Could Vagus Nerve Stimulation Target Hippocampal Hyperactivity to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia?

Despite the fact that cognitive function is the best predictor of functional outcome and quality of life in schizophrenia (1), cognitive symptoms remain poorly treated in the illness. A myriad of cognitive domains are affected, including selective and sustained attention, working memory, episodic memory, processing speed, executive function, and social cognition (2). Patients consequently suffer from high unemployment rates (80%) and most are unable to live independently (30%) (3). Clearly, new treatments are needed.