From Micro Molecular to Functional Levels Through Macro Structures: Mediation of Structural Brain Changes on the Relationship Between Oxidative Stress and Cognition in Early Onset Psychosis

Abstract

Background: Previous findings showed decreased frontal left gray matter (FLGM) volume predicted working memory impairments over 2 years after first-episode psychosis (FEP) in adolescents, as a function of age. However, the interplay between brain changes and cognitive development is not well understood. Oxidative stress (STOX), specifically lower baseline glutathione (GSH) levels, has been linked to greater FLGM volume loss and cognitive impairments in this same sample group. This study further investigated the relationship between baseline GSH levels, longitudinal brain changes, and cognitive impairments in FEP compared to healthy controls. We hypothesized that lower baseline GSH levels and..