Immunological Markers and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Schizophrenia Patients and Their First-Degree Relatives

Abstract

Background: Functional outcomes in schizophrenia patients is more strongly correlated with cognitive impairments than psychotic symptoms. Patients with schizophrenia have been found to have elevated blood levels of chemicals that promote inflammation. A number of immune system imbalances can manifest, including those involving the innate system, the pro- and anti-inflammatory systems, and types 1 and 2 immunity.   This research aimed to evaluate cognitive functions in patients with schizophrenia and their first-degree relatives in relation to these cytokines and brain derived neurotrophic factor serum level.

Methods: The research included 90 participants, aged from 18 to 40 years old, both sexes, and medication free Group I was 30 patients with schizophrenia, Group II: first-degree relatives of patients with schizophrenia and a group of 30 healthy individuals served as a control (Group III).

Results: Interleukin 2, 6, and 8, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C reactive protein levels were all greater in schizophrenia patients compared to control subjects. They had significantly lower amounts of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor in their serum as compared to the control. While first degree relatives showed level of some inflammatory markers midway between schizophrenic patients and control subjects. Immunological markers showed negative relationship with cognitive functions, while brain-derived neurotrophic factors showed positive relationship with both memory and problem solving in schizophrenia patients.

Conclusion: Schizophrenia patients and their first-degree relatives have higher levels of certain immunological markers, which is related to cognitive dysfunction, while BDNF showed lower levels in schizophrenic patients.