Welcome to the 22nd WCP Congress Program Scheduling

The brain consists of interwoven network systems, which synchronize in order to maintain complex brain functions. Converging evidence showed the relationship between psychotic disorders and altered brain networks. Specialized centers consist of dedicated cell groups that participate in brain functions according to the dynamics of the function. Notably, dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic neurotransmitter systems are highly complicated in psychotic disorders. Neurobiology and the dynamics of the network alterations in psychotic disorders (schizophrenia and bipolar disorder) have been studied intensively. Disordered endocrine and neurotransmitter mechanisms disrupt brain networks differentially in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Moreover, network disruption in manic and depressive episodes appears to be differed in bipolar disorder. Clinical features have also been associated with brain network alterations in these disorders. For example, auditory hallucinations are associated with the auditory networks; mood symptoms are associated with the anterior limbic network. Therefore, recently, brain network alterations have become potential therapeutic targets in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This symposium aimed to discuss current trends in brain network alterations and future perspectives on schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.