Neurotensin agonists: potential in the treatment of schizophrenia.
Neurotensin (NT) is a neuropeptide that, for decades, has been implicated in the biology of schizophrenia. It is closely associated with, and is thought to modulate, dopaminergic and other neurotransmitter systems involved in the pathophysiology of various neuropsychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia. This review outlines the neurochemistry and function of the NT system and the data implicating its role in schizophrenia. The data suggest that NT receptor agonists have the potential to be used as novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of schizophrenia, with the added benefits of (i) not causing weight gain, an adverse effect that is problematic with some of the currently used atypical antipsychotic drugs; and (ii) helping patients to stop smoking, a behaviour that is highly prevalent in those with schizophrenia.
Boules
Mona
M
Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Florida 32224, USA. boules.mona@mayo.edu
Shaw
Amanda
A
Fredrickson
Paul
P
Richelson
Elliott
E
D000818:Animals; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D009496:Neurotensin / Q000819:agonists* / Q000502:physiology*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D009496:Neurotensin