天美传媒

Abstract

Neuroimaging indicators are crucial for advancing pharmaceutical research and development in schizophrenia, a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by significant disruptions in brain structure and function. This review explores the role of various neuroimaging techniques, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional MRI (fMRI), and positron emission tomography (PET), in understanding the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and evaluating new treatments. Structural MRI identifies brain abnormalities such as reduced gray matter volume, while fMRI assesses altered functional connectivity and neural network disruptions. PET imaging provides insights into neurotransmitter system dysfunction, particularly dopaminergic activity. These neuroimaging indicators help in identifying disease mechanisms, assessing therapeutic effects, predicting drug responses, and monitoring disease progression. Despite challenges such as heterogeneity of the disorder and technical limitations, advancements in neuroimaging technology and analysis offer promising avenues for improving drug development and personalized treatment strategies for schizophrenia.