The Neuroinflammatory Puzzle: Understanding its Contribution to Schizophrenia Pathogenesis

Written By: Karla Uriostegui

---------------------------------------------------

Schizophrenia is one of the most serious chronic mental illnesses that affects 1% of the population worldwide. Some of the main symptoms are delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, trouble with thinking and lack of motivation. Schizophrenia generally starts between 15 and 25 for men and between 25 to 35 for women. Unfortunately, there isn't a cure for schizophrenia, but researchers are working to produce better treatments. Currently, we don’t know exactly what produces schizophrenia however we are getting some ideas by studying genetics, conducting behavioral research and using advanced imaging to look at the brain’s structure and function.

Neuroinflammation

    Neuroinflammation takes an important role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia cases. As we already know, inflammation activates our immune system. In the context of schizophrenia, there is evidence for a chronic, low-grade activation of inflammation and the immune system. Measurement of inflammation and immune activation requires the use of makers such as cytokines (proteins that modulate inflammation and the immune response). These proteins have been studied as possible molecular markers of schizophrenia. Also, meta-analyses have demonstrated increased pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with established schizophrenia. In addition, these findings suggest that the increase in inflammatory tone does occur at an early phase, preceding the onset of overt psychotic symptoms.

      We can state that increased inflammation occurs early in the course of the disorder and is not only a result of medication use. Fortunately, such findings help patients who do not respond properly to traditional treatments, but may benefit from therapies that choose other biological routes such as anti- inflammatory or immunomodulatory agents.

Oxidative stress

    Oxidative stress occurs when there is a disparity between production of free radicals such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidant defense mechanisms which can develop in cell and molecular injury. Reactive oxygen species may be released from damaged tissue, serving as catalysts of inflammation and immune processes. Immune cells produce and use reactive oxygen species to kill pathogens. We consider that oxidative stress may be an inducer as well as a product of inflammation

Conclusion

     To conclude, there is an evident connection between neuroinflammation and oxidative stress which is crucial to understand schizophrenia. Inflammation in the brain may trigger the disease, even before symptoms manifest. Previous research suggests new treatment options, beyond the usual medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs. Fortunately, there is hope for better outcomes for people who suffer from schizophrenia and don’t respond to standard treatments.