Title : Animal models of neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors : Eric J Nestler & Steven E Hyman
Journal : Nature Neuroscience
Publication Date : 2010
Citation : Nestler EJ, Hyman SE.Animal models of neuropsychiatric disorders.Nat Neurosci.2010;13(10):1161-9.
Direct Link : "http://www.nature.com/neuro/journal/v13/n10/full/nn.2647.html" (doi:10.1038/nn.2647)
Abstract :
Modeling of human neuropsychiatric disorders in animals is extremely challenging given the subjective nature of many symptoms, the lack of biomarkers and objective diagnostic tests, and the early state of the relevant neurobiology and genetics. Nonetheless, progress in understanding pathophysiology and in treatment development would benefit greatly from improved animal models. Here we review the current state of animal models of mental illness, with a focus on schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder. We argue for areas of focus that might increase the likelihood of creating more useful models, at least for some disorders, and for explicit guidelines when animal models are reported.