Russian researchers have revealed a new genetic mutation that may be linked to the emergence of symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, after observing a subtle change in the PLAU gene, which is responsible for regulating nerve cell migration and getting rid of excess nerve connections during brain development.
The study showed, according to experiments, that a change in only one genetic rule within this gene was sufficient to cause clear shifts in the behavior of mice, as they became more inclined to isolation and less interactive with others.
The mice also showed elevated levels of anxiety and repetitive behaviors, traits that resemble some of the symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder.
The researchers also concluded that this mutation caused an increase in the thickness of an area of the brain known as the somatosensory cortex, which is responsible for processing information coming from the various senses such as hearing, sight, and touch.
In contrast, the researchers noted that mice carrying the genetic mutations were able to find maze exits more quickly under stressful conditions, which may indicate improved ability to focus and pay attention while carrying out tasks.
Maxim Karagiauer, one of the researchers at Moscow University in Russia, said: The importance of this discovery is not limited to identifying a new genetic defect associated with autism, but also includes developing an animal model that can be used to study the causes of the disorder in more depth and test new drugs and treatments in the future.
The scientific team believes that these results may contribute to developing more accurate methods for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, and also pave the way for future research aimed at improving treatments and reducing the influence of some genetic factors associated with the disorder.
The study showed, according to experiments, that a change in only one genetic rule within this gene was sufficient to cause clear shifts in the behavior of mice, as they became more inclined to isolation and less interactive with others.
The mice also showed elevated levels of anxiety and repetitive behaviors, traits that resemble some of the symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder.
The researchers also concluded that this mutation caused an increase in the thickness of an area of the brain known as the somatosensory cortex, which is responsible for processing information coming from the various senses such as hearing, sight, and touch.
In contrast, the researchers noted that mice carrying the genetic mutations were able to find maze exits more quickly under stressful conditions, which may indicate improved ability to focus and pay attention while carrying out tasks.
Maxim Karagiauer, one of the researchers at Moscow University in Russia, said: The importance of this discovery is not limited to identifying a new genetic defect associated with autism, but also includes developing an animal model that can be used to study the causes of the disorder in more depth and test new drugs and treatments in the future.
The scientific team believes that these results may contribute to developing more accurate methods for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, and also pave the way for future research aimed at improving treatments and reducing the influence of some genetic factors associated with the disorder.
