2. Recognize the current established pharmacological targets
3. Comprehend the evolving understanding of the science of schizophrenia
Schizophrenia profoundly affects individuals, their families, and care teams. This program will address its multifaceted impacts, including associated comorbidities. We will explore current insights into schizophrenia's pathophysiology, focusing on the four key dopaminergic pathways and their associated brain regions. Dysregulation of presynaptic dopamine release in these regions will be discussed, along with a review of the dopamine hypothesis and the challenges and benefits of using D2 receptor antagonists in treatment. Additionally, we will examine the potential role of acetylcholine and muscarinic receptors, including their functions in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The distinctions between nicotinic and muscarinic receptors, their subtypes, and their distribution will be covered. Finally, we will explore how targeting M1 and M4 receptors may reduce positive psychotic symptoms while minimizing the side effects associated with D2 antagonism.