Research Topic · Peer-Reviewed

Immune Hypothesis for Schizophrenia

The immune hypothesis of schizophrenia proposes that the immune system plays a role in the development of the disorder. It suggests that an overactive and/or aberrant immune response may be involved in the onset and/or progression of schizophrenia, leading to changes in the brain and the onset of psychotic symptoms.…

Curated from this journal's research 📚 1 peer-reviewed article cited 🗓 Reviewed June 2026

Overview

The immune hypothesis of schizophrenia proposes that the immune system plays a role in the development of the disorder. It suggests that an overactive and/or aberrant immune response may be involved in the onset and/or progression of schizophrenia, leading to changes in the brain and the onset of psychotic symptoms. Recent research has provided support for this hypothesis, suggesting the involvement of both innate and acquired immune pathways in the development of schizophrenia. Evidence suggests that immune system abnormalities, such as inflammation, autoimmune responses and infectious agents, may interact with genetic and environmental factors to contribute to the development of schizophrenia. More research is needed to fully understand the role of the immune system in schizophrenia and to develop potential new treatments for this mental disorder.

Research published in this journal

1 peer-reviewed article, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.

Editorial oversight

Curated from peer-reviewed research published in Schizophrenia Disorders And Therapy.

Journal editorial board
Olaoluwa Okusaga · United States Andrea de Bartolomeis · Italy Krzysztof Krysta · Poland

This page summarises published research for orientation; it is not medical or professional advice.