The University of Queensland

Social behaviour in rats developmentally deficient in Vitamin D: modelling the negative symptoms of schizophrenia (2008–2012)

Abstract:

We are exploring low maternal vitamin D as a biological explanation for a 7-10% increase in the incidence of patients born with schizophrenia in the colder months of the year worldwide. Developmental vitamin D (DVD) deficiency in rats leads to long term changes in brain development and behaviour. The aim of this research is to examine social behaviour in DVD deficient rates as a model of negative symptoms of schizophrenia and establish the neurochemical basis for this altered behaviour.

Grant type:

NHMRC Project Grant

Researchers:

• 

  Professor Thomas Burne

  Professorial Research Fellow
  

  Queensland Brain Institute

• 

  Professor Darryl Eyles

  Professor (Conjoint)
  

  Queensland Brain Institute

• 

  Professor John McGrath

  Conjoint Professor
  

  Queensland Brain Institute

  ATH - Professor
  

  Medical School (GBCS)

  Faculty of Medicine

Funded by:

National Health and Medical Research Council