Project Summary

Dalu Mancama, BSc., MSc., D.I.C., Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2003) of Institute of Psychiatry, notest that complex genetic factors are believed be significant in the etiology of schizophrenia.  Alterations in genetically mediated histamine and muscarinic mechanisms may be central to the neurocognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia, as these receptor pathways play an important role in memory, attention and learning.  Recently, Dr. Mancama has uncovered evidence for significant reductions in muscarinic 1 and histamine 1 receptor expression in schizophrenia patients.  In this project, Dr. Mancama plans to systematically examine the expression, density and genetic integrity of histamine and muscarinic receptors in brain regions specifically involved in schizophrenia.  Dr. Mancama will also research the influence that these receptors have on treatment outcome, positive and negative symptoms, I.Q. and cognitive performance in individuals with schizophrenia.

Program Area: SCHIZOPHRENIA/PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS\Schizophrenia\Pharmacology

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