The Role of Cytokine Network in the Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia

A growing body of evidence suggests that cytokines have a role in schizophrenia. Cytokines are involved in neurodevelopment, schizophrenic psychopathology, and neurodegeneration, and these processes are all part of the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Cytokines modulate neuronal action, differentiation, and survival during neurodevelopment and are important factors in the processes of neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Cytokines also play a role in the activity and survival of neurons that utilize certain neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. This paper addresses the potential role of the cytokine network in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.