[Correlation between cataleptic freezing and prestimulation inhibition of the startle reflex in rats].

In rats of GC strain bred for predisdposition to cataleptic freezing, a significant negative correlation between the duration of freezing and the level of prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle reflex, has been found. Besides, in a group of GC rats specific by their "nervousness" and jumpiness, there was also a negative correlation between the duration of freezing and the habituation to the startle reflex. None of this correlation have been found in Wistar rats. Since impairment of the PPI and habituation of the startle reflex is considered to be characteristic of schizophrenia, it is believed than cataleptic freezing in the GC rats may be used as a model of schizophrenic psychopathology.