Schizophrenia Linked to Widespread Synapse Loss, Especially on Left Brain Side

New brain‑scanning research shows that schizophrenia is associated with a broad loss of synapses—the connections between neurons—across the brain, with the left hemisphere suffering the greatest damage. The pattern of loss is not random; it follows a structured sequence that aligns with the brain’s chemical environment and neural circuitry. Importantly, scientists have pinpointed a specific area in the left frontal lobe that may act as the initial site where synaptic degradation begins. These findings refine our understanding of the neural underpinnings of schizophrenia and could guide future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.