RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT05956327

Insight Into Hippocampal Neuroplasticity in Schizophrenia by Investigating Molecular Pathways During Physical Training

Sponsor

LMU Klinikum

Enrollment

156 participants

Start Date

Sep 29, 2023

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Exercise Schizophrenia Neuronal Plasticity

Summary

Aerobic endurance training has shown positive effects on symptoms, cognition, daily functioning, and the structure of the hippocampus in patients with schizophrenia. The study investigates genetic and epigenetic influences on neuroplastic changes following three months of endurance training. A control group performs flexibility, strength, and balance training. The main objective is to examine the association between a genetic risk score for schizophrenia and volume increase in the CA4/DG region of the hippocampus. Additional goals include examining changes in synapses, brain structure, function, and metabolism, as well as clinical symptoms and cognitive performance.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is examining how a type of brain activity during sleep called "sleep spindles" and the connection between the thalamus and the brain's cortex are affected in people with schizophrenia, and whether improving these may help symptoms. The goal is to understand the biology of sleep disruption in schizophrenia. **You may be eligible if...** - You have been diagnosed with schizophrenia - Your symptoms are currently mild to moderate (PANSS total score of 75 or less) - You are on a stable antipsychotic medication for at least 2 weeks - You use reliable contraception if applicable **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have tested positive for illicit drugs (other than benzodiazepines) - You have active suicidal thoughts - You have another major psychiatric condition - You have a significant neurological disorder - You are pregnant or breastfeeding Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

PROCEDUREAerobic Endurance Training

Aerobic endurance training on a bicycle ergometer (week 1 to 6: three units per week á 40 minutes, week 7 to 12: three units á 45 minutes, in groups of up to three patients over 13 weeks)

PROCEDUREFlexibility, strengthening and balance training

Flexibility, strengthening and balance training (exercises from the areas of stretching, strength, balance and relaxation, 3x40 min from week 1-2, 3x45 min from week 3-4 and 3x50 min from week 5-13, in groups of up to three patients over 13 weeks)