The Utility of Genetically Modified Animals in Modeling OCD-Spectrum Disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) inflicts uncontrollable, intrusive thoughts and ritualistic, compulsive behaviors affecting approximately 3% of the population. Clinical symptoms of OCD can be categorized as checking, hoarding, washing, or ordering. Mounting evidence suggests that OCD phenotypes can be modeled effectively, and with remarkable validity, through translational approaches in ethological animal models. Experimental models of OCD-like behavior, including nesting, marble burying, grooming, spatial alternation, and barbering allow researchers to investigate the neurobiological mechanisms responsible for this disorder. While its exact pathogenesis remains unknown, genetic factors also play a key role in OCD. Genetic animal models of OCD and related disorders are now becoming available, aiding researchers in identifying associated neural pathways and pharmacological treatments. Here, we discuss how some genetically modified animals may be used for modeling OCD-like endophenotypes.