| Abstract [eng] |
Schizophrenia (SZ) is a psychiatric disorder affecting approximately 1% of the population, characterized by auditory hallucinations, delusions, and social withdrawal. To better understand the underlying mechanisms of the disorder, animal models are commonly employed. One of the most frequently used models of schizophrenia involves systemic blockade of NMDA receptors using antagonists. This approach induces schizophrenia-like symptoms in animals, including behavioural alterations such as increased locomotor activity and cognitive impairments, alongside changes in brain function. Notably, alterations in auditory steady-state responses (ASSRs) have been observed, which are considered potential electrophysiological biomarkers of schizophrenia, relevant for both diagnosis and prognosis. However, it remains unclear how these electrophysio-logical markers are associated with behavioural changes observed in schizophrenia models, par-ticularly within control (healthy) groups. Understanding the relationship between ASSRs and cognitive or emotional behavioural traits could enhance the interpretation of ASSR alterations in pathological contexts. The aim of this master's thesis was to assess the relationship between parameters of brain electrical activity and behavioural traits in healthy mice. The behavioural tests employed included the Y-maze, open field, and novel object recognition tasks. Additionally, spontaneous brain activi-ty and the capacity for neural synchronization in response to auditory stimuli of various frequen-cies (ASSRs) were evaluated. The results revealed a negative correlation between anxiety-related behaviour and working memory performance. Behavioural parameters did not correlate with measures of spontaneous brain activity. However, positive correlations were identified between 40 Hz ASSR and locomotor activity, as well as between 10 Hz ASSR and anxiety levels. In conclu-sion, this study contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between behaviour and ASSRs in mice and provides a foundation for future research using rodent models of schizophre-nia. |
