Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 26, 2026

Derivation, Expansion, Cryopreservation and Characterization of Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Published on: November 19, 2020
[Contribution of neurotrophic factors and cytokines to schizophrenia]
Hiroyuki Nawa1, Takashi Futamura, Makoto Mizuno
1Brain Research Institute, Niigata University.
Abstract:
Abnormal development of the brain is implicated in the etiology and/or pathology of various psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia. Current evidence indicates that neurotrophic factors can strongly influence neuronal phenotypic differentiation and subsequent neuronal function in synaptic plasticity. Among various neurotrophic factors, the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) is impaired in the brain as well as in the periphery of patients with schizophrenia. Based on this result, a novel animal model for schizophrenia has been established by perturbing the neurotrophic signaling during development. This review summarizes the latest progress of these studies.
Related Concept Videos
Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin studies.
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...
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Negative and Cognitive Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Negative Symptoms
Negative symptoms of schizophrenia manifest as deficits in normal emotional and behavioral functioning, profoundly impacting daily life. Individuals with schizophrenia often display a flat affect, characterized by a near-total absence of emotional expression,...
Excitatory and Inhibitory Effects of Neurotransmitters
Gut-Brain Axis