Overactive immune cells trigger schizophrenia

Prevent schizophrenia by calming the immune system
The activity of immune cells is, according to a recent study, a strong indicator of whether an individual is at increased risk of developing schizophrenia. It also became clear that inflammation can lead to schizophrenia and other disorders. The study was conducted by researchers from the Medical Research Council's Clinical Sciences Center in collaboration with colleagues at King's College London.

The subjects were examined for their microglial activity and its effect on the brain. Microglia cells respond to damage and infections in the brain. The cells are also responsible for rearranging the connections between the brain cells. These should work as well as possible. Peter Bloomfield, lead author of the study at the MRC Clinical Sciences Center, said, "Our findings are particularly exciting because it was not known if these cells became active before or after the onset of the disease. For the first time, we have evidence that cell overactivity begins before the disease completely breaks out. "

Inflammations in the brain are possible triggers for schizophrenia and psychosis. (Image: psdesign1 / fotolia.com)

Study investigates activity of microglial cells
For the purpose of the study, a total of 56 persons were examined. These consisted of subjects who either already suffered from schizophrenia, who were at risk for a disease or had symptoms of the disease. It was found that activity levels of microglia increased in the brain, the more pronounced the disease symptoms were.

Results could help prevent the onset of schizophrenia
Dr. Oliver Howes commented, "Schizophrenia is a potentially devastating disease and we urgently need new treatment options." Now that it is known that the overactivity of microglial cells begins before the onset of the disease, it may be possible to reduce activity and thereby prevent the onset of the disease.

Inflammation in the brain can lead to schizophrenia
Dr. Howes added that this was a promising study. It was found that even inflammation in the brain could lead to schizophrenia. Therefore, it should now be tested if anti-inflammatory treatments could help combat such diseases. This could lead to new treatments or even help prevent the onset of the disease in general.

Professor Hugh Perry, added: "Schizophrenia is a complex disease. It is known to be caused by an interplay of genetic, behavioral and other factors. It is possible that microglial cells will separate the wrong connections in the brain. " According to the researchers, the study results suggest that inflammation of the cells in the central nervous system is associated with the risk of psychosis and related illnesses.