Cindy Wang

What are the neurotransmitter alterations in response to schizophrenia and how are they addressed by current treatment options?

Started Nov. 14, 2024

Abstract or project description

Dopamine has been implicated to be a major neurotransmitter in relation to schizophrenia, but other neurotransmitters impact the disorder, too. GABA, glutamate, acetylcholine, and serotonin are all neurotransmitters to be taken into consideration when studying the disorder. Major symptoms can be split into two categories: positive and negative. Positive symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and unusual bodily movements. Negative symptoms include disinterest in daily activities, limited emotional expression, and avoidance of social interactions. General treatment options have been used: antipsychotic drugs, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy. In this paper, I will investigate how the major neurotransmitters impact this disease, the symptoms their dysfunction manifest through, and how treatment manages to address each dysfunction.

Decoding Schizophrenia: Understanding Key Risk Factors and Insightful Approaches to Prevention

Started May 1, 2024

Abstract or project description

Schizophrenia may result in a mix of hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking and behavior, and it currently affects approximately 1 in 222 people worldwide. While the exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, certain people exposed to genetic factors, drug abuse, and environmental factors are more at risk. For example, chances of getting schizophrenia are higher if a close relative has received it and if you’ve been a heavy user of drugs, such as cannabis. There is no current cure for schizophrenia, but close surveillance and antipsychotic medications may act as preventive measures. Here, I will investigate how the disease manifests through causes and risk factors, as well as neurotransmitter expression. Finally, I will give future perspectives on how it may be prevented.