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

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, IslesAR1@cardiff.ac.uk for more information about this project.       

Application forms and further information about applying to the Hodge PhD Scholarship Programme can be obtained from HodgeAdmin@cardiff.ac.uk.

Competed application forms must be sent to HodgeAdmin@cardiff.ac.uk

Only one form will be considered per applicant. You can select up to 2 projects funded by the Hodge PhD Scholarship Programme in one application form. 

Only Home applicants are eligible to apply for projects.

Provisional Interview Date – Tuesday 25th June 2024