Oxidative Stress in Schizophrenia
摘要
Reactive species of molecules or free radicals can cause harm to biological systems. Oxidative stress results from imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species/free radicals and antioxidant defenses in the body. Such an oxidative stress has been implicated in several disorders of cardiovascular, neuropsychiatric, gastrointestinal, autoimmune, inflammatory disorders, and has recently been implicated in the etiopathogenesis and management of schizophrenia. Oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA and altered antioxidant functioning is associated with various symptoms of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia and oxidative stress are linked to each other by inflammatory and autoimmune regulation processes, neurotransmitters like dopamine, glutamate and nitric oxide, mitochondrial and metal metabolism, and genetic and epigenetic factors. Several preclinical and clinical studies show abnormal oxidative processes in schizophrenia, and further research is required to establish novel and key findings. Adjunctive antioxidants like Ginkgo biloba extract, selegiline, allopurinol, vitamins C and E, and N-acetyl cysteine are being considered in schizophrenia management.