Autism Target Discovered in Endothelial Cells in Genetic Deletion Mouse Model
Researchers reversed certain behavioral symptoms in a 16p11.2 deletion mouse model of autism spectrum disorder by activating the P2Y2 receptor in endothelial cells of brain blood vessels, which increased blood flow in the brain. The post Autism Target Discovered in Endothelial Cells in Genetic Deletion Mouse Model appeared first on GEN - Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News .
Researchers at The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa have discovered a possible new treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by targeting endothelial cells in the brain blood vessels. The study, published in Neuron, found that a deletion in the 16p11.2 gene causes abnormalities in these endothelial cells, which in turn leads to reduced levels of ATP and impaired blood flow.
This metabolic dysfunction is linked to behavioral symptoms such as hyperactivity and repetitive movements. By activating the P2Y2 receptor on these cells, the researchers were able to rescue the endothelial dysfunction, restore blood flow, and reverse the autism-like behaviors in adult mice. The study suggests that targeting P2Y2 receptors with a selective pharmacological agonist could be a promising strategy for treating ASD.
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