[From psychopathophysiology towards a biomarker-based classification and stratified treatment of schizophrenic...

This article gives an overview of the role of functional neuroimaging for 1. a better understanding of the phenotypic symptoms and their underlying pathophysiology, 2. research into the genetic and environmental factors involved in the pathogenesis, and 3. current and future developments towards a biomarker-based classification and tailored therapy of schizophrenic disorders. In particular, neuroimaging of endophenotypic brain dysfunctions and imaging genetics are promising research approaches as endophenotypes may guide the development of functional neuroimaging biomarkers for clinically relevant pathophysiological processes. These biomarkers may permit a more precise differential diagnosis of pathophysiological and pathogenetic subtypes of the heterogeneous diagnostic category of schizophrenic disorders. Furthermore, they may allow us to predict individual treatment responses to specific therapies and to personalise treatment selection.