Genetic studies of apolipoprotein in schizophrenia – a significant systematic review

Introduction: Schizophrenia is a complex multifactorial mental disorder due to genetic, environmental and neurodevelopment. Apolipoprotein is identified as one of various genetic candidates involved in lipid metabolism, neurodevelopment, and neuroprotection. The aim of this systematic review is to combine existing genetic studies on apolipoprotein associated with schizophrenia to understand the potential role in the disorder’s pathogenesis and the implication on lipid metabolism in individuals with schizophrenia. Method: Using the PubMed and Scopus databases, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to search for studies published from 2004 to 2023 restricted to English language. Keywords including “schizophrenia”, “apolipoprotein”, “genetic” and “genetics” were used. Nonresearch materials such as books, reviews, letters to editors, and conference proceedings were excluded during the selection process. Only journal articles that undergo peer review were chosen to increase the reliability and credibility of the systematic review. Results: A total of 45 articles were included in the review and 4 major themes were identified. The themes discussed various topics including genetic polymorphisms, oxidative stress and DNA damage, cognitive functions, lipid metabolism and epigenetic mechanisms associated with schizophrenia. The important roles of apolipoprotein genes such as APOE, APOL and APOA1 were discussed in different aspects of schizophrenia. The APOE gene is the most frequently studied, reflecting the interest in this area of study. Conclusion: This systematic review highlighted several areas on the genetics of apolipoprotein in schizophrenia that could be a basis for future research to focus on identifying specific potential genetic biomarkers to develop better therapeutic interventions.