A protocol for establishing a male G×E schizophrenia mouse model

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Schizophrenia pathogenesis is influenced by gene-environment interactions (G×E).
• Existing models may not fully capture the complexity of schizophrenia etiology.
• BDNF gene variations are implicated in schizophrenia risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a protocol for a novel rodent model of schizophrenia.
• To establish a specific genetic and environmental factor (G×E) pair for schizophrenia research.
• To facilitate basic research and drug development for schizophrenia.

Main Methods:

• Breeding of Bdnf-e6-/- mice with a deficiency in promoter-VI-driven BDNF expression.
• Exposure of mice to postnatal environmental stressors: hypoxia, social isolation, and corticosterone.
• Detailed protocol for creating a G×E schizophrenia rodent model.

Main Results:

• Successful generation of a rodent model incorporating specific G×E factors relevant to schizophrenia.
• The model integrates genetic predisposition (Bdnf deficiency) with environmental triggers.
• The protocol provides a reproducible method for schizophrenia modeling.

Conclusions:

• The developed rodent model offers a more accurate representation of schizophrenia etiology.
• This model can serve as a valuable tool for investigating schizophrenia pathogenesis.
• It may accelerate the discovery and development of novel therapeutic strategies for schizophrenia.