Our brain uses neurotransmitters to move messages along series of neurons. However, problems can arise when there is an imbalance of the neurotransmitters. Glutamate, one of these neurotransmitters, is necessary for brain function, but when there is too little or too much, it becomes toxic.
The toxicity can even atrophy a brain or cause hypermetabolism. Previous studies on Schizophrenia have shown that these same symptoms are found in patients in the later stages of this debilitating condition. Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center observed glutimate levels in schizophrenic mouse brains and concluded that the two were closely related. Because of these findings, doctors in the future could test for high levels of glutamate in patients at risk for schizophrenia and administer early treatment to prevent brain damage.
NOS themes of science:
Element of chance: The scientists found links between two previously unrelated topics
Collaboration: Many researchers worked together to discover the importance of glutamate.
(Article)
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/04/130418124641.htm
(Picture)
http://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0091305711002747-gr1.jpg
Its crazy how the slightest imbalance of a chemical in our bodies can present itself in drastic ways. It had never occurred to me that Schzophrenia could be caused by a chemical imbalance in our brain, it makes perfect sense. Hopefully with this information scientists will be able to create a cure for Schizophrenia in the future. I would like to add that Science is based on Evidence to your NOS themes because while they do seem to have a substantial amount of evidence to provoke further research, they're going to need a lot more to effectively link this to Schizophrenia.
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