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Schizophrenia-related behaviors were induced in mice through the administration of anti-NRXN1α autoantibodies taken from schizophrenia patients.

Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) have identified autoantibodies that act against neurexin 1α, an important protein for the formation of synapses, which allow brain cells to communicate, in a subset of patients with schizophrenia. These autoantibodies also caused schizophrenia-related changes in mice. Given that the symptoms of many patients with schizophrenia do not respond well to current treatments, the identification of new possible treatment targets—such as autoantibodies—is very important.

Links have been reported between schizophrenia and proteins produced by the immune system that can act against one's own body, known as autoantibodies.

Also, male mice born to mothers with an immune response exhibited “autistic-like” behaviors, scientists report.

Gut microbiota may contribute to behavior but not gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.