How Sustained D2/D3 Modulation Impacts Working Memory Performance
This study provides the first causal evidence in healthy adults that sustained use of both a D2/D3 antagonist (amisulpride) and a D2/D3 partial agonist (aripiprazole) impairs visuospatial working memory (VS-WM). Across a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design, participants experienced slower response times in memory tasks without loss of accuracy, indicating altered speed-accuracy trade-offs. These cognitive effects occurred without broader impacts on sustained attention, response inhibition, or subjective alertness, suggesting a specific effect of dopamine modulation on working memory processes.
Why Read this Publication:
- First causal evidence of how sustained D2/D3 receptor modulation affects human working memory
- Clinical relevance with dosing levels commonly prescribed for schizophrenia and other conditions
- Demonstrates targeted effects on working memory latency without general cognitive decline
- Highlights dopamine’s role in regulating decision thresholds and working memory retrieval
- Supports deeper exploration into optimizing antipsychotic therapy while minimizing cognitive burden
Journal: Molecular Psychiatry
Authors: Martin Osugo, Uzma Zahid, Pierluigi Selvaggi, Alexandria Chilimidos, Valeria Finelli, George E. Chapman, Thomas Whitehurst, Ellis Chika Onwordi, Robin M. Murray, Matthew B. Wall, Tiago Reis Marques, Mitul A. Mehta & Oliver D. Howes