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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
07:38
Generating Acute and Chronic Experimental Models of Motor Tic Expression in Rats
Published on: May 27, 2021
[Tics and Tourette's syndrome throughout the life span]
1Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen. ineuner@ukaachen.de
Der Nervenarzt
|October 27, 2009
Summary
Tourette's syndrome (TS) involves chronic motor and vocal tics, often with ADHD. Dopaminergic dysregulation in brain circuits may underlie TS, with treatments targeting this system showing promise.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurobiology
- Psychiatry
Context:
- Tourette's syndrome (TS) is defined by chronic motor and vocal tics, typically emerging before age 11.
- Boys experience TS at three times the rate of girls, with peak tic severity around age 14.
- While 50% of cases see near-complete remission, severe TS often co-occurs with comorbidities like ADHD, anxiety, and affective disorders.
Purpose:
- To explore the neurobiological underpinnings of Tourette's syndrome.
- To review current and potential pharmacological treatments for TS, particularly concerning comorbidities.
Summary:
- TS is associated with dopaminergic neurotransmission dysregulation within cortico-striatal-thalamic-cortical (CSTC) circuits.
- Current TS treatments, primarily atypical neuroleptics, often target the dopaminergic system but are frequently used off-label.
- Atomoxetine shows potential for tic improvement in patients with comorbid ADHD, and early findings for aripiprazole are encouraging.
Impact:
- Understanding the neurobiology of TS can guide the development of more targeted therapies.
- Investigating off-label and comorbid treatments like atomoxetine and aripiprazole may improve patient outcomes.
- This research highlights the need for approved and effective treatments for TS and its associated conditions.
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