Neurodevelopmental rat models of schizophrenia

Animal models are very valuable for biomedical research. They enable to disclose pathological processes of the diseases and their treatment possibilities. Development of appropriate animal models of complex neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, is challenging since many clinical symptoms are difficult to replicate and assess in animals. There is strong evidence that disturbed brain development plays a key role in schizophrenia. Neurodevelopmental rat models thus provide an important tool for schizophrenia research. Here we shortly review the most widely used models.