"A newly identified gene mutation appears to disrupt a brain circuit that helps us update our understanding of the world. When this system fails, the brain may cling to old ideas even when reality changes.
In experiments with mice, researchers showed that this mutation interferes with the brain’s ability to adjust decisions based on new input, a problem that closely mirrors cognitive symptoms seen in schizophrenia.
The mutation occurs in a gene called grin2a, previously linked to schizophrenia in large genetic studies. The findings suggest that targeting this circuit could eventually help improve cognitive function in some patients.
“If this circuit doesn’t work well, you cannot quickly integrate information,” says Guoping Feng, the James W. and Patricia T.
The researchers traced the problem to a specific brain region called the mediodorsal thalamus.
This area connects to the prefrontal cortex, forming a circuit that supports decision-making and flexible thinking.
Neurons in this region appeared to track how valuable each option
was, helping guide choices. The team also observed different patterns of activity depending on whether the mice were exploring options or committing to a decision.
Only a small percentage of schizophrenia patients carry mutations in grin2a. However, the researchers believe this circuit may represent a shared pathway that contributes to cognitive impairment across different forms of the disorder."
Neurons in this region appeared to track how valuable each option
Only a small percentage of schizophrenia patients carry mutations in grin2a. However, the researchers believe this circuit may represent a shared pathway that contributes to cognitive impairment across different forms of the disorder."
SciTechDaily
