Biological Explanations Schizophrenia

Genetics

-research uses twins, families and adoptees, examines concordance rates of schiz.

-gene-mapping studies have compared genetic material from families with high incidence and low incidence of schiz. Several genes involved.

Biochemical

-Snyder said during a synapse to much dopamine is released leading to schiz.

-sufferers show high levels of D-2 receptors causing more dopamine.

-theory developed when it was found antipsychotic drugs used to treat schiz inhibited dopamine activity.

-dopamine releasing drug (L-dopa), LSD creates schiz behaviour

-genetic factors may create faulty dopamine systems

-Davis.. high levels in mesolimbic dopa system = positive symptoms high levels in mesocortical dopa system = negative symptoms

-reduced function of NMDA glutamate receptor in schiz. Dopa receptors inhibit release of glutamate... causing schiz.