Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and schizophrenia: what have we learnt?

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has been increasingly used to investigate the in vivo biochemistry of particular regions of the brain in patients with schizophrenia. We review the literature and discuss the theoretical constructs that form the presumed impetus for these studies in light of the current methodological limitations. Future directions are noted. METHOD: The available published literature in English formed the basis for this review. RESULTS: The results of 31P-MRS have been interpreted as reflecting a relative increase in cell membrane degradation in prefrontal cortical regions at certain phases of schizophrenia. 1H-MRS studies, though less consistent, provide evi..