proceedings volumes, all entitled "e;Search for the causes of schizophrenia"e; and looking alike, were published by the same publisher. They reflect the considerable progress made in schi- zophrenia research since 1986 and have been widely used as a source for information on the most promising research lines and results and as a reference for comprehensive reviews.