Characterizing the theory of mind network in schizophrenia reveals a sparser network structure

Impaired social functioning is a hallmark of schizophrenia and altered functional integration between distant brain regions are expected to account for signs symptoms the disorder. The neuroarchitecture network relevant functioning, mentalizing network, however poorly understood. In this study we examined dysfunctions in patients with compared healthy controls via dynamic causal modelling an interactive decision-making game. Network characteristics were analyzed on single subject basis whereas graph theoretic metrics such as in-degree, out-degree edge-connectivity per node groups. results point sparser structure highlight dorsomedial prefrontal cortex disconnected hub receiving significantly less input from other network. Further analyses suggest that integrating pathways right left temporo-parietal junction into frequently found schizophrenia. Brain behavior further connectivity-intactness within entire associated interpersonal during task. Thus, neurobiological alterations specific deficit core underlying generation higher-order representations thereby provide potential treatment target.