Due to the lack of studies focusing on multisensory and
multidomain functioning in schizotypy, we are forced to assume that the
benefits of multivariate biomarkers will be as helpful in characterizing
those with high schizotypy as it should be in the diagnosed
population.
The deficits in SM and WM along the schizophrenia spectrum offer insight
into how these previously disparate abnormalities interact and accrue
downstream effects. Furthermore, they highlight the value of
investigating the use of early-stage sensory interventions for
treatment. There is already some evidence of training in SM or WM
to alleviate deficits. The effectiveness of sensory training on symptoms
has implications for other conditions associated with sensory
abnormalities. Assessing biomarkers along the sensory pathway and
treating early sensory symptoms is being used in autism (Dinstein et
al., 2015; Haigh, 2018; Whitaker et al., 2016)) and in bipolar
depression (for a review, see (Sit & Haigh, 2019)). However, it will be
important to demonstrate whether these mechanisms are (1) causal, and
(2) sensory modality specific.
Comparing SM and WM has the added benefit of identifying biomarkers and
neural mechanisms that are unique to schizophrenia symptomatology. For
example, schizophrenia is indistinguishable from autism on
neuropsychological tests, including WM (Eack et al., 2013). Whereas the
schizophrenia population differs from autism in their sensory responses,
namely that individuals with schizophrenia typically under-respond
whereas individuals with autism tend to over-respond (Haigh et al.,
2016; Haigh et al., 2022). Identifying multiple biomarkers associated
with schizophrenia and SSD more broadly can help with diagnostic
specificity with greater accuracy than single markers.
To improve outcomes associated with schizophrenia, new approaches are
needed. We advocate for collecting multiple biomarkers from available,
subclinical populations that can collectively monitor symptomsand reveal the mechanisms underlying the symptoms .
Alternatively, they may identify treatment successes. With a more
complete mechanistic understanding of schizophrenia, such a suite of
biomarkers could identify appropriate courses of treatment that will
improve long-term outcomes.