D3 dopamine receptor mRNA expression in lymphocytes: a peripheral marker for schizophrenia?

Background: Identification of schizophrenia, a common neuropsychiatric disorder, is based on clinical examination. An easily measurable peripheral marker, which may enable a more rapid and more accurate diagnosis, is not available. A possible candidate is the D3 dopamine receptor on lymphocytes.

D-cycloserine increases positive symptoms in chronic schizophrenic patients when administered in addition to antipsychotics: a double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled study.

A hypofunction of the glutamatergic system and NMDA receptors in schizophrenia has been hypothesized. Therefore, stimulation of these receptors could be of benefit to patients with schizophrenia. D-cycloserine has been used for this purpose.