Characteristics of behaviors and prepulse inhibition in phospholipase C -/- mice

Background: Phospholipase C (PLC) isozymes have been implicated in schizophrenia and may play a role in the disease process. Phospholipase C (PLC) isozyme is an effector of Ras and Rap small GTPases and regulates intracellular signal transduction. Little is known about its role in signaling pathways in the central nervous system that mediate higher brain functions such as learning, memory and social behavior that are disrupted in schizophrenia. Objectives: To determine the effects of PLC on social behavior, spatial memory and prepulse inhibition of acoustic (PPI) startle response in PLC -/- mice. Methods: Using a social interaction test, Morris water maze, and PPI. Results: We found that PLC -/- mice showed increased social interactions and increased novelty-seeking exploratory behavior. Interestingly, PLC -/- mice also showed improved performance on the Morris water maze task and enhanced PPI. Conclusion: These findings suggest that PLC negatively regulates cognitive and social behaviors.© 2012 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.