Scientific Sessions

Neuroimaging and biomarkers are transforming psychiatry by providing deeper insights into the biological foundations of mental disorders. Techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and electroencephalography (EEG) allow researchers and clinicians to observe brain structure, connectivity, and activity patterns linked to conditions like depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. These tools help identify abnormalities in neural circuits associated with emotion regulation, cognition, and reward processing. Biomarkers—measurable biological indicators found in blood, genetics, or neurochemistry—further enhance diagnosis by offering objective evidence of underlying dysfunctions, moving psychiatry closer to precision medicine.

The integration of neuroimaging and biomarkers holds great promise for improving early detection, treatment selection, and monitoring of psychiatric disorders. For instance, imaging studies can predict treatment responses to antidepressants or brain stimulation therapies, while genetic and molecular biomarkers may guide personalized pharmacological strategies. Despite challenges such as high costs, ethical considerations, and variability in results, ongoing research continues to refine their clinical applicability. Together, neuroimaging and biomarkers pave the way for a more objective, science-driven approach in psychiatry, offering hope for earlier interventions, more effective treatments, and better long-term outcomes in mental health care.