Rethinking the Role of

Encoding a key 'hub' scaffolding protein, the 'Disrupted-In-Schizophrenia-1' (DISC1) gene has been strongly implicated in brain development and functions. Genetic variance in this gene is associated with major neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. DISC1 is abundantly expressed in the brain of humans and various model organisms. Here, we discuss currently available animal models of DISC1-related brain deficits and their clinical relevance. We focus on evolutionarily conserved (shared) mechanisms and species-specific phenotypes, especially in newly developed zebrafish (Danio rerio) models, to better understand the uniquely complex role of DISC1 in the molecular pathogenesis of neurobehavioral abnormalities relevant to human neuropsychiatric disorders.