Differential function of phosphodiesterase families in the brain: gaining insights through the use of genetically modified animals

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are the only known enzymes to degrade cAMP and cGMP, intracellular signaling molecules key to numerous cellular functions. There are 11 PDE families identified to date, and each is expressed in a unique pattern across brain regions. Here, we review genetic mouse models in which PDEs are either directly manipulated (e.g., genetically deleted) or are changed in a compensatory manner due to the manipulation of another target. We believe these genetic mouse models have contributed to our understanding of how the PDE1, PDE4, and PDE10 families contribute uniquely to overall brain function.