Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and schizophrenia: what have we learnt?

Objective: Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has been increasingly used to investigate the in vivo biochemistry of particular regions of the brain in patients with schizophrenia. We review the literature and discuss the t heoretical constructs that form the presumed impetus for these studies in l ight of the current methodological limitations. Future directions are noted . Method: The available published literature in English formed the basis for this review. Results: The results of P-31-MRS have been interpreted as reflecting a rela tive increase in cell membrane degradation in prefrontal cortical regions a t certain phases of schizophrenia. H-1-MRS studies, though less consistent, provide evidence suggestive of a decrease in neuronal cell mass in the hip pocampal region, which supports the findings of volumetric studies. Both gr oups of MRS studies support a neuro-developmental hypothesis of brain dysfu nction in schizophrenia. However, current methodological problems limit the reliable interpretation of MRS data. A clear understanding of the methodol ogy and its reliable interpretation is yet to emerge. Conclusions: MRS remains a research instrument that is yet to be fully util ised in schizophrenia research. A few replicated findings are emerging, alt hough the interpretation of these spectroscopic findings needs to be valida ted.