Final Report Summary - DRASTIC (Apathy in schizophrenia: time for a DRASTIC (Dual Routes to Apathy in Schizophrenia: Treatment, Imaging, Cognition) study)
Our analysis of functional connectivity between brain regions and apathy in patients with schizophrenia yielded interesting results. More specifically, patients with schizophrenia and more severe levels of apathy showed less variability in their physical activity and more rigid functional brain network behavior in the default-mode network (DMN) and salience-reward network (SRN). These networks have been shown relevant for self-reflection, mental simulation, and reward processing, processes that are pivotal for self-initiated goal-directed behavior. Functional rigidity of these networks may therefore contribute to reduced goal-directed behavior, which is characteristic for these patients.
The results of the randomized controlled trial of brain stimulation for improving apathy in patients with schizophrenia are expected by September 2018 and will be published over the next year. Analyses of functional neuroimaging data into the putative different forms of apathy, "cognitive apathy" versus "social-emotional apathy" will also be conducted over the next six months and results will be reported next year.