Genetic correlational analysis of glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta and prepulse inhibition in inbred mice

In humans, GSK-3 beta activity is diminished in schizophrenic patients as is prepulse inhibition of the startle response (PPI). We performed a genetic correlational analysis between published PPI values and frontal cortex GSK-3 activity analyzed in our laboratory in 10 inbred mouse strains. This methodology could indicate relevant parameters for study in an animal model. Indeed, we obtained significant correlations between the enzyme's activity and PPI measured by two different methods. This may indicate that investigation of the genetics of GSK-3 beta regulation holds promise for understanding some of the biochemical underpinnings of schizophrenia.