Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 2, 2025

Standardized Data Acquisition for Neuromelanin-Sensitive Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Substantia Nigra
Published on: September 8, 2021
Brain network dynamics during working memory are modulated by dopamine and diminished in schizophrenia
Urs Braun1,2, Anais Harneit3, Giulio Pergola4
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany. urs.braun@zi-mannheim.de.
Working memory relies on brain-wide state switching, influenced by dopamine receptor genetics and modulation. Schizophrenia patients exhibit altered network control, impacting memory stability.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Flexible working memory depends on dynamic brain state transitions.
- The underlying network mechanisms for these transitions remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate brain-wide network dynamics during working memory.
- To explore the role of dopamine signaling and its receptors in these dynamics.
- To examine network control properties in individuals with schizophrenia.
Main Methods:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in healthy controls and schizophrenia patients.
- Pharmacological fMRI to assess dopamine receptor influence.
- Genetic analyses of dopamine receptor expression.
- Application of network control theory to analyze brain dynamics.
Main Results:
- Working memory performance involves brain-wide switching between activity states.
- Dopamine D1 receptor gene expression correlates with state stability.
- Dopamine D2 receptor expression and modulation affect state transitions.
- Schizophrenia patients display altered network control, a more diverse energy landscape, and reduced working memory representation stability.
Conclusions:
- Dopamine signaling is crucial for steering whole-brain network dynamics during working memory.
- These dopamine-mediated network dynamics are linked to schizophrenia pathophysiology.
More Related Videos
08:36Dynamic Inter-subject Functional Connectivity Reveals Moment-to-Moment Brain Network Configurations Driven by Continuous or Communication Paradigms
Published on: March 21, 2019
12:09Network Analysis of the Default Mode Network Using Functional Connectivity MRI in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Published on: August 5, 2014
Related Concept Videos
Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Psychosis: Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
Researchers have identified genetic factors that increase susceptibility to schizophrenia, underscoring the intricate interplay between genetics and environment in disease development. At the core of schizophrenia's pathophysiology is excessive dopaminergic neurotransmission within...
Role of Neurotransmitters in Memory
Glutamate and Synaptic Plasticity
Glutamate, the brain's main excitatory neurotransmitter, is...
Working Memory
Neural Regulation