Reviewing the mitochondrial dysfunction paradigm in rodent models as platforms for neuropsychiatric disease research

Neuropsychiatric disorders have complex pathophysiological constructs, requiring translational models to improve our understanding thereof. Mitochondrial dysfunction, generally associated with neurodegenerative disorders, is gaining interest as a key factor in the etiology of psychiatric conditions because of the often comorbid psychiatric symptoms observed. Although translational models of psychiatric disorders, support mitochondrial involvement, these models do not have a dysfunctional bio-energetic system as primary construct. Here, we consider the construct, face, and predictive validity of mitochondrial models from a neuropsychiatric perspective, to identify novel animal models that can improve our understanding of the underlying bio-energetic mechanisms of these conditions and treatments.