Value of Voxel-Based Morphometry in Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia and nicotine use disorder are two conditions linked in part to distinct brain structural abnormalities that can significantly impact cognitive and behavioral functions, particularly in areas like decision-making and impulsivity. Schizophrenia (although it's exact cause is unknown) is often associated with reduced gray matter (GM) in regions such as the prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, which are crucial for cognitive control and decision-making processes . Nicotine use disorder, on the other hand, has been linked to structural changes in brain areas involved in reward processing and impulsivity regulation. The overlap of these conditions is notable, as nicotine addiction is highly prevalent among schizophrenic patients, potentially exacerbating cognitive and behavioral dysfunctions .

Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM) is a widely used neuroimaging technique that enables researchers to detect and quantify brain structural differences, particularly in GM, by analyzing MRI scans. VBM allows for the identification of subtle brain abnormalities that may contribute to the development of schizophrenia and nicotine dependence. These structural changes may provide insight into associated behavioral traits such as impaired decision-making and increased impulsivity, both of which are commonly observed in individuals with either or both conditions

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosed schizophrenia (for groups 1 and 2).
• Nicotine dependence as defined by the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (for groups 2 and 3).
• Age range: 18-60 years.
• Schizophrenic patients must be stable on medications for at least 2 months.
• Written informed consent (from the patient or his carer).

Exclusion criteria

• History of other neurological or other psychiatric disorders (besides schizophrenia or nicotine dependence).
• Current substance use disorders other than nicotine.
• Severe head trauma or other conditions likely to affect brain structure.
• IQ below 70.
• MRI contraindications such as metallic implants (e.g. pace maker), claustrophobia or anxiety disorders severe enough to prevent comfortable MRI scanning will also be exclusion criteria.