A cross-species approach to disorders affecting brain and behaviour

Area of Science:

• Comparative neurology
• Translational neuroscience
• Veterinary psychiatry

Background:

• Biological systems exhibit conserved structural and functional elements across vertebrates.
• Neurological and psychiatric conditions manifest in both humans and animals, presenting opportunities for cross-species research.
• Limited collaboration between human and veterinary medicine hinders the use of comparative data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the translational potential of cross-species research in understanding and treating neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• To identify novel factors influencing vulnerability and resilience to brain disorders through natural animal models.
• To review current research on specific conditions like pain, cognitive decline, epilepsy, and anxiety disorders across species.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on neurological and psychiatric conditions in various animal species.
• Analysis of conserved biological mechanisms relevant to brain function and behavior.
• Identification of spontaneous animal models exhibiting disorders relevant to human conditions.

Main Results:

• Cross-species comparisons reveal conserved patterns in neurological and psychiatric conditions.
• Natural animal models offer unique insights into disease mechanisms, vulnerability, and resilience.
• Advances in human medicine can be adapted for veterinary patients, and vice versa.

Conclusions:

• A cross-species approach is crucial for advancing the understanding of human brain and behavior disorders.
• Enhanced collaboration between physicians and veterinarians can unlock significant translational potential.
• This perspective facilitates hypothesis generation, improves clinical trials, and identifies natural models of disease resistance and vulnerability.