Gad2-null mice are viable and fertile. Gross appearance is similar to wildtype littermates; brain weight is unaffected, as is cytoarchitecture. Starting as early as 12 weeks of age, homozygous-null mice develop stress-generated seizures induced by cage lid removal and other routine handling. This epileptic syndrome results in increased mortality with 70% of mice failing to survive to 7 months of age. Other phenotypic observations * defect in the plastcicity of the visual cortex during development * increased anxiety-like responses in open field and elevated zero maze assays * diminished response to anxiolytics (anti-anxiety agents) * Defect in the ability to sustain maximum gamma-aminobutyric acid release during stimulation Genetic background influences this strain's phenotype. Homozygous-null mice on a mixed NOD,129 background exhibit a higher incidence of apparently less severe seizures than mice on a B6,129 background (also see Stock No. 003653).

These Gad2 knock-out mice exhibit stress-generated seizures. They are suitable for use in applications related to the study of epilepsy.

Typically mice are recovered in 12-16 weeks. Contact Customer Service to place an order or for more information.

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