Psychosis is a complex mental health condition, marked by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised thinking. Researchers have struggled to pinpoint its origins, but new advances are shedding light on the role of brain circuitry in these symptoms. By examining brain circuits in psychosis, scientists are uncovering clearer insights into the neural pathways involved, paving the way for more effective treatments.

Recent studies have explored the connection between brain lesions and psychosis. They reveal shared neural pathways that may guide future therapeutic approaches, especially in neuromodulation. This article summarises key findings and highlights how they might redefine treatment methods.

The Importance of Brain Circuits in Psychosis

Recent research shows that specific brain circuits play a major role in psychotic disorders. Psychosis seems to arise from disruptions in interconnected neural networks, rather than isolated brain regions. A study on psychosis caused by brain lesions found that these lesions consistently mapped to a common brain circuit centred on the hippocampus. The researchers explained, “Lesions that cause secondary psychosis affect a common brain circuit in the hippocampus. These results can help inform therapeutic neuromodulation targeting.” (PubMed)

This finding emphasises the hippocampus’s critical role in connecting brain regions. Its posterior subiculum, in particular, appears to be a hub for dysfunctions linked to psychosis. Understanding these connections provides a solid basis for advanced treatment strategies.

Neural Pathways in Psychotic Disorders

Psychotic symptoms, including those seen in schizophrenia, may result from disrupted neural pathways. One prominent study identified dysfunctions in the dorsal CST (corticostriatothalamic) and hippocampal-striatal networks across the psychosis spectrum. Researchers noted, “Human studies indicate that dorsal CST and hippocampal-striatal functional dysconnectivity are apparent across the psychosis spectrum and may represent a vulnerability marker for psychosis.” (ScienceDirect)

This suggests a potential to identify individuals at risk of psychosis earlier by examining these pathways. Spotting such signs could enable early intervention, potentially preventing more severe outcomes.

Circuit-Level Understanding Enhances Treatment Potential

Understanding common circuits involved in psychosis offers new treatment possibilities. For instance, neuromodulation techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can target specific brain areas. The rostromedial prefrontal cortex stands out as a promising region, strongly linked to these psychosis-related circuits.

TMS provides an opportunity to restore brain connectivity without heavily relying on drugs. By targeting dysfunctions at the circuit level, these therapies may offer safer and more effective solutions for psychosis management.

Promising Advances in Treating Psychotic Disorders

Recent discoveries about neural pathways in psychotic disorders show promising directions for treatment. By analysing how brain regions interact and recognising circuits like the hippocampal-striatal pathway, researchers are unveiling the root causes of psychosis. These breakthroughs support the development of more precise diagnostic tools and therapies.

Continuing research in this field increases hope for therapeutic advances, particularly through non-invasive neuromodulation. These studies aim not only to combat psychosis but also to enhance brain-based treatments for various mental health issues.

Source: Jama Network