Schizophrenia is associated with an excess of which neurotransmitter in the mesolimbic region?

Schizophrenia is closely linked to dysregulation of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, in the brain's mesolimbic region. The mesolimbic pathway is involved in the reward system and emotion regulation, and elevated levels of dopamine within this region have been associated with the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions.

Research has shown that the hyperactivity of dopaminergic pathways can lead to these symptoms. Antipsychotic medications, which primarily work by blocking dopamine receptors, are effective in alleviating the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, further supporting the idea that excess dopamine is a significant factor in the disorder.

In contrast, serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA play roles in other neurological and psychiatric conditions but are not primarily implicated as the main excitatory neurotransmitter associated with the pathophysiology of schizophrenia in the mesolimbic region. Understanding this dopamine dysregulation is essential for developing effective treatment strategies for individuals with schizophrenia.