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Altered functional brain network connectivity and glutamate system function in transgenic mice expressing truncated
N Dawson1, M Kurihara2, D M Thomson3
11] Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK [2] Centre for Neuroscience (CeNsUS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK [3] Psychiatric Research Institute for Neuroscience in Glasgow (PsyRING), Universities of Glasgow and Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.
Discovering how DISC1 gene truncation impacts brain connectivity and function in psychiatric diseases. This study reveals glutamate system dysfunction and altered neural networks in Disc1tr Hemi mice.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Psychiatric Research
Background:
- Disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) is implicated in psychiatric disorders.
- Its role in brain network connectivity is largely unknown.
- Previous research focused on molecular, cellular, and behavioral aspects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of DISC1 gene truncation on functional brain network abnormalities.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms of these abnormalities.
- To assess translational relevance for psychiatric diseases.
Main Methods:
- Utilized complementary approaches in mice with truncated Disc1 (Disc1tr Hemi mice).
- Assessed functional brain network connectivity using hypometabolism and electrophysiological analyses.
- Examined glutamate system function via ketamine response and NMDAR subunit expression.
Main Results:
- Disc1tr Hemi mice showed prefrontal cortex and reticular thalamus hypometabolism.
- Observed reorganized brain connectivity, including compromised hippocampal-PFC connections.
- Found reduced presynaptic neurotransmitter release and glutamate system dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- DISC1 truncation leads to altered brain connectivity and network function.
- Glutamate system dysfunction is a key mechanism underlying these changes.
- Findings offer insights into DISC1's role in psychiatric disease endophenotypes.
