Serum LBP and zonulin levels with brain MRS findings and gastrointestinal symptoms in schizophrenia and health

This is the first study to assess intestinal permeability markers with brain MRS findings in health and in schizophrenia. Results indicate associations between LBP and myo-inositol in PCC in health and in schizophrenia, suggesting a physiological role of LBP in glial homeostasis. Zonulin association with glutamine levels in ACC may contribute to the complex pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Patients with schizophrenia exhibited increased levels of LBP, which is associated with age of onset and discomfort from lower gastrointestinal symptoms. Healthy controls show associations between LBP and upper gastrointestinal symptoms. A closer examination of the gut-brain axis may provide novel insights into the neuroimmune dysregulation in schizophrenia.