Dopamina

Dopamina This Article Abstract and Introduction The current hypothesis of DA in schizophrenia is that this disorder is associated with decreased DA activity in the prefrontal cortex, together with DA hyperactivity in subcortical areas. In the present review we focused on PhMRI studies that investigate the effect of atypical antipsychotics on brain activity in schizophrenia patients. Although PhMRI is not suitable for direct measurements of neurotransmitter status, this technique can be used to explore cognitive and emotional brain functioning during pharmacological manipulation. In addition, PhMRI has several other advantages, including superior temporal and spatial resolution, and absence of radiation exposure. Hence, PhMRI may rival PET/SPECT as a tool for investigating the DA imbalance in schizophrenia, particularly in longitudinal designs. In agreement with the revised DA hypothesis, the PhMRI studies presented here have confirmed decreased activity in prefrontal cortex in schizophrenia and demonstrated improved function of prefrontal cortex and striatum, following DA modulation with atypical antipsychotics. In addition, atypical antipsychotics improved cognition and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, reflecting enhancement of DA activity. DA is certainly one of the main neurotransmitters involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Nevertheless, genetic variations and interactions with other neurotransmitters are critical factors involved in the etiology of this disease. Further studies are necessary to clarify these interactions