"Uncovering the Neural Basis of Psychosis: Insights into Brain Dysfunction and Hallucinations"
A study led by Stanford Medicine has found that two key brain systems are malfunctioning in individuals with psychosis, leading to difficulties in distinguishing reality and manifesting as hallucinations and delusions. The dysfunction of these systems affects the brain's ability to filter important external events and internal thoughts, as well as predict rewards. The study used brain scan data from individuals with a rare genetic disease called 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and those with psychosis of unknown origin, shedding light on the underlying brain mechanisms and theoretical frameworks related to psychosis. The findings may have implications for understanding and potentially preventing schizophrenia, as well as for monitoring the effectiveness of existing antipsychotic medications.