Current pathophysiological models of schizophrenia focus on disconnectivity of distributed neuronal systems to explain the multitude of psychic symptoms. However, therapeutic strategies targeting this specific pathobiology are lacking. Our recent work provides strong evidence that complex video-game training interventions facilitate fronto-hippocampal structural and functional connectivity within 2 months in healthy subjects. The planned project transfers this knowledge into a training study in schizophrenic patients to counteract disease-related disconnectivity. Underlying mechanisms and behavioral effects are extensively parametrized by resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), spectroscopy and clinical short- and long-term outcome.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
150
Participants intensively train with a video game (Super Mario DS)
Participants train with a video game (Super Mario Bros)
Participants read on a kindle device (control group)
University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf
Hamburg, Germany
RECRUITINGT1 - MRI
The investigators look for structural volume changes in T1 images (MRI) specifically in the hippocampus and prefrontal areas due to training
Time frame: 2 months (= training time and 2 months after training end)
Cognition - Spatial Orientation
The investigators look for changes in cognition specifically regarding spatial orientation (MATRICS, computer tests measuring spatial orientation with and without external cue) due to training.
Time frame: 2 months (= training time and 2 months after training end)
Positive & Negative Symptoms in patients
The investigators look for changes in positive and negative symptoms (PANSS) due to training.
Time frame: 2 months (= training time and 2 months after training end)
Resting State fMRI
The investigators look for blood oxygen level dependency (BOLD) changes in resting state fMRI specifically in the Hippocampus and Prefrontal Areas due to the training
Time frame: 2 months (= training time and 2 months after training end)
Spectroscopy - glutamate
The investigators look for glutamate concentration changes in the hippocampus due to the training
Time frame: 2 month (= training time and 2 month after training end)
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)
The investigators look for structural connectivity changes in DTI images due to the training
Time frame: 2 month (= training time and 2 month after training end)
Biomarkers (BDNF & interleukin 1 & 6)
The investigators look for plasticity induced changes in biomarkers (interleukin1 and 6 and BDNF \[brain-derived neurotrophic factor\]) due to training
Time frame: 2 month (= training time and 2 month after training end)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.