Animal Models

Letting a Typical Mouse Judge Whether Mouse Social Interactions are Atypical

Submitted by djohnson on February 28, 2013 - 14:01
Source: 
Autism Research
Link: 
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23436806?dopt=Abstract
Date Published: 
February 21, 2013
Abstract: 

This interesting preliminary study examined whether typical mice could recognize atypical social behavior in ASD mouse models. Wild-type mouse 'judges' preferred to be in chambers with other typical mice rather than socially atypical mice, suggesting that typical mice can distinguish mice displaying autism-like behavior from controls.

SFARI Gene

Submitted by djohnson on February 21, 2013 - 13:40
Source: 
SFARI
Link: 
https://gene.sfari.org/autdb/Welcome.do
Date Published: 
February 21, 2013
Abstract: 

SFARI Gene is an integrated resource for the autism research community. It is a publicly available, curated, web-based, searchable database for autism research. This resource is built on information extracted from the studies on molecular genetics and biology of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The genetic information includes data from linkage and association studies, cytogenetic abnormalities, and specific mutations associated with ASD.

Astroglial FMRP-Dependent Translational Down-regulation of mGluR5 Underlies Glutamate Transporter GLT1 Dysregulation in the Fragile X Mouse

Submitted by djohnson on February 15, 2013 - 14:47
Source: 
Human Molecular Genetics
Link: 
http://hmg.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2013/02/07/hmg.ddt055.abstract
Date Published: 
February 7, 2013
Abstract: 

This paper discusses the role fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) plays in protein expression in astrocytes, and suggests that FMRP loss in astrocytes may contribute to the development of fragile X.

Modeling an Autism Risk Factor in Mice Leads to Permanent Immune Dysregulation

Submitted by cgold on January 11, 2013 - 14:33
Source: 
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Link: 
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22802640
Date Published: 
July 31, 2012
Abstract: 

"Increasing evidence highlights a role for the immune system in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as immune dysregulation is observed in the brain, periphery, and gastrointestinal tract of ASD individuals. Furthermore, maternal infection (maternal immune activation, MIA) is a risk factor for ASD. Modeling this risk factor in mice yields offspring with the cardinal behavioral and neuropathological symptoms of human ASD."

Maternal Autism-Associated IgG Antibodies Delay Development and Produce Anxiety In A Mouse Gestational Transfer Model

Submitted by cgold on January 11, 2013 - 13:55
Source: 
Journal of Neuroimmunology
Link: 
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22951357
Date Published: 
November 15, 2012
Abstract: 

"A murine passive transfer model system was employed to ascertain the effects of gestational exposure to a single, intravenous dose of purified, brain-reactive IgG antibodies from individual mothers of children with autism (MAU) or mothers with typically developing children (MTD). Growth and behavioral outcomes in offspring were measured from postnatal days 8 to 65 in each group. Comparisons revealed alterations in early growth trajectories, significantly impaired motor and sensory development, and increased anxiety. This report demonstrates for the first time the effects of a single, low dose gestational exposure of IgG derived from individual MAU on their offspring's physical and social development."

FMRP Targets Distinct mRNA Sequence Elements to Regulate Protein Expression

Submitted by djohnson on December 18, 2012 - 13:51
Source: 
Nature
Link: 
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature11737.html
Date Published: 
December 12, 2012
Abstract: 

Researchers link Fragile X syndrome protein to 93 genes that have been implicated in ASD. Lead investigator says the findings may lead to more detailed genetic tests.

Researchers Swing Toward Monkey Models of Autism

Submitted by djohnson on October 19, 2012 - 15:36
Source: 
SFARI
Link: 
http://sfari.org/news-and-opinion/conference-news/2012/society-for-neuroscience-2012/researchers-swing-toward-monkey-models-of-autism
Date Published: 
October 18, 2012
Abstract: 

Scientists reveal efforts to create transgenic monkey models of autism. Compared to mice and rats, these animals are more genetically similar to humans, and display more complex social and communicative behaviors.

SFARI Reviews Mouse Models Used in Autism Genetics Research

Submitted by djohnson on October 10, 2012 - 09:19
Source: 
Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative
Link: 
http://sfari.org/news-and-opinion/directors-columns/2012/pick-of-the-litter?utm_source=Master+List+-+Weekly+Newsletter&utm_campaign=a27c10c784-SFARI_Newsletter_120925&utm_medium=email
Date Published: 
September 25, 2012
Abstract: 

New genetic variants that increase susceptibility to autism are emerging at a rapid pace from scans for copy number variants (CNVs) — deletions or duplications of DNA segments — and next-generation sequencing. Given the profusion of data, it seems timely to assess the availability and usefulness of mouse models in which to study these genetic risk factors.

Shared Synaptic Pathophysiology in Syndromic and Nonsyndromic Rodent Models of Autism

Submitted by djohnson on September 17, 2012 - 15:06
Source: 
Science
Link: 
http://www.sciencemag.org/content/early/2012/09/12/science.1224159
Date Published: 
September 13, 2012
Abstract: 

A new study finds that faulty neuronal circuits in autistic brains can be corrected even after the “critical window” of brain development.

Simple Worms could Help Unravel Complex Human Brains

Submitted by Anonymous on August 2, 2012 - 10:56
Source: 
Simons Foundation Austism Research Initiative
Link: 
http://sfari.org/news-and-opinion/toolbox/2012/simple-worms-could-help-unravel-complex-human-brains
Date Published: 
July 25, 2012
Abstract: 

The nematode "Caenorhabditis elegans" may serve as a useful model to study synapses, the junctions between neurons.