Using animal models to develop therapeutics for Tourette Syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Genetics

Background:

• Tourette Syndrome (TS) research is progressing across multiple analytical levels.
• Developing effective animal models for TS presents challenges due to the disorder's waxing and waning course and subtle sensory/psychic symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utility of animal models in advancing the scientific understanding and treatment of Tourette Syndrome.
• To assess the validity (face, predictive, construct) of various animal models for TS research and drug development.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing animal models for Tourette Syndrome.
• Evaluation of model validity concerning predictive, face, and construct criteria.
• Focus on specific models like deficient sensorimotor gating of the startle reflex.

Main Results:

• Several animal models show some predictive validity for drug development, though motor suppression measures may limit utility.
• Other models demonstrate construct validity linked to proposed immune and neural circuit etiologies of TS.
• The sensorimotor gating model shows promise for understanding TS pathophysiology and treatment.

Conclusions:

• Animal models are essential for advancing Tourette Syndrome research, including pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacologic treatments like behavioral therapy and deep brain stimulation (DBS).
• Continued development and application of diverse animal models will enhance the understanding and treatment strategies for Tourette Syndrome.