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Blood DHEAS concentrations correlate with cognitive function in chronic schizophrenia patients: a pilot study
Henry Silver1, Gabriella Knoll, Victoria Isakov
1Brain Behavior Laboratory, Sha'ar Menashe Mental Health Center, Mobile Post Hefer 38814, Israel. mdsilver@tx.technion.ac.il
Journal of Psychiatric Research
|September 15, 2005
Summary
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels may be linked to cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. This pilot study found associations between DHEAS and verbal memory, executive function, and facial memory in patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Neurosteroids like dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) are known to influence cognitive processes.
- Cognitive impairment is a core feature of schizophrenia, significantly impacting patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential association between blood DHEAS levels and cognitive function in individuals with chronic schizophrenia.
- To explore the relationship between the DHEAS/Cortisol ratio and cognitive performance.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 26 stable, medicated chronic schizophrenia patients.
- Assessment of cognitive domains including verbal memory, executive function, facial memory, object memory, and facial emotion recognition.
- Assay of morning blood samples for DHEAS and cortisol levels.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were identified between DHEAS levels, the DHEAS/Cortisol ratio, and performance in verbal memory, executive function, and facial memory.
- These relationships remained significant even after accounting for age-related decreases in DHEAS.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary findings suggest a potential role for DHEAS in cognitive impairment observed in schizophrenia.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms linking DHEAS to cognitive function in this patient population.