SCHIZOPHRENIA
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The GABA Theory
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. It has been known to play a role in schizophrenia for numerous reasons.
Firstly, GABA synthesis is impaired in schizophrenia. The enzyme glutamate decarboxylase which synthesises GABA from glutamate is deficient in the cerebral cortex. Moreover, there is a reduction in the density of the parvalbumin containing type GABAergic neurones. Additionally, the expression of the GABA receptor subtype, GABA, is altered. These factors all result in reduced inhibitory action of GABA.
This is further supported by results obtained from post-mortem and animal studies. These studies suggest that there is a decrease in GABA activity in parts of the brain such as the cortex and mesolimbic system, which are associated with schizophrenia.
It has also been proposed that the impaired inhibitory effect of GABA in the brain may result in excessive dopaminergic activity.
The GABA theory has therefore implicated that antipsychotics which are GABA agonists, may possibly be useful in the treatment of schizophrenia.