A preliminary metabolomics study of the database for biological samples of schizophrenia among Chinese ethnic minorities

Abstract

Background Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a profound mental disorder with a multifactorial etiology, including genetics, environmental factors, and demographic influences such as ethnicity and geography. Among these, the studies of SCZ also shows racial and regional differences. Methods We first established a database of biological samples for SCZ in China’s ethnic minorities, followed by a serum metabolomic analysis of SCZ patients from various ethnic groups within the same region using the LC-HRMS platform. Results Analysis identified 47 metabolites associated with SCZ, with 46 showing significant differences between Miao and Han SCZ patients. These metabolites, primarily fatty acids, amino acids, benzene, and derivatives, are involved in fatty acid metabolism pathways. Notably, L-Carnitine, L-Cystine, Aspartylphenylalanine, and Methionine sulfoxide demonstrated greater diagnostic efficacy in Miao SCZ patients compared to Han SCZ patients. Conclusion Preliminary findings suggest that there are differences in metabolic levels among SCZ patients of different ethnicities in the same region, offering insights for developing objective diagnostic or therapeutic monitoring strategies that incorporate ethnic considerations of SCZ.