Free radical pathology in schizophrenia: a review.
There is evidence that free radicals are involved in membrane pathology, and may play a role in schizophrenia. Free radicals are reactive chemical species generated during normal metabolic processes, and, in excess, can damage lipids, proteins, and DNA. Regions of high oxygen consumption, lipid content, and transition metals are at particular risk. Hence, neuronal membranes are uniquely vulnerable to radical-mediated damage. Elaborate antioxidant defense systems exist to protect against oxidative stress. In schizophrenia there is evidence for dysregulation of free radical metabolism, as detected by abnormal activities of critical antioxidant enzymes and other indices of lipid peroxidation in plasma, red blood cells, and cerebrospinal fluid. Such abnormalities have been associated with tardive dyskinesia, negative symptoms, neurological signs, poor premorbid function, and CT scan abnormalities. Studies to date have generally been exploratory. Further elucidation of the role of free radicals and antioxidants in schizophrenia and its treatment will require systematic investigation.
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, PA 15213, USA.
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Reddy
J K
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Yao
D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000737:chemistry / Q000473:pathology; D005228:Fatty Acids, Essential / Q000378:metabolism; D005260:Female; D005609:Free Radicals; D006801:Humans; D015227:Lipid Peroxidation; D008560:Membrane Fluidity; D008563:Membrane Lipids / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D018384:Oxidative Stress; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology
D005228:Fatty Acids, Essential; D005609:Free Radicals; D008563:Membrane Lipids; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species