Auditory Cortex Thickness Is Associated With N100 Amplitude in Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Neuroimaging

Background:

• The auditory cortex (AC) is implicated in schizophrenia pathophysiology and auditory hallucinations (AH).
• Previous studies show reduced AC thickness and impaired function (decreased N100 amplitude) in schizophrenia.
• The link between AC structural/functional alterations and AH requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between auditory cortex (AC) structure and function in schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SCZspect).
• To determine if AC thickness and auditory evoked potential (N100 amplitude) are associated with auditory hallucinations (AH) in schizophrenia patients.

Main Methods:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) were used in patients with SCZspect (including AH+ and AH- subgroups) and healthy controls (HC).
• Cortical thickness of primary (AC1) and secondary (AC2) auditory cortex was compared between groups.
• Regression models with interaction terms examined the association between AC thickness and N100 amplitude across groups.

Main Results:

• N100 amplitude was smaller in SCZspect and AH- individuals compared to controls.
• AC2 was thinner in AH+ individuals compared to controls.
• AC1 thickness positively correlated with N100 amplitude in SCZspect and AH- groups.
• AC2 thickness positively correlated with N100 amplitude in SCZspect and AH+ groups.

Conclusions:

• Positive associations between AC thickness and N100 amplitude were observed in SCZspect, AH-, and AH+ groups.
• These findings suggest a common neural substrate underlying structural and functional AC alterations in schizophrenia.
• The results highlight the potential role of the auditory cortex in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and auditory hallucinations.