>The Schizophrenic's response to antipsychotic drugs lead to a
>theory that Schizophrenia is the result of elevated dopamine
>levels. There has been no conclusive findings that show this
>to be true.
True, general increase in dopamine levels is not seen in schizophrenic
patients. Conclusive evidence _does_ point to an imbalance in the
delicate levels of dopamine resulting in certain psychotic symptoms
seen in schizophrenia. The imbalance is seen mostly in the Mesocortico-
limbic DA system. This system of neurons is concerned mainly with regulation
of certain higher functions and ultimately involves the control of attention.
Disruption of the M-- DA system by repeated episodes of stress or by
administration of CNS stimulants cocaine, amphetamine, &c. leads to
dysfunction of the complex interplay between the various DA projections of
the system. Observed symptoms after such disruption are characteristic of
both schizophrenic and amphetamine-induced psychosis.
Evidence may seem inconclusive, but this can be explained by taking into
account (1) the variability of schizophrenic symptoms, and (2) the complex
interregulatory nature of dopaminergic neuronal systems.
Justin Baker
Brown University
