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Increased soluble interleukin 2 receptor levels in schizophrenia
F Gaughran1, E O'Neill, M Cole
1Department of Psychiatry, University College, Cork, Ireland.
Schizophrenia Research
|March 28, 1998
Summary
This study found significantly higher levels of soluble interleukin 2 receptor alpha (sIL2R alpha) in Irish patients with schizophrenia compared to controls. These findings support the role of immune system dysfunction in schizophrenia.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Immunological mechanisms are increasingly implicated in schizophrenia.
- Previous laboratory findings regarding immune markers in schizophrenia have been variable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate soluble interleukin 2 receptor alpha (sIL2R alpha) levels in the sera of Irish patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.
- To investigate the association between sIL2R alpha levels and schizophrenia in an Irish cohort.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from 27 patients with schizophrenia or schizophreniform psychosis and 32 controls.
- Diagnosis was confirmed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IIIR.
- Soluble IL2R alpha levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Main Results:
- Patients with schizophrenia exhibited significantly higher median sIL2R alpha levels (1010.4 pg/ml) compared to controls (792.3 pg/ml).
- The difference in sIL2R alpha levels was statistically significant (two-tailed p = 0.0019).
Conclusions:
- Elevated sIL2R alpha levels in this Irish population with schizophrenia align with existing research.
- These results further support the involvement of immunological mechanisms in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.