The lipid membrane hypothesis of schizophrenia: implications for possible clinical breath tests

The diagnosis of disease on the basis of an altered profile of breath volatiles is a new area of clinical biochemistry. The membrane hypothesis of schizophrenia leads to a number of predictions about possible volatile biochemical markers for this condition. These molecules would arise from autoxidation of arachidonic acid and possibly other unsaturated fatty acids. Preliminary experimental studies in this area are reviewed. The results are encouraging and developments in analytical methodology, especially mass spectrometry and electronic nose technology, hold promise for an objective test for monitoring the progress of the disease and possibly for diagnosis.