The translationally relevant mouse model of the 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome reveals deficits in neuronal spike firing matching clinical neurophysiological biomarkers seen in schizophrenia

J. Thelin, P. Halje, J. Nielsen, M. Didriksen, P. Petersson, J. F. Bastlund
2016 Acta Physiologica  
See Editorial Commentary: K. Nakazawa. 2016. Electrophysiological evidence for defective fast-spiking GABAergic neurones in a schizophrenia model. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 220, 14-15. Abstract Aim: To date, the understanding and development of novel treatments for mental illness is hampered by inadequate animal models. For instance, it is unclear to what extent commonly used behavioural tests in animals can inform us on the mental and affective aspects of schizophrenia. Methods: To link
more » ... ical processes in an animal model to clinical findings, we have here utilized the recently developed Df(h15q13)/ + mouse model for detailed investigations of cortical neuronal engagement during pre-attentive processing of auditory information from two backtranslational auditory paradigms. We also investigate if compromised putative fast-spiking interneurone (FSI) function can be restored through pharmacological intervention using the Kv3.1 channel opener RE1. Chronic multi-array electrodes in primary auditory cortex were used to record single cell firing from putative pyramidal and FSI in awake animals during processing of auditory sensory information. Results: We find a decreased amplitude in the response to auditory stimuli and reduced recruitment of neurones to fast steady-state gamma oscillatory activity. These results resemble encephalography recordings in patients with schizophrenia. Furthermore, the probability of interneurones to fire with low interspike intervals during 80 Hz auditory stimulation was reduced in Df(h15q13)/+ mice, an effect that was partially reversed by the Kv3.1 channel modulator, RE1. Conclusion: This study offers insight into the consequences on a neuronal level of carrying the 15q13.3 microdeletion. Furthermore, it points to deficient functioning of interneurones as a potential pathophysiological mechanism in schizophrenia and suggests a therapeutic potential of Kv3.1 channel openers. J Thelin et al. · 15q13 mice show neurophysiological biomarkers J Thelin et al. · 15q13 mice show neurophysiological biomarkers J Thelin et al. · 15q13 mice show neurophysiological biomarkers J Thelin et al. · 15q13 mice show neurophysiological biomarkers J Thelin et al. · 15q13 mice show neurophysiological biomarkers
doi:10.1111/apha.12746 pmid:27364459 pmcid:PMC5412918 fatcat:vq3bgl55e5bc5nz4xczh4z5wye