Schizophrenia: a purinergic hypothesis
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 16, 2026

Standardized Data Acquisition for Neuromelanin-Sensitive Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Substantia Nigra
Published on: September 8, 2021
1Departamento de Bioquímica - ICBS-, Universidade Federal do Rio, Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre - RS -CEP, 90035-003, Brazil. drlara@plug-in.com.br
Abstract:
Knowledge of the physiological roles of the purinergic system and its influence on other neurotransmitter systems has greatly advanced. In this article, a purinergic model is proposed as an attempt to integrate several findings in schizophrenia. According to this hypothesis, a purinergic system dysfunction would mainly result in reduced adenosinergic activity. This model also addresses the systemic aspects of schizophrenia, based on peripheral roles of purines, such as modulation of the immune system.
Related Concept Videos
Psychosis: Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
Researchers have identified genetic factors that increase susceptibility to schizophrenia, underscoring the intricate interplay between genetics and environment in disease development. At the core of schizophrenia's pathophysiology is excessive dopaminergic neurotransmission within the...
Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin studies.
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Psychosis and Antipsychotic Drugs: Overview
Schizophrenia
Positive Symptoms Schizophrenia: Hallucinations and Delusions
Hallucinations
Hallucinations in...