Deficiency of sterol regulatory element ‐binding protein‐1c induces schizophrenia‐like behavior in mice

This study used SREBP‐1c knockout (KO) mice to examine whether a deficiency in SREBP‐1c would affect their emoti onal and psychiatric behaviors. Altered mRNA expression in genes downstream from SREBP‐1c was confirmed in the brains of SREBP‐1c KO mice. Schizophrenia‐like behavior, including hyperactivity during the dark phase, depressive‐like behavior, aggressive behavior, and deficits in social interac tion and prepulse inhibition were observed in SREBP‐1c KO mice. Furthermore, increased volume of the lateral ventricle was detected in SREBP‐1c KO mice. The mRNA levels of several γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐receptor subtypes and/or glutamic acid decarboxylase 65/67 decreased in the hippocam pus and medial prefrontal cortex of SREBP‐1c KO mice. Thus, SREBP‐1c deficiency may contribute to enlargement of the lateral ventricle and development of schizophrenia‐like behaviors and be associated with altered GABAergic transmission.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Source: Genes, Brain and Behavior - Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research