Korean J Schizophr Res.  2025 Apr;28(1):19-28. 10.16946/kjsr.2025.28.1.19.

A Literature Review and Preliminary Study on Proteomic Research Associated With the Therapeutic Mechanism and Efficacy of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Schizophrenia Patients

• Jang J
• Kim M
• Han D
• Kim W
• Kwon J

• KMID: 2567638
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.16946/kjsr.2025.28.1.19

Abstract

The mechanism of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in schizophrenia remains unclear, with limited research available. Previous studies have reported ECT-induced changes in protein markers, including neurotrophic factors, inflammatory markers, and signaling proteins, but findings have been inconsistent. This study reviews existing literature on protein changes associated with ECT and explores potential molecular mechanisms underlying its effects. Additionally, we present pilot findings from 34 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who underwent ECT at Seoul National University Hospital. Blood samples collected before and after ECT were analyzed via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), with Pearson’s correlation analysis examining their association with symptom changes. Talin 2 emerged as a potential biomarker linked to clinical improvement. However, given the small sample size, these findings require cautious interpretation. Further research is needed to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying ECT’s therapeutic effects in schizophrenia.

Keyword

Electroconvulsive therapy; Plasma; Proteome; Psychosis; Schizophrenia; Schizoaffective disorder; 전기경련요법; 혈장; 단백체; 정신증; 조현병; 조현정동장애