Neuroprotective Effects of Risperdal on Brain and Cognition in 22q11 Deletion Syndrome
Status:
Recruiting
Trial end date:
2022-09-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is a neurogenetic condition associated with a
high risk of psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This
population is characterized by a particular neurocognitive profile and atypical brain
development. Risperidone is a second-generation antipsychotic, inhibitor of dopaminergic
receptors. Used in the treatment of psychosis, risperidone is frequently prescribed in
22q11DS, for example to treat a psychotic episode. Research on an animal model of 22q11DS
(LgDel+/- mice) shows that administering an antipsychotic for 12 days during a critical
period of brain development (adolescence) prevents deleterious neuronal changes and improves
behavioral performance in mice. The aim of this study is therefore to replicate the results
found in mice and to identify a long-term neuroprotective effect.
This study is inspired on the one hand by the families who share with us the difficulties of
individuals affected by 22q11DS on a daily basis, but also by the encouraging results of
studies conducted on mice.