Exploring effects of EAAT polymorphisms on cognitive functions in schizophrenia

To evaluate the effect of functional polymorphisms (rs4354668 and rs2731880) of the excitatory amino acid transporters (EAAT1 and 2) on the cognitive dysfunction that characterizes schizophrenia. Materials & methods: One hundred and ninety two subjects diagnosed with schizophrenia were assessed with Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Continuous Performance Test and N-back test and genotyped for rs4354668 and rs2731880. Results: ANOVA showed a significant difference among both EAAT1 and EAAT2 genotype groups on different cognitive measures. Worse performances were observed among carriers of the genotypes associated with lower EAAT expression. Conclusion: Results suggest that impaired activity and EAAT expression could influence cognitive performances in schizophrenia, thus representing a target of interest for development of pharmacological strategies aimed to improve cognition.