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Dopamine and Mood in Psychotic Disorders: An 18F-DOPA PET Study

Dopamine synthesis capacity is reduced in psychosis with depression compared to mixed/mania syndromes, while positive psychotic symptoms correlate with higher dopamine synthesis in the associative striatum.

Importance There is limited neurobiological or trial evidence guiding treatment of comorbid affective syndromes in psychotic disorders. Given the use of dopamine-blocking antipsychotics, understanding dopamine function across these mood states is warranted.

Objective To test for differences in dopamine synthesis capacity (Kicer) between affective syndromes across psychotic disorders and for association with psychotic symptom severity.

Design, Setting, and Participants In this cross-sectional study using fluorine F 18–labeled fluorodopa (18 F-DOPA) positron emission tomography (PET), individuals with first-episode psychosis and comorbid affective syndromes, including a current major depressive episode (MDE) or mixed/mania syndromes, and matched controls were recruited from early intervention services in inner-city London, United Kingdom. Data were collected from March 2013 to February 2022 and analyzed from October 1, 2023, to January 1, 2025.

Abstract: Can we help fat cells get in shape in diabetes?

Here, James C. Lo & team identify FAM20C as a key mediator of obesity-induced adipocyte dysfunction and inflammation, suggesting its inhibition as a potential therapy for Type2 Diabetes:

The figure shows visceral white adipose tissue in mice with adipocyte-specific deletion of Fam20c shifts shows lower macrophage area compared with controls.

1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Weill Center for Metabolic Health, Cardiovascular Research Institute, and.

2Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA.

3Helmholtz Institute for Metabolic, Obesity, and Vascular Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, University of Leipzig and University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.

Memory chip giants spark global semiconductor rally as shortages stoke price hikes

Semiconductor stocks rallied to start the year, led by the world’s biggest memory chip firms that are getting a boost from continued artificial intelligence-related demand.

South Korea’s SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics, the world’s two biggest memory makers, are up 11.5% and 15.9% respectively year-to-date. Micron is 9% higher this year.

This CRISPR breakthrough turns genes on without cutting DNA

A new CRISPR breakthrough shows scientists can turn genes back on without cutting DNA, by removing chemical tags that act like molecular anchors. The work confirms these tags actively silence genes, settling a long-running scientific debate. This gentler form of gene editing could offer a safer way to treat Sickle Cell disease by reactivating a fetal blood gene. Researchers say it opens the door to powerful therapies with fewer unintended side effects.

Fifteen buildings to look out for in 2026

We’re ringing in the new year with a look at 15 landmark architecture projects scheduled for completion in 2026, including museums, performing arts venues and a face-shaped tower.

Sagrada Familia, Spain, by Antoni Gaudí

The most significant building set to be completed in 2026 is the Sagrada Familia, 100 years after the death of its architect Antoni Gaudí.

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