Introduction to the neuroscience of the disorder

Question 1

The dopamine theory of schizophrenia

Answer 1

Elevated levels of Dopamine might be responsible for the development of Schizophrenia

Question 2

Biological Mechanisms of Schizophrenia

Answer 2

• Positive symptoms respond well to dopamine blocking agents
• Degree to which these ‘typical’ antipsychotic medications bind to D2 receptors determines their potency in reducing symptoms.
• D2 receptors located largely in caudate and n. accumbens.
• Explains why antipsychotics produce Parkinsonian effects

Question 3

Brain pathology in Schizophrenia

Answer 3

Brains of people with schizophrenia show:

• Reduced volume of temporal and frontal cortex
• Enlarged ventricles (reflecting loss of brain cells)

For 12 of 15 twins, the schizophrenic twin could be identified by enlarged ventricles.
- Reduced metabolic activity within prefrontal cortex (frontal hypoactivation)