Investigator: Christopher Bloom, Providence College

Collaborative Mentor: Katharine Phillips, Brown University & Rhode Island Hospital

Scientific Theme: Neuroscience

Abstract: This project proposes a new animal model of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). BDD is characterized by preoccupation with perceived slight or imagined physical flaws, the effects of which can be debilitating. The mental health and social functioning measures in individuals with BDD are worse than both the general population and a comparative sample of individuals with diagnoses of clinical depression. Additionally, 25% of individuals with BDD have attempted suicide and that an overwhelming majority (80%) reported past or current suicidal ideation. Previous work reports a significant enrichment in a mutation in the gabrg2 gene, localized on the human Chromosome 5q in people diagnosed with BDD. Using gabrg2 null mice, we propose to test the impact of gene deletion on the expression of grooming behavior in mice. This project has the potential to develop the first animal model of BDD. Development of such a model will be a critical translational tool for understanding the neurobiological basis of this devastating disorder. This model will provide: 1) a substrate for testing specific hypotheses regarding the role of the gabrg2 gene on pathological behavior, 2) the impact of these manipulations on broader gene expression patterns, 3) its impact on neurodevelopment, and 4) a method for screening compounds to treat this often-disabling disorder.

Human Health Relevance: Body dysmorphic disorder is characterized by preoccupation with perceived slight or imagined physical flaws, the effects of which can be debilitating. The proposed project develops a translational model to investigate the underlying neurobiological, environmental and genetic antecedents to this poorly understood disorder.