Age-dependent associations between plasma neurofilament light chain protein and symptom severity in treatment-resistant Schizophrenia: a moderation analysis

Abstract

Background and objectives: Treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) is a severe subtype of schizophrenia. While negative and disorganised symptoms have been associated with cognitive dysfunction, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms remain unclear. Plasma neurofilament light chain protein (NfL), a biomarker of neuroaxonal damage, has shown promising associations in TRS. This study investigates the interrelationships between symptomatology, cognition, and NfL in TRS. Methods: Eighty-two clozapine-treated TRS participants were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms, and Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms. Cognitive ..