The Hidden Power of MMN: What It Reveals About Psychosis

Mismatch negativity, or MMN, has been making waves in the world of psychiatric research. This brain response, measured using electroencephalography (EEG), is like a fingerprint that can help detect psychosis. Scientists have been studying MMN for over four decades, using it as a biomarker in both humans and animals like rats and monkeys. What's fascinating is that MMN doesn't just tell us about how well someone processes sounds; it also gives clues about their overall functioning and future. Imagine MMN as a secret messenger that whispers about a person's ability to handle daily life. Research has shown that MMN is linked to something called the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) score, which measures how well someone can take care of themselves and interact with others. Plus, MMN can hint at whether a person might develop psychosis or if they'll get better. But how does MMN actually work? Scientists are still figuring that out. They're using fancy computer models and testing animals to understand the brain processes behind MMN. It's like trying to solve a complex puzzle, piece by piece. In one study, researchers looked at 201 people, including both healthy individuals and those with psychiatric disorders. They wanted to see how MMN related to real-world functioning. They found that MMN had something to do with it, but interestingly, it didn't matter whether someone was healthy or not. This shows that MMN is more than just a sign of illness; it's a window into how our brains help us navigate life. Future studies should consider more than just if someone is healthy or sick. They should look at emotions, intentions, and how our bodies react automatically. After all, our brains don't exist in a vacuum; they interact with the world around us.