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Pan X, Su W, Wang Z, Jin X, Chen Z, Jin H, Chen H. Correlations between Immunoinflammatory Factor Levels and Cognitive Functions and Brain Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features among Patients with Primary Schizophrenia. ACTAS ESPANOLAS DE PSIQUIATRIA 2024; 52:464-473. [PMID: 39129687 PMCID: PMC11319761 DOI: 10.62641/aep.v52i4.1672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is associated with significant cognitive impairment. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia remain unclear. Based on the latest concept of cognition, immunoinflammatory factors and structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) features of the brain are considered markers of schizophrenia. This study explored the correlations between cognitive function and immunoinflammatory factors and sMRI in primary schizophrenia patients. METHODS Non-interventional cross-sectional study was conducted, including 21 patients with primary schizophrenia, who were identified based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) and grouped under the observation group. Thirty healthy volunteers with age, gender, hand dominance, and education duration matched with those of the primary schizophrenia patients were recruited to the control group. All subjects underwent sMRI examination. MATRICS consensus cognitive battery (MCCB) was employed to assess the cognitive functions among patients with primary schizophrenia. The levels of serum amyloid A (SAA), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), and chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) were measured by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pearson's correlation analysis was carried out to analyze the correlation between immunoinflammatory factor levels and cognitive functions as well as brain sMRI features. RESULTS The scores for all MCCB items and the total score for the observation group were apparently lower than those for the control group (p < 0.001), while the YKL-40 and SAA levels were notably higher in the observation group (t = 3.406, p < 0.05; t = 5.656, p < 0.001). Compared to the control group, the observation group exhibited reduced volumes of left and right insular lobes, left and right anterior cingulate cortexes, left and right hippocampi, right parahippocampal gyrus, right amygdala, left inferior occipital lobe, left superior temporal lobe, left temporal pole, and left middle and inferior temporal lobes (p < 0.001). The levels of YKL-40 and SAA were both negatively correlated with MCCB score (r = -0.3668, p = 0.004; r = -0.8495, p < 0.001). The volumes of right insular lobe, left and right anterior cingulate cortexes, right parahippocampal gyrus, right amygdala, and gray matter in left middle temporal lobe were all negatively correlated with the levels of YKL-40 and SAA (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Cognitive impairment in patients with primary schizophrenia is associated with increased serum SAA and YKL-40 levels and decreased gray matter volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Pan
- Department of Psychiatry, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Psychiatry, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhenhua Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xilong Jin
- Department of Psychiatry, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zinan Chen
- Department of Radiology, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haiying Jin
- Department of Psychiatry, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haizhi Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Huzhou Third Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, 313000 Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Li M, Luo G, Qiu Y, Zhang X, Sun X, Li Y, Zhao Y, Sun W, Yang S, Li J. Negative symptoms and neurocognition in drug-naïve schizophrenia: moderating role of plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and interferon-gamma (INF-γ). Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024; 274:1071-1081. [PMID: 37490111 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-023-01650-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies reported that peripheral inflammation was associated with cognitive performance and brain structure in schizophrenia. However, the moderating effect of inflammation has not been extensively studied. This study investigated whether inflammation markers moderated the association between negative symptoms and neurocognition in schizophrenia. This cross-sectional study included 137 drug-naïve schizophrenia patients (DNS) and 67 healthy controls (HC). We performed the Measurements and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) for cognitive assessment and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for psychiatric symptoms. Plasma concentrations of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) were measured. The MCCB neurocognition score, social cognition score, and total score; the plasma concentrations of NGAL, IFN-γ, and NF-κB were significantly decreased in DNS than in HC (all P's < 0.001). PANSS negative subscale (PNS), PANSS reduced expressive subdomain (RES) negatively correlated with neurocognition score (P = 0.007; P = 0.011, respectively). Plasma concentrations of IFN-γ and NGAL positively correlated with neurocognition score (P = 0.043; P = 0.008, relatively). The interactions of PNS × NGAL; PNS × IFN-γ; RES × IFN-γ accounted for significant neurocognition variance (P = 0.025; P = 0.029, P = 0.007, respectively). Simple slope analysis showed that all the above moderating effects only occurred in patients with near normal IFN-γ and NGAL levels. Plasma concentrations of IFN-γ and NGAL moderated the relationship between negative symptoms (especially RES) and neurocognition in schizophrenia. Treatment targeting inflammation may contribute to neurocognition improvement in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijuan Li
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Guoshuai Luo
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Yuying Qiu
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
- Chifeng Anding Hospital, Chifeng, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Sun
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Yanzhe Li
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Yongping Zhao
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Shu Yang
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Jie Li
- Tianjin Mental Health Institute, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, 13 Liulin Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300222, China.
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Karahan A, Manzak Saka I, Sağlam Aykut D, Civil Arslan F, Selçuk Özmen E, Özkorumak Karagüzel E. The relationship between peripheral immune cell markers and cognitive functions in patients with schizophrenia. Int J Psychiatry Med 2024:912174241266059. [PMID: 39031556 DOI: 10.1177/00912174241266059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between peripheral immune cell markers and cognitive functions in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls. METHODS Thirty-five patients diagnosed with schizophrenia with a stable course and a control group of 35 individuals matched in terms of sex, education, and age were included in this cross-sectional study. The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), and the Stroop Test were used for neuropsychological evaluation. Blood neutrophil and lymphocyte percentages, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) values were calculated. RESULTS The female patients exhibited significantly higher NLR and neutrophil percentages than the female controls and higher NLR, neutrophil percentage, and SII than the male patients. The increased neutrophil percentages and NLR and decreased lymphocyte percentages in the female patients were significantly correlated with worsening Stroop interference and RAVLT 1 scores. Additionally, a longer duration of illness was significantly correlated with elevated NLR, SII, and neutrophil percentage and a decreased lymphocyte percentage. A higher number of previous hospitalizations was correlated with elevated SII and decreased lymphocyte percentages. Regression analysis showed a significant association between neutrophil percentages and Stroop interference scores used to evaluate attentional functions in patients with schizophrenia. CONCLUSIONS These study results suggest that gender and the course of the illness may affect NLR and SII values. An elevated neutrophil percentage may be one of the factors affecting attentional dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia. Prospective studies are now needed to verify these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aykut Karahan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | | | - Demet Sağlam Aykut
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Filiz Civil Arslan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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Varden Gjerde K, Bartz-Johannessen C, Steen VM, Andreassen OA, Steen NE, Ueland T, Lekva T, Rettenbacher M, Joa I, Reitan SK, Johnsen E, Kroken RA. Cellular adhesion molecules in drug-naïve and previously medicated patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Schizophr Res 2024; 267:223-229. [PMID: 38574562 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2024.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial inflammation may be involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, and cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) on endothelial cells may facilitate leukocyte binding and transendothelial migration of cells and inflammatory factors. The aim of the present study was to assess levels of soluble cellular adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, vascular adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1, mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule (MADCAM), junctional adhesion molecule (JAM-A) and neural cadherin (N-CAD) in patients with schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. METHODS The study population consists of 138 patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder, of whom 54 were drug-naïve, compared to 317 general population controls. The potential confounders age, gender, smoking and body mass index (BMI) were adjusted for in linear regression models. RESULTS The total patient group showed significantly higher levels of ICAM-1 (p < 0.001) and VCAM-1 (p < 0.001) compared to controls. Previously medicated patients showed higher ICAM-1 levels compared to drug-naïve patients (p = 0.042) and controls (p < 0.001), and elevated VCAM-1 levels compared to controls (p < 0.001). Drug-naive patients had elevated levels of VCAM-1 (p = 0.031) compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS In our study, patients with schizophrenia - including the drug-naïve - have higher levels of soluble CAMs compared to healthy controls. These findings suggest activation of the endothelial system as in inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Varden Gjerde
- NKS Olaviken Gerontopsychiatric Hospital, Erdal, Norway; Department of Clinical Medicine (K1), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
| | | | - Vidar Martin Steen
- NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Department of Clinical Science (K2), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Dr. Einar Martens Research Group for Biological Psychiatry, Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ole A Andreassen
- NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nils Eiel Steen
- NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thor Ueland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Clinical Medicine, Thrombosis Research Center, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tove Lekva
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Rettenbacher
- Medical University of Innsbruck; Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Inge Joa
- TIPS Center for Clinical Research in Psychosis, Division of Psychiatry, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway; Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Solveig Klæbo Reitan
- St. Olav University Hospital, Nidelv community mental health centre, Trondheim, Norway; Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Mental Health, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Erik Johnsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine (K1), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rune Andreas Kroken
- Department of Clinical Medicine (K1), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; NORMENT Centre of Excellence, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Adamowicz DH, Wu TC, Daly R, Irwin MR, Jeste DV, Tu XM, Eyler LT, Lee EE. Executive functioning trajectories and their prospective association with inflammatory biomarkers in schizophrenia and non-psychiatric comparison participants. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 128:110866. [PMID: 37742747 PMCID: PMC10829566 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS Cognitive change in people with schizophrenia (PwS) is challenging to assess, but important to understand. Previous studies with limited age ranges and follow-up were subject to practice effects. Controlling for practice effects in a well-established cohort, we examined executive functioning trajectories and their association with inflammatory biomarkers, hypothesizing that PwS will have worsening executive functioning over time compared to non-psychiatric comparison participants (NCs), predicted by higher baseline inflammation with a stronger relationship in PwS than NCs. STUDY DESIGN Executive functioning was assessed in 350 participants (n = 186 PwS, 164 NCs) at 12-16-month intervals (0 to 7 follow-up visits). Inflammatory biomarkers at baseline included high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP), Interferon-gamma, Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-alpha, and Interleukin(IL)-6, -8, and - 10. Executive functioning trajectories across diagnostic groups were estimated using a linear mixed-effects model controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and education level, with additional models to assess prediction by baseline inflammation. STUDY RESULTS Over 4.4 years average follow-up, improvements in executive functioning were attenuated in PwS and older participants. Controlling for practice effects negated improvements, revealing declines among highly educated participants regardless of diagnosis. Higher baseline hs-CRP predicted worse executive functioning only among NCs, while TNF-alpha was predictive of change in all participants only after controlling for practice effects. Only the main effect of hs-CRP on executive function was significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. None of the other inflammatory biomarkers predicted executive functioning or trajectories of performance among study participants. CONCLUSIONS Systemic inflammation as reflected by baseline inflammatory biomarker levels did not predict longitudinal declines in executive functioning. Additional studies examining the temporal dynamics of inflammation and cognition in PwS will help further clarify their relationship and associated mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Adamowicz
- Mass General Brigham, Department of Psychiatry, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Tsung-Chin Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Rebecca Daly
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Michael R Irwin
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Dilip V Jeste
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Xin M Tu
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Lisa T Eyler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Desert-Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.
| | - Ellen E Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Desert-Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.
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Chandra A, Miller BJ, Goldsmith DR. Predictors of successful anti-inflammatory drug trials in patients with schizophrenia: A meta-regression and critical commentary. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 114:154-162. [PMID: 37607662 PMCID: PMC10592013 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Given evidence pointing toward a role for immune dysregulation in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, anti-inflammatory agents are promising adjunctive treatments that have potential to support a causal relationship for inflammation and psychopathology and lead to novel treatments for individuals. Indeed, previous meta-analyses have demonstrated small-to-medium effect sizes (ES) in favor of various anti-inflammatory agents, though there is significant heterogeneity and challenges in the interpretation of this literature. Identifying predictors, including sociodemographic variables, trial duration, and/or symptoms themselves, of successful anti-inflammatory trials may help identify which patients who might benefit from these compounds. We performed a meta-regression analysis of 63 adjunctive anti-inflammatory trial arms (2232 patients randomized to adjunctive anti-inflammatory agents and 2207 patients randomized to placebo).Potential predictors of effect size estimates for changes in psychopathology scores from baseline to endpoint included geography, trial duration, sample size, age, sex, race, smoking, body mass index, illness duration, age of onset of psychosis, study quality score and psychopathology scores (total and subscale) at baseline. Geography (β = 0.31, p = 0.011), smaller sample size (β = 0.33, p = 0.009), and higher study quality score (β = 0.44, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of larger ES estimates for change in total psychopathology in favor of anti-inflammatory agents. Smaller sample size (β = 0.37, p = 0.034) and higher study quality score (β = 0.55, p = 0.003) were significant predictors of larger ES estimates for change in negative psychopathology in favor of anti-inflammatory agents. Higher study quality score (β = 0.46, p = 0.019) was a significant predictor of larger ES estimates for change in general psychopathology in favor of anti-inflammatory agents. These findings should be interpreted with caution given concerns of publication bias regarding the geographic differences and small study effects. The lack of an association with other demographic variables should be seen as a primary limitation of the literature that needs to be considered in future studies. The association with study quality score suggests that future anti-inflammatory trials must consider demographic variables known to be associated with inflammation (e.g., BMI and smoking) and evidence of increased baseline inflammation should be incorporated in study design. Moreover, evidence of target engagement and endpoints thoughts to be associated with increased inflammation should be considered as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Chandra
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Brian J Miller
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - David R Goldsmith
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.
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Zhuo C, Hu S, Chen G, Yang L, Cai Z, Tian H, Jiang D, Chen C, Wang L, Ma X, Li R. Low-dose lithium adjunct to atypical antipsychotic treatment nearly improved cognitive impairment, deteriorated the gray-matter volume, and decreased the interleukin-6 level in drug-naive patients with first schizophrenia symptoms: a follow-up pilot study. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 9:71. [PMID: 37838729 PMCID: PMC10576794 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-023-00400-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of long-term low-dose lithium adjunct to antipsychotic agent use on the cognitive performance, whole-brain gray-matter volume (GMV), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) level in drug-naive patients with first-episode schizophrenia, and to examine relationships among these factors. In this double-blind randomized controlled study, 50 drug-naive patients with first-episode schizophrenia each took low-dose (250 mg/day) lithium and placebo (of the same shape and taste) adjunct to antipsychotic agents (mean, 644.70 ± 105.58 and 677.00 ± 143.33 mg/day chlorpromazine equivalent, respectively) for 24 weeks. At baseline and after treatment completion, the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) was used to assess cognitive performance, 3-T magnetic resonance imaging was performed to assess structural brain alterations, and serum IL-6 levels were quantified by immunoassay. Treatment effects were assessed within and between patient groups. Relationships among cognitive performance, whole-brain GMVs, and the IL-6 level were investigated by partial correlation analysis. Relative to baseline, patients in the lithium group showed improved working memory, verbal learning, processing speed, and reasoning/problem solving after 24 weeks of treatment; those in the placebo group showed only improved working memory and verbal learning. The composite MCCB score did not differ significantly between groups. The whole-brain GMV reduction was significantly lesser in the lithium group than in the placebo group (0.46% vs. 1.03%; P < 0.001). The GMV and IL-6 reduction ratios correlated with each other in both groups (r = -0.17, P = 0.025). In the lithium group, the whole-brain GMV reduction ratio correlated with the working memory improvement ratio (r = -0.15, P = 0.030) and processing speed (r = -0.14, P = 0.036); the IL-6 reduction ratio correlated with the working memory (r = -0.21, P = 0.043) and verbal learning (r = -0.30, P = 0.031) improvement ratios. In the placebo group, the whole-brain GMV reduction ratio correlated only with the working memory improvement ratio (r = -0.24, P = 0.019); the IL-6 reduction ratio correlated with the working memory (r = -0.17, P = 0.022) and verbal learning (r = -0.15, P = 0.011) improvement ratios. Both treatments implemented in this study nearly improved the cognitive performance of patients with schizophrenia; relative to placebo, low-dose lithium had slightly greater effects on several aspects of cognition. The patterns of correlation among GMV reduction, IL-6 reduction, and cognitive performance improvement differed between groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanjun Zhuo
- Key Laboratory of Sensor Information Processing Abnormalities in Schizophrenia (SIPAS-Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin, 300140, China.
- Department of Psychiatry, Wenzhou Seventh Peoples Hospital, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
- Laboratory of Psychiatric-Neuroimaging-Genetic and Co-morbidity (PNGC_Lab), Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin, 300222, China.
| | - Shuiqing Hu
- Key Laboratory of Sensor Information Processing Abnormalities in Schizophrenia (SIPAS-Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin, 300140, China
| | - Guangdong Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Wenzhou Seventh Peoples Hospital, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Sensor Information Processing Abnormalities in Schizophrenia (SIPAS-Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin, 300140, China
| | - Ziyao Cai
- Department of Psychiatry, Wenzhou Seventh Peoples Hospital, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Hongjun Tian
- Key Laboratory of Sensor Information Processing Abnormalities in Schizophrenia (SIPAS-Lab), Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Fourth Center Hospital, Tianjin, 300140, China
| | - Deguo Jiang
- Department of Psychiatry, Wenzhou Seventh Peoples Hospital, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Chunmian Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Wenzhou Seventh Peoples Hospital, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Lina Wang
- Laboratory of Psychiatric-Neuroimaging-Genetic and Co-morbidity (PNGC_Lab), Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ma
- Laboratory of Psychiatric-Neuroimaging-Genetic and Co-morbidity (PNGC_Lab), Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin, 300222, China
| | - Ranli Li
- Laboratory of Psychiatric-Neuroimaging-Genetic and Co-morbidity (PNGC_Lab), Nankai University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Medical University Affiliated Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin Mental Health Center of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Anding Hospital, Tianjin, 300222, China
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Jeste DV, Malaspina D, Bagot K, Barch DM, Cole S, Dickerson F, Dilmore A, Ford CL, Karcher NR, Luby J, Rajji T, Pinto-Tomas AA, Young LJ. Review of Major Social Determinants of Health in Schizophrenia-Spectrum Psychotic Disorders: III. Biology. Schizophr Bull 2023; 49:867-880. [PMID: 37023360 PMCID: PMC10318888 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbad031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social determinants of health (SDoHs) are nonmedical factors that significantly impact health and longevity. We found no published reviews on the biology of SDoHs in schizophrenia-spectrum psychotic disorders (SSPD). STUDY DESIGN We present an overview of pathophysiological mechanisms and neurobiological processes plausibly involved in the effects of major SDoHs on clinical outcomes in SSPD. STUDY RESULTS This review of the biology of SDoHs focuses on early-life adversities, poverty, social disconnection, discrimination including racism, migration, disadvantaged neighborhoods, and food insecurity. These factors interact with psychological and biological factors to increase the risk and worsen the course and prognosis of schizophrenia. Published studies on the topic are limited by cross-sectional design, variable clinical and biomarker assessments, heterogeneous methods, and a lack of control for confounding variables. Drawing on preclinical and clinical studies, we propose a biological framework to consider the likely pathogenesis. Putative systemic pathophysiological processes include epigenetics, allostatic load, accelerated aging with inflammation (inflammaging), and the microbiome. These processes affect neural structures, brain function, neurochemistry, and neuroplasticity, impacting the development of psychosis, quality of life, cognitive impairment, physical comorbidities, and premature mortality. Our model provides a framework for research that could lead to developing specific strategies for prevention and treatment of the risk factors and biological processes, thereby improving the quality of life and increasing the longevity of people with SSPD. CONCLUSIONS Biology of SDoHs in SSPD is an exciting area of research that points to innovative multidisciplinary team science for improving the course and prognosis of these serious psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip V Jeste
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego (Retired), CA, USA
| | - Dolores Malaspina
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neuroscience and Genetics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kara Bagot
- Department of Psychiatry, Addiction Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deanna M Barch
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Psychiatry, and Radiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Steve Cole
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, and Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Faith Dickerson
- Department of Psychology, Sheppard Pratt, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amanda Dilmore
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Charles L Ford
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nicole R Karcher
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joan Luby
- Department of Psychiatry (Child), Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tarek Rajji
- Adult Neurodevelopment and Geriatric Psychiatry Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adrián A Pinto-Tomas
- Biochemistry Department, School of Medicine, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Larry J Young
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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9
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Pu Z, Wen H, Jiang H, Hou Q, Yan H. Berberine improves negative symptoms and cognitive function in patients with chronic schizophrenia via anti-inflammatory effect: a randomized clinical trial. Chin Med 2023; 18:41. [PMID: 37069570 PMCID: PMC10108529 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00746-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Based on the neuroinflammation hypothesis in schizophrenia and known anti-inflammatory effects of berberine, the aim of the present study is to investigate the efficacy of berberine in treating negative symptoms and cognitive deficits in adult patients with chronic schizophrenia. METHODS Enrolled participants were randomized to receive berberine or placebo for 3 months. The Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), Trail-making Test A (TMT-A), Trail-making Test B (TMT-B), and Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT) were used to evaluate the negative symptoms and cognitive function at four-time points (baseline, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd month). Serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were used as inflammatory markers. 106 patients with per-protocol were analyzed, 56 in the experimental (berberine) group and 50 in the control (placebo) group. RESULTS From baseline to month 3, patients receiving berberine demonstrated a decrease in total scores on clinical scales SANS, TMT-A and TMT-B and showed a serum level reduction of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α comparing with patients in the control group (P < 0.05). There were positive correlations between the change of serum IL-1β level and the change of SANS (r = 0.210, P = 0.039), TMT-A (r = 0.522, P < 0.001), and TMT-B (r = 0.811, P < 0.001); between the change of serum IL-6 level and the change of TMT-A (r = 0.562, P < 0.001), and TMT-B (r = 0.664, P < 0.001); between the change of serum TNF-α level and the change of TMT-B (r = 0.472, P < 0.001) after berberine treatment. CONCLUSIONS Berberine is an anti-inflammatory agent that can potentially mitigate the negative symptoms and cognitive deficits in patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengping Pu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kangci Hospital of Jiaxing, No. 3118 Huancheng North Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Minhang, Shanghai, 201108, China
| | - Hui Wen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Second People's Hospital of Tongxiang, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hongxia Jiang
- Department of Psychiatry, Kangci Hospital of Jiaxing, No. 3118 Huancheng North Road, Tongxiang, 314500, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Qingmei Hou
- Department of Clinical Psychology, The Second Specialized Hospital of Hegang, Hegang, 154102, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hui Yan
- Department of Psychiatry, Second People's Hospital of Taizhou, Taizhou, 317200, Zhejiang, China
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10
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Patlola SR, Donohoe G, McKernan DP. The relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and cognitive dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 121:110668. [PMID: 36283512 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder that includes positive and negative symptoms but also debilitating cognitive deficits. Current pharmacological interventions do not target these deficits. Recent evidence suggests a connection between some inflammatory markers (including C-reactive protein) and cognitive impairment, but did not address other inflammatory markers. In the current study, we try to fill the gap by focusing on the association of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and CRP with cognitive dysfunction. METHODS PUBMED and Web of Science databases were searched for all studies published until July 2022. A total of 25 studies were included in an analysis of the association between cognitive performance and variation in IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and CRP. RESULTS A total of 2398 patients were included in this study. Meta-analyses results showed a significant inverse relationship between performance in five cognitive domains (attention-processing speed, executive function, working memory, verbal and visual learning and memory) and systemic IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and CRP plasma levels in patients with schizophrenia. The meta-analyses results showed a significant decline in the cognitive performances with the evaluated inflammatory markers with effect sizes ranging from -0.136 to -0.181 for IL-6, -0.188 to -0.38 for TNF-α -0.372 to -0.476 for IL-1β and - 0.168 to -0.311 for CRP. CONCLUSION Findings from the current study shows that cognitive deficits are reflective of elevated proinflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and CRP) levels. The results obtained indicate relatedness between inflammation and cognitive decline in patients with schizophrenia. Understanding the underlying pathways between them could have a significant impact on the disease progression and quality of life in schizophrenia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saahithh Redddi Patlola
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
| | - Gary Donohoe
- School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
| | - Declan P McKernan
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland.
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11
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Demir N, Yıldırım O. A Comparison of the Relationship Between C-Reactive Protein Levels and Cognitive Functions in Patients with Schizophrenia, First-Episode Psychosis, and Healthy Controls. PSYCHIAT CLIN PSYCH 2022; 32:274-284. [PMID: 38764885 PMCID: PMC11082596 DOI: 10.5152/pcp.2022.22447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background There are several hypotheses on what causes schizophrenia, some of which include inflammatory responses. Additionally, it might be challenging to control and treat cognitive abnormalities, which represent the primary symptoms, and may be related to inflammation. This study aims to determine whether there is a relationship between C-reactive protein levels and cognitive abilities by assessing neuropsychological tests of drug-free patients with schizophrenia and first-episode psychosis. Methods The patient group consisted of 36 patients with schizophrenia or "first-episode psychosis," while the control group comprised 31 healthy people. The control group consisted of healthy participants without any medical or psychiatric diseases. Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 axis I disorders was applied for diagnosis, while Wisconsin card sorting test, Stroop color and word test, trail making tests, Rey auditory verbal learning test, and digit span test were applied for cognitive assessment of both groups. Clinical characteristics of patients were evaluated by using the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms, the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms, and the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia. The patient group and healthy control group were evaluated in terms of inflammation levels. The C-reactive protein levels were measured, and their relationship with cognitive status was examined. The serum samples were analyzed by the immunoturbidimetric method in C-reactive protein C8000 Architect (Abbott, Ill, USA) to measure the C-reactive protein levels. Results C-reactive protein levels were found to be higher in the patient group (P = .003), while the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms and Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms scores were found to be positively correlated with C-reactive protein levels. Cognitive functions in the patient group were significantly lower compared to the healthy group. There was a statistically weak correlation between C-reactive protein and the number of word color reading errors in the Stroop test, which was associated with complex and frontal attention; however, no correlation was found with digit span test, Rey auditory verbal learning test, or Wisconsin card sorting test points. Conclusion Elevated peripheral levels of C-reactive protein are associated with poorer cognitive function in patients with first-episode psychosis and schizophrenia, particularly, complex attention associated with the Stroop test. Inflammation may have an impact on cognitive impairment in psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nefise Demir
- Department of Psychiatry, Karabük University, School of Medicine, Karabük, Turkey
| | - Osman Yıldırım
- Department of Psychiatry, Reyap Hospital İstanbul, İstanbul Rumeli University, İstanbul, Turkey
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12
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Wang Y, Meng W, Liu Z, An Q, Hu X. Cognitive impairment in psychiatric diseases: Biomarkers of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:1046692. [DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1046692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and major depressive disorder, place a huge health burden on society. Cognitive impairment is one of the core characteristics of psychiatric disorders and a vital determinant of social function and disease recurrence in patients. This review thus aims to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of cognitive impairment in major psychiatric disorders and identify valuable biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of patients.
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