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Endogenous retroviruses and schizophrenia.
R H Yolken1, H Karlsson, F Yee
1Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Blalock 1111, Baltimore, MD, USA. yolken@welchlink.welch.jhu.edu
Brain Research. Brain Research Reviews
|March 17, 2000
Summary
Endogenous retroviruses, integrated into human DNA, may play a role in schizophrenia. Research found viral sequences and increased reverse transcriptase activity in affected individuals, suggesting a potential link to brain diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Virology
- Genetics
Background:
- Retroviruses can integrate into the host genome and be vertically transmitted.
- Endogenous retroviral sequences in the central nervous system can influence neural gene regulation.
- Schizophrenia is a complex brain disorder with genetic and environmental factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential role of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia.
- To review evidence linking ERV activity to human brain diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and evidence.
- Identification of viral sequences in brain and cerebrospinal fluid samples.
- Assay for reverse transcriptase activity in affected individuals.
Main Results:
- Viral sequences associated with ERVs found in brains and cerebrospinal fluids of individuals with schizophrenia.
- Elevated reverse transcriptase activity detected in affected individuals.
- ERV activity provides a potential link to the multifactorial aspects of schizophrenia.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests a possible role for endogenous retroviruses in schizophrenia etiopathogenesis.
- Further research into ERVs could lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for schizophrenia.
- Understanding ERV involvement may integrate genetic, environmental, and neurodevelopmental aspects of the disease.