Modeling tics in rodents: Conceptual challenges and paths forward.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Animal Models
• Tourette Syndrome Research

Background:

• Recent advances in neurobiology have yielded novel rodent models for Tourette syndrome (TS).
• Assessing the validity and utility of these models is challenging due to incomplete knowledge of tic underpinnings and limitations in animal testing.
• Superficial resemblance of motor bursts to tics is insufficient for model validation; etiological and phenomenological criteria are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss complementary approaches for studying and validating tic-like manifestations in rodents.
• To propose a framework for enhancing the rigorous evaluation and translational relevance of animal models of tic disorders.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing contextual modulators and accompanying features of repetitive motor manifestations.
• Reproducing known pathogenic factors associated with tic disorders.

Main Results:

• Neither approach alone convincingly validates a model's recapitulation of tic pathophysiology.
• Combining both strategies shows promise for improving the evaluation of rodent models.

Conclusions:

• A systematic consideration of validation approaches is essential for future research.
• This framework aids in the rigorous evaluation and translational relevance of animal models for tic disorders.