Research Progress on the Association between Schizophrenia and Toxoplasma gondii Infection

Author: Zhu YITING ¹ ; Yang XIAOHUI ; Chen MIAORU ; Hu YU ; Chang YUNFENG ; Wu XIANG
Author Information

1. Department of Forensic Medicine Science,Xiangya School of Basic Medicine,Central South University,Changsha 410013,Hunan,China
Keywords: Toxoplasma gondii; Schizophrenia; Neurotransmitters; Neuroinflammation; Immunity; Epigenetics
From: Biomedical and Environmental Sciences 2024;37(6):647-660
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Toxoplasma gondii(T.gondii or Tg),is an obligatory intracellular parasite with humans as its intermediate hosts.In recent years,significant correlations between T.gondii infection and schizophrenia have been reported,including the possible mediating mechanisms.Currently,mechanisms and hypotheses focus on central neurotransmitters,immunity,neuroinflammation,and epigenetics;however,the exact underlying mechanisms remain unclear.In this article,we review the studies related to T.gondii infection and schizophrenia,particularly the latest research progress.Research on dopamine(DA)and other neurotransmitters,the blood-brain barrier,inflammatory factors,disease heterogeneity,and other confounders is also discussed.In addition,we also summarized the results of some new epidemiological investigations.