Differential SP4 expression and HSP60 abundance in buccal swabs from patients with schizophrenia

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is heterogenous and polygenic, making it difficult to
diagnose and treat. This is unsurprising as diagnostic criteria are solely
based on behavioral markers. There is a critical need for easy-to-collect
biomarkers that aid in treatment. To identify potential biomarkers, we
recruited SCZ patients and controls. Using buccal cell lysates, we
performed real-time quantitative PCR and identified significant
differences in Sp4 mRNA between patients and controls. Targeted mass
spectrometry identified increased heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) in SCZ
samples. To determine the utility of Sp4 mRNA and HSP60 protein as
biomarkers, we evaluated their relationship with symptom severity and
aberrant cognitive processes. Correlational analyses revealed that
elevated Sp4 mRNA and HSP60 protein define a subgroup of SCZ patients who
demonstrate symptomology and poor memory. These data support buccal cell
Sp4 mRNA and HSP60 protein as easy-to-collect, candidate SCZ biomarkers
for a subset of patients.