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Exploring effects of EAAT polymorphisms on cognitive functions in schizophrenia
Marco Spangaro1, Marta Bosia, Andrea Zanoletti
1San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffale University, Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127 Milano, Italy.
Pharmacogenomics
|June 24, 2014
Summary
Genetic variations in excitatory amino acid transporters (EAAT1 and EAAT2) impact cognitive function in schizophrenia. Lower EAAT expression correlated with poorer cognitive performance in patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Schizophrenia is characterized by significant cognitive dysfunction.
- Excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs) play crucial roles in neurotransmission and neuronal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between functional polymorphisms in EAAT1 (rs4354668) and EAAT2 (rs2731880) and cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
- To determine if specific genotypes influence cognitive performance in schizophrenia patients.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 192 schizophrenia patients were genotyped for EAAT1 (rs4354668) and EAAT2 (rs2731880) polymorphisms.
- Cognitive functions were assessed using standardized tests including the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Continuous Performance Test, and N-back test.
Main Results:
- Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences in cognitive measures across different EAAT1 and EAAT2 genotype groups.
- Individuals carrying genotypes associated with lower EAAT expression exhibited worse performance on cognitive tasks.
Conclusions:
- Impaired EAAT activity and expression are implicated in cognitive dysfunction observed in schizophrenia.
- EAATs represent a potential therapeutic target for developing pharmacological interventions to improve cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
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