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Kashiwagi H, Matsumoto J, Miura K, Takeda K, Yamada Y, Fujimoto M, Yasuda Y, Yamamori H, Ikeda M, Hirabayashi N, Hashimoto R. Neurocognitive features, personality traits, and social function in patients with schizophrenia with a history of violence. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 147:50-58. [PMID: 35021134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent literature examining associations between cognitive function, clinical features, and violence in patients with schizophrenia has been growing; however, the results are inconsistent. Reports on social function and personality are limited. These studies are yet to be reflected in risk assessment tools and management plans. The aim of this study is to provide a resource for risk assessment and intervention studies by conducting multifaceted well-established assessments in a large population. Data from 355 patients with schizophrenia (112 patients with a history of violence; 243 patients without a history of violence) and 1265 healthy subjects were extracted from a large database of individuals with mental disorders in a general psychiatric population in Japan. The associations between violence in patients with schizophrenia and intellectual function, cognitive function (memory function, executive function, attentional function, verbal learning, processing speed, social cognition), clinical variables, personality traits, social function, and quality of life (QOL) were analyzed. Compared with healthy subjects, the schizophrenia group had broadly impaired cognitive function and social cognition, and their personality traits showed similar differences as those reported previously. Patients with schizophrenia with a history of violence showed significantly more impaired visual memory function (P = 1.9 × 10-5, Cohen's d = 0.34), longer hospitalization (P = 5.9 × 10-4, Cohen's d = 0.38), more severe excited factor on Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (P = 1.6 × 10-4, Cohen's d = 0.47), higher self-transcendence personality construct on the Temperament and Character Inventory (P = 1.8 × 10-4, Cohen's d = 0.46), and shorter total working hours per week (P = 4.8 × 10-4, Cohen's d = 0.53) than those with schizophrenia without a history of violence. New findings, including impaired visual memory, a high self-transcendence personality trait, and shorter total working hours, could be focused on in future interventional research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Kashiwagi
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan; Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Junya Matsumoto
- Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Miura
- Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Koji Takeda
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan; Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Yuji Yamada
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Michiko Fujimoto
- Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan; Department of Psychiatry, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuka Yasuda
- Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan; Medical Corporation Foster, Osaka, 531-0075, Japan
| | - Hidenaga Yamamori
- Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan; Department of Psychiatry, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan; Japan Community Healthcare Organization Osaka Hospital, Osaka, 553-0003, Japan
| | - Manabu Ikeda
- Department of Psychiatry, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Naotsugu Hirabayashi
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan
| | - Ryota Hashimoto
- Department of Pathology of Mental Diseases, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan.
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An Analysis of Five TrkB Gene Polymorphisms in Schizophrenia and the Interaction of Its Haplotype with rs6265 BDNF Gene Polymorphism. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:4789806. [PMID: 32351633 PMCID: PMC7174942 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4789806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Aim The BDNF dysfunction in the schizophrenia has been soundly documented. The TrkB gene is a high-affinity receptor of the BDNF that is changed in schizophrenia and mood disorders. The study had two aims: first, to identify whether the five nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TrkB gene are associated with a diagnosis of schizophrenia; and the latter, if any association exists between the TrkB SNPs and psychopathology, suicide attempts, and family history of schizophrenia in a Caucasian population. Methods Case-control study (401 patients and 657 healthy controls) was used to examine a predisposition for schizophrenia. The tests for psychopathology, suicide attempts, and family history of schizophrenia were conducted only in patient group. The severity of the schizophrenia was measured using the five-factor model of the PANSS. In addition, the haplotype analysis for both the separate for SNPs of TrkB gene and in combination with the rs6265 SNP BDNF gene was conducted. Results Our case-control study revealed that the genetic variants of rs10868235 (T/T polymorphic genotype) and rs1387923 (G/G polymorphic genotype) of the TrkB gene were associated with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia in men. However, the A/A wild genotype of rs1387923 was connected with a lower risk for both the development of and the family manifestation of schizophrenia in men. The G polymorphic allele of rs1565445 was associated with an increased risk of suicide in schizophrenia. The tested SNPs of the TrkB gene did not modulate the psychopathology of schizophrenia. The haplotype that was built with five SNPs in the TrkB gene was protective for men, but after joining the rs6265 SNP of the BDNF gene, a haplotype that was protective for women was created.
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Cho W, Shin WS, An I, Bang M, Cho DY, Lee SH. Biological Aspects of Aggression and Violence in Schizophrenia. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2019; 17:475-486. [PMID: 31671484 PMCID: PMC6852683 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2019.17.4.475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although the majority of patients with schizophrenia are not actually violent, an increased tendency toward violent behaviors is known to be associated with schizophrenia. There are several factors to consider when identifying the subgroup of patients with schizophrenia who may commit violent or aggressive acts. Comorbidity with substance abuse is the most important clinical indicator of increased aggressive behaviors and crime rates in patients with schizophrenia. Genetic studies have proposed that polymorphisms in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene and in the catechol-O-methyltransferase gene are related to aggression. Neuroimaging studies have suggested that fronto-limbic dysfunction may be related to aggression or violence. By identifying specific risk factors, a more efficient treatment plan to prevent violent behavior in schizophrenia will be possible. Management of comorbid substance use disorder may help prevent violent events and overall aggression. Currently, clozapine may be the only effective antipsychotic medication to repress aggressive behavior. With the current medical field moving toward tailored medicine, it is important to identify vulnerable schizophrenia populations and provide efficient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- WonKyung Cho
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA Universiy School of Medicine, Korea
| | - Won-Suk Shin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA Universiy School of Medicine, Korea
| | - Iseul An
- Clinical Counseling Psychology Graduate School, CHA University, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Minji Bang
- Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Doo-Yeoun Cho
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA Universiy School of Medicine, Korea
| | - Sang-Hyuk Lee
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA Universiy School of Medicine, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
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Manchia M, Comai S, Pinna M, Pinna F, Fanos V, Denovan-Wright E, Carpiniello B. Biomarkers in aggression. Adv Clin Chem 2019; 93:169-237. [PMID: 31655730 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aggressive behavior exerts an enormous impact on society remaining among the main causes of worldwide premature death. Effective primary interventions, relying on predictive models of aggression that show adequate sensitivity and specificity are currently lacking. One strategy to increase the accuracy and precision of prediction would be to include biological data in the predictive models. Clearly, to be included in such models, biological markers should be reliably associated with the specific trait under study (i.e., diagnostic biomarkers). Aggression, however, is phenotypically highly heterogeneous, an element that has hindered the identification of reliable biomarkers. However, current research is trying to overcome these challenges by focusing on more homogenous aggression subtypes and/or by studying large sample size of aggressive individuals. Further advance is coming by bioinformatics approaches that are allowing the integration of inter-species biological data as well as the development of predictive algorithms able to discriminate subjects on the basis of the propensity toward aggressive behavior. In this review we first present a brief summary of the available evidence on neuroimaging of aggression. We will then treat extensively the data on genetic determinants, including those from hypothesis-free genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and candidate gene studies. Transcriptomic and neurochemical biomarkers will then be reviewed, and we will dedicate a section on the role of metabolomics in aggression. Finally, we will discuss how biomarkers can inform the development of new pharmacological tools as well as increase the efficacy of preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Manchia
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Stefano Comai
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute and Vita Salute University, Milano, Italy; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Martina Pinna
- Forensic Psychiatry Unit, Sardinia Health Agency, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Pinna
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Bernardo Carpiniello
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Cognitive impairment in patients with treatment resistant schizophrenia: Associations with DRD2, DRD3, HTR2A, BDNF and CYP2D6 genetic polymorphisms. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.npbr.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a modest but consistent association between violence and schizophrenia. The consequences of serious violence could be catastrophic for the victims, as well as the patients themselves and the community. Any knowledge that would help to prevent acts of serious violence would be of considerable value for the individual and the society. AIM To identify external and clinical risk factors for serious violence in schizophrenia, in addition to considering the strength of the association between the factors assessed and severe violence. METHODS This was accomplished by a literature survey. One-hundred and two relevant papers were identified that were published during the past 20 years. Forty-four papers were assessed for eligibility. In all, 27 studies including clinical or cognitive variables were reviewed systematically. An effect size was reported where an odds ratio (OR) could be identified or calculated from available data. Five external factors and six clinical domains were evaluated. RESULTS Substance abuse is robustly linking schizophrenia and violence. Among the clinical factors, insight, impulsivity, psychopathy, motor speed and a global measure of cognition are the factors with the strongest empirical evidence for an association with severe violence. CONCLUSION This is the first systematic review of risk factors for severe violence in schizophrenia, in which a great number of clinical and external factors have been evaluated. Most of the clinical factors have been compared on effect size. The identified factors that represent an increased risk of violence in patients with schizophrenia should be included in risk assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjørn Rishovd Rund
- a Department of Psychology , University of Oslo, Norway and Vestre Viken Hospital Trust , Oslo , Norway
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Blanco E, Duque LM, Rachamallu V, Yuen E, Kane J, Gallego JA. Predictors of aggression in 3.322 patients with affective disorders and schizophrenia spectrum disorders evaluated in an emergency department setting. Schizophr Res 2018; 195:136-141. [PMID: 29102223 PMCID: PMC6510030 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study is to determine odds of aggression and associated factors in patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (SSD) and affective disorders who were evaluated in an emergency department setting. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted using de-identified data from electronic medical records from 3.322 patients who were evaluated at emergency psychiatric settings. Data extracted included demographic information, variables related to aggression towards people or property in the past 6months, and other factors that could potentially impact the risk of aggression, such as comorbid diagnoses, physical abuse and sexual abuse. Bivariate analyses and multivariate regression analyses were conducted to determine the variables significantly associated with aggression. RESULTS An initial multivariate regression analysis showed that SSD had 3.1 times the odds of aggression, while bipolar disorder had 2.2 times the odds of aggression compared to unipolar depression. A second regression analysis including bipolar subtypes showed, using unipolar depression as the reference group, that bipolar disorder with a recent mixed episode had an odds ratio (OR) of 4.3, schizophrenia had an OR of 2.6 and bipolar disorder with a recent manic episode had an OR of 2.2. Generalized anxiety disorder was associated with lower odds in both regression analyses. CONCLUSION As a whole, the SSD group had higher odds of aggression than the bipolar disorder group. However, after subdividing the groups, schizophrenia had higher odds of aggression than bipolar disorder with a recent manic episode and lower odds of aggression than bipolar disorder with a recent mixed episode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Blanco
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - John Kane
- Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA,The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
| | - Juan A. Gallego
- Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA,The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
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Genetically defined fear-induced aggression: Focus on BDNF and its receptors. Behav Brain Res 2018; 343:102-110. [PMID: 29425916 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), its precursor proBDNF, BDNF pro-peptide, BDNF mRNA levels, as well as TrkB and p75NTR receptors mRNA and protein levels, were studied in the brain of rats, selectively bred for more than 85 generations for either the high level or the lack of fear-induced aggressive behavior. Furthermore, we have found that rats of aggressive strain demonstrated both high level of aggression toward humans and increased amplitude of acoustic startle response compared to rats selectively bred for the lack of fear-induced aggression. Significant increase in the BDNF mRNA, mature BDNF and proBDNF protein levels in the raphe nuclei (RN), hippocampus (Hc), nucleus accumbens (NAcc), amygdala, striatum and hypothalamus (Ht) of aggressive rats was revealed. The BDNF/proBDNF ratio was significantly reduced in the Hc and NAcc of highly aggressive rats suggesting prevalence of the proBDNF in these structures. In the Hc and frontal cortex (FC) of aggressive rats, the level of the full-length TrkB (TrkB-FL) receptor form was decreased, whereas the truncated TrkB (TrkB-T) protein level was increased in the RN, FC, substantia nigra and Ht. The TrkB-FL/TrkB-T ratio was significantly decreased in highly aggressive rats suggesting TrkB-T is predominant in highly aggressive rats. The p75NTR expression was slightly changed in majority of studied brain structures of aggressive rats. The data indicate the BDNF system in the brain of aggressive and nonaggressive animals is extremely different at all levels, from transcription to reception, suggesting significant role of BDNF system in the development of highly aggressive phenotype.
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Do cognitive deficits predict negative emotionality and aggression in schizophrenia? Psychiatry Res 2018; 259:350-357. [PMID: 29120842 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is associated with an elevated risk of aggression. Cognitive deficits have been associated with inpatient aggression and future violence. The relationship between cognitive deficits and violent behavior has however been inconsistent across studies. In addition, studies have failed to inform how cognitive deficits may contribute to aggression in schizophrenia. The current study examined the association of cognitive deficits with schizophrenia-related aggression and violent offending. It also explored the putative mediating role of negative emotionality on the impact of cognitive deficits on aggression. People with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder (N = 78) were recruited from a state hospital. Participants were classified based on their history of violent offending. Participants completed measures of cognition, symptoms, and aggression. Deficits in working memory, reasoning/problem-solving, and verbal learning were the most prioritized for the prediction of violent offender status. Violent offenders demonstrated greater impairments in most cognitive domains especially working memory and verbal learning. Offenders also demonstrated greater negative emotionality, excitement/agitation, and incidents of verbal and physical aggression. Negative emotionality and excitement/agitation fully transmitted the effect of cognitive deficits on impulsive aggression in meditational models. Cognitive deficits increase the risk of impulsive aggression in schizophrenia via inefficient regulation of negative affective states.
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Sedgwick O, Young S, Baumeister D, Greer B, Das M, Kumari V. Neuropsychology and emotion processing in violent individuals with antisocial personality disorder or schizophrenia: The same or different? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2017; 51:1178-1197. [PMID: 28992741 DOI: 10.1177/0004867417731525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess whether there are shared or divergent (a) cognitive and (b) emotion processing characteristics among violent individuals with antisocial personality disorder and/or schizophrenia, diagnoses which are commonly encountered at the interface of mental disorder and violence. Cognition and emotion processing are incorporated into models of violence, and thus an understanding of these characteristics within and between disorder groups may help inform future models and therapeutic targets. METHODS Relevant databases (OVID, Embase, PsycINFO) were searched to identify suitable literature. Meta-analyses comparing cognitive function in violent schizophrenia and antisocial personality disorder to healthy controls were conducted. Neuropsychological studies not comparing these groups to healthy controls, and emotion processing studies, were evaluated qualitatively. RESULTS Meta-analyses indicated lower IQ, memory and executive function in both violent schizophrenia and antisocial personality disorder groups compared to healthy controls. The degree of deficit was consistently larger in violent schizophrenia. Both antisocial personality disorder and violent schizophrenia groups had difficulties in aspects of facial affect recognition, although theory of mind results were less conclusive. Psychopathic traits related positively to experiential emotion deficits across the two disorders. Very few studies explored comorbid violent schizophrenia and antisocial personality disorder despite this being common in clinical practice. CONCLUSION There are qualitatively similar, but quantitatively different, neuropsychological and emotion processing deficits in violent individuals with schizophrenia and antisocial personality disorder which could be developed into transdiagnostic treatment targets for violent behaviour. Future research should aim to characterise specific subgroups of violent offenders, including those with comorbid diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ottilie Sedgwick
- 1 Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,2 Broadmoor Hospital, West London Mental Health Trust, Crowthorne, UK
| | - Susan Young
- 2 Broadmoor Hospital, West London Mental Health Trust, Crowthorne, UK.,3 Centre for Mental Health, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David Baumeister
- 1 Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ben Greer
- 2 Broadmoor Hospital, West London Mental Health Trust, Crowthorne, UK
| | - Mrigendra Das
- 2 Broadmoor Hospital, West London Mental Health Trust, Crowthorne, UK
| | - Veena Kumari
- 4 Research and Development, Sovereign Health Group, San Clemente, CA, USA
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Manchia M, Fanos V. Targeting aggression in severe mental illness: The predictive role of genetic, epigenetic, and metabolomic markers. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 77:32-41. [PMID: 28372995 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Human aggression is a complex and widespread social behavior that is overrepresented in individuals affected by severe mental illness (SMI), such as schizophrenia (SCZ), bipolar disorder (BD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A substantial proportion of the liability threshold for aggressive behavior is determined by genetic factors, and environmental moderators might precipitate the manifestation of this behavioral phenotype through modification of gene expression via the epigenetic machinery. These specific alterations in the genetic and epigenetic make-up of aggressive individuals might determine distinct biochemical signatures detectable through metabolomics. An additional pathophysiological component playing a role in aggressive behavior might be determined by alterations of gut microbiota. Here, we present a selective review of human data on genetic, epigenetic, and metabolomic markers of aggressive behavior in SMI, discussing also the available evidence on the role of microbiome alterations. Clinical implication of these evidences, as well as future perspectives, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Manchia
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Cagliari, Italy; Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy.
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Zai G, Robbins TW, Sahakian BJ, Kennedy JL. A review of molecular genetic studies of neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 72:50-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Kim SW, Lee JY, Kang HJ, Kim SY, Bae KY, Kim JM, Shin IS, Yoon JS. Gender-specific Associations of the Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Val66Met Polymorphism with Neurocognitive and Clinical Features in Schizophrenia. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2016; 14:270-8. [PMID: 27489381 PMCID: PMC4977808 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2016.14.3.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 01/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective To explore associations of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism with cognitive functioning and psychopathology in patients with schizophrenia. Methods We included 133 subjects meeting the DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia who were in the post-acute stage of the disease. BDNF Val66Met genotypes were identified via polymerase chain reaction. The computerized neurocognitive function battery, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS), Social and Occupational Functioning Scale (SOFAS), and the Subjective Well-being under Neuroleptic Treatment (SWN-K) were administered. Gender-stratified sub-analysis was also conducted to identify gender-specific patterns in the findings. Results In male patients, no significant difference in any measure by BDNF genotype was evident. In female patients, scores on the CDSS and total PANSS and all subscales were significantly higher in valine (Val) carriers. In addition, scores on the SOFAS and SWN-K were significantly lower in Val carriers. In terms of neurocognitive measures, female patients with the Val allele had significantly poorer reaction times and fewer correct responses on the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) and the Trail Making Test (Parts A and B). After adjustment of PANSS total scores and log-transformed CDSS scores, CPT outcomes were significantly poorer in female patients with than in those without the Val allele. Conclusion Gender-specific associations of the Val allele with poor neurocognitive function and more severe psychopathology were evident. Further studies are required to explore the mechanisms of these differences and the potential utility of the BDNF genotype as a predictor of outcome in patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Wan Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Ju-Yeon Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hee-Ju Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Seon-Young Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Kyung-Yeol Bae
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jae-Min Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Il-Seon Shin
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Jin-Sang Yoon
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
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Preuss UW, Koller G, Samochowiec A, Zill P, Samochowiec J, Kucharska-Mazur J, Wong J, Soyka M. Serotonin and Dopamine Candidate Gene Variants and Alcohol- and Non-Alcohol-Related Aggression. Alcohol Alcohol 2015; 50:690-9. [DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agv057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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Ahmed AO, Mantini AM, Fridberg DJ, Buckley PF. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurocognitive deficits in people with schizophrenia: a meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2015; 226:1-13. [PMID: 25681004 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2014.12.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Studies suggest that the BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism is associated with the incidence of schizophrenia and neurocognitive functioning. These associations appear to be however somewhat mixed. We conducted two separate meta-analyses to investigate (1) the association between the Val66Met polymorphism and neurocognition in people with schizophrenia and (2) the association between peripheral expression of BDNF and neurocognitive phenotypes. For the first aim, we identified 12 studies and 67 comparisons of Met allele carriers and Val homozygotes. These comparisons included 1890 people with schizophrenia (men=1465, women=553), of whom 972 were Met allele carriers and 918 were Val homozygotes. For the second aim, we identified five studies and 25 correlations of peripheral BDNF and neurocognitive scores. The meta-analysis for the second aim included 414 people with schizophrenia (men=292, women=170). First, we found non-significant difference between the genotype groups on most neurocognitive domains. Second, correlations between peripheral BDNF and neurocognitive phenotypes were minimal but we obtained significant effects for the reasoning and problem-solving domains; thus, higher levels of BDNF expression corresponded to better performance on reasoning/problem-solving tasks. The meta-analyses did not robustly establish an association between BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and neurocognition in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony O Ahmed
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY 10605, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Georgia Regents University, 997 Saint Sebastian Way, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
| | - Andrew M Mantini
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Georgia Regents University, 997 Saint Sebastian Way, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Daniel J Fridberg
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Peter F Buckley
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Georgia Regents University, 997 Saint Sebastian Way, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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Kashiwagi H, Kuroki N, Ikezawa S, Matsushita M, Ishikawa M, Nakagome K, Hirabayashi N, Ikeda M. Neurocognitive features in male patients with schizophrenia exhibiting serious violence: a case control study. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2015; 14:46. [PMID: 26697100 PMCID: PMC4687370 DOI: 10.1186/s12991-015-0086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between violence and neurocognitive function in schizophrenia is unclear. We examined the backgrounds and neurocognitive functions of violent and nonviolent patients with schizophrenia to identify factors associated with serious violence. METHODS Thirty male patients with schizophrenia who were hospitalized after committing serious violent acts were compared with 24 hospitalized male patients with schizophrenia and no history of violence. We evaluated psychiatric symptoms using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and neurocognitive functions using the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS)-Japanese version. RESULTS Repeated-measures analyses of variance on BACS subcomponents z-scores showed that the violent and control groups had different neuropsychological profiles at trend level (p = 0.095). Post hoc analyses of variance indicated that the violent group had significantly better working memory and executive function than the control group. In post hoc ANOVAs also controlling for the effect of the presence of substance abuse on cognitive function, violent or nonviolent group had a significant main effect on executive function but not on working memory. CONCLUSIONS Patient with violent or non-violent schizophrenia have distinct neuropsychological profiles. These results may help develop improved psychosocial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Kashiwagi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Kumamoto Japan ; National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Noriomi Kuroki
- Tokyo Metropolitan Matsuzawa Hospital, Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Ikezawa
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Masateru Matsushita
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Kumamoto Japan
| | - Masanori Ishikawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Nakagome
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Naotsugu Hirabayashi
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo Japan
| | - Manabu Ikeda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Kumamoto Japan
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Refining and integrating schizophrenia pathophysiology – Relevance of the allostatic load concept. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 45:183-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Guan X, Dong ZQ, Tian YY, Wu LN, Gu Y, Hu ZQ, Zhang X. Lack of association between brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met polymorphism and aggressive behavior in schizophrenia. Psychiatry Res 2014; 215:244-5. [PMID: 24289908 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2013.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2012] [Revised: 09/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the association of the Val66Met gene polymorphism in the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) gene with aggressive behavior among Southern Han Chinese schizophrenia patients. We used polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism to determine the genotypes and the Modified Overt Aggression Scale (MOAS) to measure aggressive behavior. No significant differences in genotype or allele distribution of Val66Met were identified between aggressive and non-aggressive schizophrenia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Guan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zai-Quan Dong
- Mental Health Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Tian
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Li-Na Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yan Gu
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ze-Qing Hu
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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The Val66Met polymorphism at the BDNF gene does not influence Wisconsin Card Sorting Test results in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY 2013; 35:44-50. [PMID: 23567599 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbp.2012.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2011] [Accepted: 02/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the role of the Val66Met polymorphism at the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene on the performance of children and adolescents with bipolar disorder [juvenile bipolar disorder (JBD)] on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). METHODS Children and adolescents were assessed by the K-SADS-PL and a clinical evaluation for BD and comorbid conditions. Manic and depressive symptoms were assessed with the Young Mania Rating Scale and the Children Depression Rating Scale - Reviewed. The Val66Met polymorphism at the BDNF was genotyped from a blood sample. Patients' IQ and executive functions were assessed by a standard cognitive flexibility test (WCST). RESULTS Fifty-three subjects were included in the study. No significant difference was observed between the Val/Val and Val/Met+Met/Met groups on any WCST scores in the MANCOVA (F48,5 = .76; p = .59; Perseverative Errors, p = .66; Nonperseverative Errors, p = .58; Categories Completed, p = .34; Attempts to Reach First Category, p=.64; and Percentage of Conceptual Level Responses, p = .99). CONCLUSIONS Our findings from this sample of children and adolescents with BD do not replicate results from studies of adults and suggest the existence of differences in the neurobiology of this disorder across the life cycle. Investigations of larger samples are necessary to confirm these data.
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Schaefer J, Giangrande E, Weinberger DR, Dickinson D. The global cognitive impairment in schizophrenia: consistent over decades and around the world. Schizophr Res 2013; 150:42-50. [PMID: 23911259 PMCID: PMC4196267 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2013.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 382] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Revised: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Schizophrenia results in cognitive impairments as well as positive, negative, and disorganized symptomatology. The present study examines the extent to which these cognitive deficits are generalized across domains, potential moderator variables, and whether the pattern of cognitive findings reported in schizophrenia has remained consistent over time and across cultural and geographic variation. METHOD Relevant publications from 2006 to 2011 were identified through keyword searches in PubMed and an examination of reference lists. Studies were included if they (1) compared the cognitive performance of adult schizophrenia patients and healthy controls, (2) based schizophrenia diagnoses on contemporary diagnostic criteria, (3) reported information sufficient to permit effect size calculation, (4) were reported in English, and (5) reported data for neuropsychological tests falling into at least 3 distinct cognitive domains. A set of 100 non-overlapping studies was identified, and effect sizes (Hedge's g) were calculated for each cognitive variable. RESULTS Consistent with earlier analyses, patients with schizophrenia scored significantly lower than controls across all cognitive tests and domains (grand mean effect size, g=-1.03). Patients showed somewhat larger impairments in the domains of processing speed (g=-1.25) and episodic memory (g=-1.23). Our results also showed few inconsistencies when grouped by geographic region. CONCLUSIONS The present study extends findings from 1980 to 2006 of a substantial, generalized cognitive impairment in schizophrenia, demonstrating that this finding has remained robust over time despite changes in assessment instruments and alterations in diagnostic criteria, and that it manifests similarly in different regions of the world despite linguistic and cultural differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Schaefer
- Genes, Cognition and Psychosis Program and Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, IRP, NIMH, NIH, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1379, Bethesda, Maryland 20892 USA
| | - Evan Giangrande
- Genes, Cognition and Psychosis Program and Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, IRP, NIMH, NIH, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1379, Bethesda, Maryland 20892 USA
| | - Daniel R. Weinberger
- Genes, Cognition and Psychosis Program and Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, IRP, NIMH, NIH, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1379, Bethesda, Maryland 20892 USA,Lieber institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center 855 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21205 USA
| | - Dwight Dickinson
- Genes, Cognition and Psychosis Program and Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, IRP, NIMH, NIH, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1379, Bethesda, Maryland 20892 USA
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Effect of BDNF val66met polymorphism on declarative memory and its neural substrate: A meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2012; 36:2165-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2012.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2011] [Revised: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Hong CJ, Liou YJ, Tsai SJ. Reprint of: Effects of BDNF polymorphisms on brain function and behavior in health and disease. Brain Res Bull 2012; 88:406-17. [PMID: 22677226 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2012.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Revised: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the most abundant neurotrophin in the brain, serves an important role during brain development and in synaptic plasticity. Given its pleiotropic effects in the central nervous system, BDNF has been implicated in cognitive function and personality development as well as the pathogenesis of various psychiatric disorders. Thus, BDNF is considered an attractive candidate gene for the study of healthy and diseased brain function and behaviors. Over the past decade, many studies have tested BDNF genetic association, particularly its functional Val66Met polymorphism, with psychiatric diseases, personality disorders, and cognitive function. Although many reports indicated a possible role for BDNF genetic effects in mental problems or brain function, other reports were unable to replicate the findings. The conflicting results in BDNF genetic studies may result from confounding factors such as age, gender, other environmental factors, sample size, ethnicity and phenotype assessment. Future studies with more homogenous populations, well-controlled confounding factors, and well-defined phenotypes are needed to clarify the BDNF genetic effects on mental diseases and human behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Jee Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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23
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Lu W, Zhang C, Yi Z, Li Z, Wu Z, Fang Y. Association between BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and cognitive performance in antipsychotic-naïve patients with schizophrenia. J Mol Neurosci 2012; 47:505-10. [PMID: 22477643 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-012-9750-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Accepted: 03/08/2012] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is one of the core symptoms in schizophrenia, which reflects the neurodevelopmental deficits in the etiology of this disease. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays an important role in various neurodevelopmental processes. Growing evidence has shown that BDNF may be involved in the etiology of schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to examine the association of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism with cognition in patients with schizophrenia. Various neuropsychological tests including the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised, the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) were employed in a sample of 112 antipsychotic-naïve patients with schizophrenia and 63 healthy controls. We examined the Val66Met polymorphism in the 112 patients and 394 controls. Among the patients, cognition was compared between Met allele carriers and non-Met allele carriers. A wide range of cognitive deficits were demonstrated in the schizophrenic patients, compared with the controls (Ps < 0.01). No significant differences of genotype or allele distribution were identified between patients and controls. The patients with Met allele showed more percent WCST perseverative errors than those without Met allele (P = 0.007). After stratification based on gender, an association between the Met allele and a higher percentage of perseverative errors was found in male patients (P = 0.014), but not in females (P = 0.09). Cognitive performance is broadly impaired in schizophrenic patients. The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism may be involved in the impaired executive function. This effect may have gender-specific characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Lu
- Schizophrenia Program, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
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Mandelman SD, Grigorenko EL. BDNF Val66Met and cognition: all, none, or some? A meta-analysis of the genetic association. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2011; 11:127-36. [PMID: 21980924 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2011.00738.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Val66Met, G196A (rs6265) polymorphism in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor gene, BDNF, located at 11p13, has been associated with a wide range of cognitive functions. Yet, the pattern of results is complex and conflicting. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis that included 23 publications containing 31 independent samples comprised of 7095 individuals. The phenotypes that were examined in this analysis covered a wide variety of cognitive functions and included indicators of general cognitive ability, memory, executive function, visual processing skills and cognitive fluency. The meta-analysis did not establish significant genetic associations between the Val66Met polymorphism and any of the phenotypes that were included.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Mandelman
- Human Development, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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25
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Hong CJ, Liou YJ, Tsai SJ. Effects of BDNF polymorphisms on brain function and behavior in health and disease. Brain Res Bull 2011; 86:287-97. [PMID: 21924328 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2011.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Revised: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the most abundant neurotrophin in the brain, serves an important role during brain development and in synaptic plasticity. Given its pleiotropic effects in the central nervous system, BDNF has been implicated in cognitive function and personality development as well as the pathogenesis of various psychiatric disorders. Thus, BDNF is considered an attractive candidate gene for the study of healthy and diseased brain function and behaviors. Over the past decade, many studies have tested BDNF genetic association, particularly its functional Val66Met polymorphism, with psychiatric diseases, personality disorders, and cognitive function. Although many reports indicated a possible role for BDNF genetic effects in mental problems or brain function, other reports were unable to replicate the findings. The conflicting results in BDNF genetic studies may result from confounding factors such as age, gender, other environmental factors, sample size, ethnicity and phenotype assessment. Future studies with more homogenous populations, well-controlled confounding factors, and well-defined phenotypes are needed to clarify the BDNF genetic effects on mental diseases and human behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Jee Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Abstract
There is much evidence that schizophrenia patients have an increased risk for aggression and violent behavior, including homicide. The neurobiological basis and correlates of this risk have not been much studied. While genome-wide association studies are lacking, a number of candidate genes have been investigated. By far, the most intensively studied is the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene on chromosome 22. COMT is involved in the metabolism of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter in schizophrenia pathophysiology. Several studies suggest that the Val158Met polymorphism of this gene affects COMT activity. Methionine (Met)/Met homozygote schizophrenia patients show 4- to 5-fold lower COMT activity than valine (Val)/Val homozygotes, and some but not all studies have found an association with aggression and violence. Recently, a new functional single-nucleotide polymorphism in the COMT gene, Ala72Ser, was found to be associated with homicidal behavior in schizophrenia, but this finding warrants further replication. Studies published so far indicate that an association with the monoamine oxidase A, B, or tryptophan hydroxylase 1 genes is unlikely. Data for the brain-derived neurotrophic factor gene are conflicting and limited. Data from the limited number of neuroimaging studies performed to date are interesting. Frontal and temporal lobe abnormalities are found consistently in aggressive schizophrenia patients. Positron emission tomography and single photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT) data indicate deficits also in the orbitofrontal and temporal cortex. Some functional magnetic resonance imaging studies found a negative association of violent behavior with frontal and right-sided inferior parietal activity. Neuroimaging studies may well help further elucidate the interrelationship between neurocognitive functioning, personality traits, and antisocial and violent behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Soyka
- Psychiatric Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University, Nussbaumstrasse 7, 80336 Munich, Germany.
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Kurnianingsih YA, Kuswanto CN, McIntyre RS, Qiu A, Ho BC, Sim K. Neurocognitive-genetic and neuroimaging-genetic research paradigms in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2011; 118:1621-39. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-011-0672-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 06/05/2011] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in neuroplasticity related to schizophrenia and the recent findings that have been reported on the status of BDNF in patients with schizophrenia and its association with the clinical measures. RECENT FINDINGS Peripheral BDNF levels have been found altered in first-episode patients with psychosis and also in chronic schizophrenia patients. A few studies have reported changes in peripheral BDNF levels following antipsychotic treatment. The role of Val66Met polymorphism in BDNF has been shown to play an important role in structural and functional plasticity in schizophrenia. SUMMARY Although peripheral BDNF levels hold promise for providing new perspectives for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of schizophrenia, additional studies including efforts to prove its potential as a biomarker are warranted.
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