Synaptic microenvironment and altered state of consciousness in schizophrenia: a possible link between synapse geometry and orchestrated objective reduction theory
The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery August 22, 2023 Shahriar Ahmadpour
A review of the orchestrated objective reduction (OR) theory of consciousness as applied to schizophrenia. The OR theory proposes that consciousness arises from quantum computations in microtubules, with events initiated at the synapse, where signal transduction and neurotransmitter availability are regulated. The review examines how the synaptic microenvironment—including astrocytes and the extracellular matrix—is actively regulated and how its disruption may contribute to consciousness abnormalities in schizophrenia. Evidence from experimental and post-mortem studies indicates involvement of these synaptic components in the disorder. The article synthesizes findings to link disturbed synaptic homeostasis with altered consciousness in schizophrenia.