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Mohammadreza Yousefi

 

Mohammadreza Yousefi

Rutgers University,
United States of America

Abstract Title: The Role of Toxoplasma gondii in Schizophrenia: Neuroinflammation, Neurotransmitter Dysregulation, and Shared Molecular Pathways

Biography:

Mohammadreza completed his PhD in Veterinary Parasitology in age of 30 from Tehran University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Rutgers University. He is currently a researcher in Firestein Lab, focusing on gene therapy applications for brain disorders. Reza has published over 80 papers in reputable scientific journals. His work emphasizes pioneering gene transfer techniques, particularly using Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites for treatment of schizophrenia-related symptoms in animal models.

Research Interest:

Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan parasite, is increasingly recognized for its association with neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia. Schizophrenia, characterized by psychosis, cognitive impairment, and emotional dysregulation, may be exacerbated by T. gondii infection through various biological pathways, including neuroinflammation, dopamine dysregulation, and immune system modulation. This review examines the intersecting molecular mechanisms of toxoplasmosis and schizophrenia, highlighting key proteins such as tyrosine hydroxylase, heat shock proteins (HSPs), and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), which are integral to neurotransmitter regulation and immune responses. Additionally, complement system components (C1q, C3) and enzymes, including indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), are explored for their roles in fostering chronic neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter imbalances in schizophrenia patients with Toxoplasma infection. This synthesis of epidemiological evidence, mechanistic insights, and experimental findings underscores how T. gondii-related disruptions in dopamine regulation, neurodevelopment, and immune homeostasis may elevate the risk of schizophrenia. Recognizing these shared molecular pathways provides avenues for potential therapeutic interventions, such as anti-parasitic treatments and immunomodulatory approaches, to better manage schizophrenia in individuals with latent toxoplasmosis.