Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Brain Imaging Investigation of the Impairing Effect of Emotion on Cognition
Published on: February 1, 2012
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is associated with cognitive impairments in first-episode and chronic schizophrenia
Ye Yang1, Yi Liu1, Guodong Wang1
1Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center on Mental Disorders, Changsha, China; National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Changsha, China.
Abstract:
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be related to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. This study aims to examine the relation between plasma BDNF levels and the cognition of patients with schizophrenia. We recruited 31 patients with chronic schizophrenia, 34 first-episode patients, and 35 healthy control subjects. We examined the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) and the plasma BDNF levels in all groups. The schizophrenic symptoms were assessed using the positive and negative syndrome scale. The BDNF levels of schizophrenic patients were remarkably lower than those of the controls. The cognitive MCCB global composite scores and part index scores of schizophrenic patients were remarkably lower than those of the controls. Moreover, remarkable correlations were observed between BDNF levels and partial cognitive dimensions, such as visual learning, memory, and processing speed. Therefore, BDNF may be involved in the pathophysiology and cognitive impairment of schizophrenia.
Related Concept Videos
Negative and Cognitive Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Negative Symptoms
Negative symptoms of schizophrenia manifest as deficits in normal emotional and behavioral functioning, profoundly impacting daily life. Individuals with schizophrenia often display a flat affect, characterized by a near-total absence of emotional expression,...
Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
Cognitive Dissonance
Schizophrenia
Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin...
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia

