The present invention relates to methods and compositions for enhancing neuronal connectivity. It is based, at least in part, on the discovery of a protein, termed “Mirta22,” that inhibits the formation of structures which create connections between neurons. It is further based, in part, on the discovery that inhibiting Mirta22 activity by short hairpin RNA was able to restore these structures. Mirta22 was discovered in experiments relating to 22q11 microdeletions, which have been linked to schizophrenia. Accordingly, the present invention provides for methods of treating schizophrenia comprising administering an agent that inhibits Mirta22 activity. It may also be used in the treatment of other disorders that would benefit from enhanced neural connectivity, including learning and memory disorders.
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