A Single Amino Acid Mutation in SNAP-25 Induces Anxiety-Related Behavior in Mouse
Author Information
Author(s): Kataoka Masakazu, Yamamori Saori, Suzuki Eiji, Watanabe Shigeru, Sato Taku, Miyaoka Hitoshi, Azuma Sadahiro, Ikegami Shiro, Kuwahara Reiko, Suzuki-Migishima Rika, Nakahara Yohko, Nihonmatsu Itsuko, Inokuchi Kaoru, Katoh-Fukui Yuko, Yokoyama Minesuke, Takahashi Masami
Primary Institution: Kitasato University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The phosphorylation of SNAP-25 plays a crucial role in the regulation of emotional behavior.
Conclusion
The study found that a mutation in SNAP-25 led to increased anxiety-related behaviors and reduced neurotransmitter release in mice.
Supporting Evidence
- The homozygous mutant mice showed strong anxiety-related behavior in activity tests.
- Serotonin and dopamine release were significantly reduced in the amygdala of mutant mice.
- Mutant mice displayed increased freezing behavior in response to environmental changes.
- Initial delay before moving was significantly longer in mutant mice compared to wild-type.
- Mutant mice showed a strong preference for dark areas in light-dark preference tests.
- Spontaneous convulsive seizures were observed in the mutant mice.
- Behavioral variability was greater in mutant mice across repeated tests.
Takeaway
Scientists changed a tiny part of a protein in mice and found that it made them act more anxious and affected how their brains released important chemicals.
Methodology
The researchers created a mutant mouse with a specific genetic change and observed its behavior and neurotransmitter release.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on one mutation and its effects, which may not represent all aspects of SNAP-25 function.
Participant Demographics
The study involved genetically modified mice, specifically the Snap25S187A/S187A strain.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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