New Study Explores Brain Connectivity in Transition from Early to Chronic Psychosis
Recent research from Yale University has shed light on the neurobiological changes involved in the progression from early to chronic psychosis. The study, published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, investigates how brain networks evolve as psychotic symptoms develop and intensify. Patients in the early stages of psychosis often respond better to treatment, whereas those with chronic psychosis tend to experience more relapses and less effective interventions. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing targeted prevention strategies.
Using large datasets, including the Human Connectome Project Early Psychosis (HCP-EP) and the SRPBS Multi-disorder Connectivity dataset, researchers examined brain connectivity patterns in patients with early and chronic psychosis. They employed machine learning models on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to predict symptom severity. The findings highlighted that disruptions in the frontoparietal network—responsible for cognitive flexibility and control—are significant in both early and chronic stages. Negative symptoms, such as diminished motivation and social withdrawal, appear linked to disturbances in this network.
This neurobiological insight could enable clinicians to track symptom-related brain network changes over time, potentially predicting when patients might transition from early to more severe stages. The researchers emphasize that further longitudinal studies are needed to observe how these networks evolve across the lifespan of psychosis. Ultimately, such research could inform personalized treatment plans, improve early intervention efforts, and prevent symptom worsening.
This study offers promising directions for understanding the brain mechanisms underlying psychosis and highlights the importance of early detection and ongoing monitoring in mental health care.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-brain-networks-transition-early-chronic.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Insurers Challenge State Laws Limiting Surprise Ambulance Bills
Many families face unexpected and costly ambulance bills, prompting states to pass laws protecting consumers, though insurers often oppose these efforts. This article explores the ongoing battle over surprise ambulance billing and the need for nationwide regulation.
Mapping Gaze Development Across the Human Lifespan with Eye-Tracking Technology
A recent study reveals that gaze behavior during scene viewing develops gradually, not fully maturing until the early twenties, highlighting the prolonged nature of visual development across the human lifespan.
Enhanced Neurosurgical Training with Human-AI Collaboration, Study Shows
A groundbreaking study reveals that combining human instruction with AI guidance significantly improves neurosurgical training outcomes, paving the way for smarter surgical education and safer patient care.
Understanding Wilms Tumors: The Role of Genes and Imprinting in Childhood Kidney Cancer
New insights into Wilms tumor development reveal the crucial roles of genetic mutations and imprinting disruptions, paving the way for improved diagnosis and personalized treatment for children with kidney cancer.