An approach to mental disorders using model mice

在此之前，我们发现泛素特异性肽酶46 （Usp46）是在悬尾和强迫游泳测试中减少静止行为时间的基因之一。该基因不仅参与不动的调节，还参与许多其他行为表型的调节。在本研究中，为了了解Usp46突变引起的行为障碍的生理生化机制，我们从遗传和环境两个角度对Usp46突变小鼠进行了研究。结果，我们发现Usp46在许多大脑区域表达，并通过gaba能系统调节几种行为表型。我们还发现Usp46小鼠易受压力影响，表现出较差的母性行为。然而，如果产后给予适当的母性护理，即使在这些基因脆弱的小鼠中，不良的母性行为也可以得到改善。

Previously, we identified ubiquitin specific peptidase 46 (Usp46) as one of the genes responsible for reductions in time spent immobile behavior in the tail suspension and forced swim test. This gene is involved in the regulation of not only immobility but also many other behavioral phenotypes. In this study, in order to understand physiological and biochemical mechanisms of behavioral disorders caused by Usp46 mutation, we studied Usp46 mutant mice from both genetic and environmental points of view. As a result, we found that Usp46 is expressed in a number of brain regions and regulates several behavioral phenotypes through GABAergic system. We also found that Usp46 mice are vulnerable to stress, and exhibit poor maternal behavior. Poor maternal behavior, however, can improve if adequate postpartum maternal care is given, even in these genetically vulnerable mice.