Working Memory and Sensory Memory in Subclinical High Schizotypy: An
Avenue for Understanding Schizophrenia?
Abstract
The search for robust, reliable biomarkers of schizophrenia remains a
high priority in psychiatry. Biomarkers are valuable because they can
reveal the underlying mechanisms of symptoms and monitor treatment
progress, and may predict future risk of developing schizophrenia.
Despite the existence of various promising biomarkers that relate to
symptoms across the schizophrenia-spectrum, and despite published
recommendations encouraging multivariate metrics, they are rarely
investigated simultaneously within the same individuals. In those with
schizophrenia, the magnitude of purported biomarkers is complicated by
comorbid diagnoses, medications, and other treatments. Here, we argue
three points. First, we reiterate the importance of assessing multiple
biomarkers simultaneously. Second, we argue that investigating
biomarkers in those with schizophrenia-related traits (schizotypy) in
the general population can accelerate progress in understanding the
mechanisms of schizophrenia. We focus on biomarkers of sensory and
working memory in schizophrenia and their smaller effects in individuals
with nonclinical schizotypy. Third, we note irregularities across
research domains leading to the current situation in which there is a
preponderance of data on auditory sensory memory and visual working
memory, but markedly less in visual (iconic) memory and auditory working
memory, particularly when focusing on schizotypy where data are either
scarce or inconsistent. Together, this review highlights opportunities
for researchers without access to clinical populations to address gaps
in knowledge. We conclude by highlighting the theory that early sensory
memory deficits contribute negatively to working memory and vice versa.
This presents a mechanistic perspective where biomarkers may interact
with one another and impact schizophrenia-related symptoms.