Rethinking the Role of DISC1 in CNS Function: Translational Cross-Taxon Insights From Rodent and Zebrafish Models

Encoding a key 'hub' scaffolding protein, the 'Disrupted-In-Schizophrenia-1' (<i>DISC1</i>) 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. <i>DISC1</i> is abundantly expressed in the brain of humans and various model organisms. Here, we discuss currently available animal models of <i>DISC1</i>-related brain deficits and their clinical relevance. We focus on evolutionarily conserved (shared) mechanisms and species-specific phenotypes, especially in newly developed zebrafish (<i>Danio rerio</i>) models, to better understand the uniquely complex role of <i>DISC1</i> in the molecular pathogenesis of neurobehavioral abnormalities relevant to human neuropsychiatric disorders.