Lack of autism risk gene disrupts prefrontal cortex connectivity in mice

Adult male mice lacking the gene Shank3 display structural and functional deficits in the prefrontal cortex, finds a study published in JNeurosci. The research advances our understanding of one of the most common genetic risk factors for autism spectrum disorders.

Shank3 mutations are commonly observed in humans with autism and related developmental disorders. Previous animal research documents associations between Shank3 and basal ganglia dysfunction, which may contribute to repetitive behaviors characteristic of autism. In humans, Shank3 mutations have also been linked to intellectual and language difficulties.

Using magnetic resonance imaging in mice, Alessandro Gozzi and colleagues demonstrate reduced prefrontal cortex connectivity and gray matter volume in Shank3-deficient animals. The researchers report these brain differences are tightly linked to impaired social interaction with female mice. These findings establish a role of Shank3 in maintaining prefrontal cortex connectivity, which may increase autism risk when disrupted.

Citations

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

  • APA

    Society for Neuroscience. (2019, June 19). Lack of autism risk gene disrupts prefrontal cortex connectivity in mice. News-Medical. Retrieved on October 14, 2024 from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20190507/Lack-of-autism-risk-gene-disrupts-prefrontal-cortex-connectivity-in-mice.aspx.

  • MLA

    Society for Neuroscience. "Lack of autism risk gene disrupts prefrontal cortex connectivity in mice". News-Medical. 14 October 2024. <https://www.news-medical.net/news/20190507/Lack-of-autism-risk-gene-disrupts-prefrontal-cortex-connectivity-in-mice.aspx>.

  • Chicago

    Society for Neuroscience. "Lack of autism risk gene disrupts prefrontal cortex connectivity in mice". News-Medical. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20190507/Lack-of-autism-risk-gene-disrupts-prefrontal-cortex-connectivity-in-mice.aspx. (accessed October 14, 2024).

  • Harvard

    Society for Neuroscience. 2019. Lack of autism risk gene disrupts prefrontal cortex connectivity in mice. News-Medical, viewed 14 October 2024, https://www.news-medical.net/news/20190507/Lack-of-autism-risk-gene-disrupts-prefrontal-cortex-connectivity-in-mice.aspx.

Comments

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of News Medical.
Post a new comment
Post

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.

You might also like...
Short chain fatty acid supplementation improves stroke recovery, mice study shows