Glutamatergic transmission in schizophrenia: from basic research to clinical practice

Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2012 Mar;25(2):96-102. doi: 10.1097/YCO.0b013e32835035b2.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The past 20 years have seen the glutamatergic hypothesis go from theory to phase III trials of novel mechanism antipsychotics.

Recent findings: We review the recent literature on glutamatergic theory, covering assessment and genetic studies, as well as drug development in animals and humans.

Summary: Although evidence continues to accumulate in support of glutamate hypotheses, further research continues to be required and interactions with other key systems need to be explored.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Glutamic Acid / genetics
  • Glutamic Acid / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Rats
  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Schizophrenia* / diagnosis
  • Schizophrenia* / drug therapy
  • Schizophrenia* / genetics
  • Schizophrenia* / metabolism
  • Schizophrenia* / physiopathology
  • Thalamus / metabolism

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Biomarkers
  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate
  • Glutamic Acid