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Toxoplasma gondii and schizophrenia
E Fuller Torrey1, Robert H Yolken
1Stanley medical REsearch Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-2142, USA. torreyf@stanleyresearch.org
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|January 17, 2004
Summary
Infectious agents like Toxoplasma gondii may play a role in schizophrenia. Studies show a higher prevalence of T. gondii antibodies in individuals with schizophrenia, suggesting a potential link for new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Epidemiologic studies suggest infectious agents may contribute to schizophrenia.
- Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection in animals alters behavior and neurotransmitter function.
- Acute T. gondii infection in humans can cause psychotic symptoms resembling schizophrenia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize evidence on the association between T. gondii and schizophrenia.
- To explore the potential role of T. gondii in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia.
- To identify potential avenues for new prevention and treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 19 studies investigating T. gondii antibodies in schizophrenia patients and controls.
- Analysis of two additional studies examining childhood cat exposure as a risk factor.
- Consideration of existing schizophrenia medications' effects on T. gondii replication in vitro.
Main Results:
- 18 out of 19 studies reported a higher percentage of T. gondii antibodies in individuals with schizophrenia.
- 11 of these studies found a statistically significant difference in antibody prevalence.
- Childhood exposure to cats was identified as a risk factor for developing schizophrenia in two studies.
Conclusions:
- A significant body of evidence suggests a link between T. gondii infection and schizophrenia.
- T. gondii may be implicated in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia.
- Further research could lead to novel therapeutic and preventive strategies targeting T. gondii.