Developing zebrafish experimental animal models relevant to schizophrenia

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a severely debilitating, lifelong psychiatric disorder affecting approximately 1% of global population. The pathobiology of schizophrenia remains poorly understood, necessitating further translational research in this field. Experimental (animal) models are becoming indispensable for studying schizophrenia-related phenotypes and pro/antipsychotic drugs. Mounting evidence suggests the zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a useful tool to model various phenotypes relevant to schizophrenia. In addition to their complex robust behaviors, zebrafish possess high genetic and physiological homology to humans, and are also sensitive to drugs known to reduce or promote schizophrenia clinically. Here, we summarize findings on zebrafish application to modeling schizophrenia, as well as discuss recent progress and remaining challenges in this field. We also emphasize the need in further development and wider use of zebrafish models for schizophrenia to better understand its pathogenesis and enhance the search for new effective antipsychotics.

Keywords: Negative symptoms; Positive symptoms; Rodent models; Schizophrenia; Translational research; Zebrafish.