How does early life influence the brain and behavioural profile of a mouse model for schizophrenia

Cardiff University

About the Project

Rare variants in the gene SETD1A are consistently linked to the incidence of schizophrenia. Using a mouse model in which Setd1a is deleted (“knocked-out”, Setd1a-ko) we, and others, have identified deficits in behaviour and brain activity related to information processing. In addition, our work has demonstrated that the adult brain and behavioural profile of Setd1a-ko mice may, in part, be due to changes that occur very early in life. This project aims to explore how the brain and behavioural profile of Setd1a-ko mice develops.

Specifically, the primary objective are:

• Define the cognitive profile of Setd1a-ko mice using sophisticated behavioural neuroscience methods

• Examine how Setd1a-ko mouse behaviour develops in early life using home-cage monitoring

• Use a conditional model to dissociate indirect effects of Setd1a deletion on brain and behavioural development

Please contact Professor Anthony Isles,  for more information about this project.       

Application forms and further information about applying to the Hodge PhD Scholarship Programme can be obtained from .

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Provisional Interview Date – Tuesday 25th June 2024

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