Understanding Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia involves changes in perception, cognition, emotion and social function. Preclinical research addresses selected biological and functional features through appropriate models and study-specific endpoints.
At MuriPhys, we specialize in providing comprehensive preclinical research solutions aimed at unraveling the underlying mechanisms of schizophrenia and accelerating the development of novel therapeutics.
Precision CNS Drug Delivery
Schizophrenia research can examine questions involving the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum or other relevant regions. Select the route and target around the model and hypothesis.
- Intraparenchymal (IPa) Delivery – Direct administration to specific brain regions for localized effect.
- Intracerebroventricular (ICV) Injection – Broad drug distribution across the CNS, targeting diffuse brain structures.
- Intrathecal (IT) Administration: Delivery into cerebrospinal fluid for an appropriate CNS distribution question.
- Intra Cisterna Magna (ICM) Delivery – Facilitates drug dispersal via cerebrospinal fluid pathways.
Delivery conditions and dose are defined for the test article and study design, with distribution and response assessed through appropriate readouts.
Behavioral Models and Assays
Behavioral evaluation is crucial for schizophrenia research, as the disorder presents with deficits in cognition, social interaction, and motor function. MuriPhys provides a broad spectrum of behavioral tests to model these phenotypes, delivering robust data for preclinical studies:
- Open Field Test – Assesses locomotion, anxiety, and exploratory behavior.
- Y-Maze and T-Maze – Evaluate working memory and spatial learning.
- Conditioned Place Preference – Measures reward sensitivity and associative learning.
- Novel Object Recognition – Tests memory and recognition, reflecting cognitive impairments.
- Shuttle Box and Habitset Chambers – Analyze decision-making, cognitive flexibility, and repetitive behaviors.
These assays characterize selected behavioral features in the chosen model. Method readiness, controls and limitations are considered when interpreting treatment-related findings.
Electrophysiology – Mapping Neural Dysfunction
EEG can characterize population-level brain activity, including study-appropriate oscillatory measures. EMG can add neuromuscular readouts. Recording conditions, analysis and relevance to the schizophrenia model are defined for the study.
Electrophysiology services include:
- EEG Monitoring – Tracks cortical activity, aiding in the identification of biomarkers linked to cognitive deficits and psychosis.
- EMG Analysis – Evaluates neuromuscular coordination and motor anomalies that may accompany schizophrenia models.
These tools offer a window into the neural circuits affected by schizophrenia, facilitating the development of targeted interventions.
Why Choose MuriPhys for Schizophrenia Research?
Partner with MuriPhys to advance your schizophrenia research from concept to clinical readiness.
Get in touch with us to learn more about our capabilities.