Mechanisms of Sulforaphane Supplementation in Alleviating Negative Symptoms and Cognitive Impairment in Schizophrenia

The goal of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with an open-label extension is to evaluate whether sulforaphane can improve negative symptoms and cognitive impairment, and to explore its underlying mechanisms in patients with schizophrenia (aged 12-45 years, both sexes, stable on antipsychotic medication). The study duration includes 12 weeks of double-blind treatment followed by a 12-week open-label extension. In the randomized controlled double-blind phase, a total of 60 participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive either six oral tablets (411 μmol GR) of sulforaphane (SFN group, n = 30) or placebo (placebo group, n = 30) for 12 weeks. In the open-label phase, participants will choose whether to continue taking the drugs originally assigned. The primary outcome is the change in PANSS and BNSS scores during the randomized double-blind phase. Secondary outcomes include changes in brain MRI measures, as well as changes in MCCB, CGI-SI, CGI-GI, PSP, SNS, and SAFTEE scores during the randomized double-blind phase; and changes in PANSS, BNSS, and MCCB scores during the open-label phase.SAFTEE scale, serious adverse event record and blood test will be used for safety monitoring.