Mouse Models to Advance Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

In the realm of neurodevelopmental disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) stands as a multifaceted challenge. Despite its prevalence and impact, the precise etiology of ASD remains elusive, making it a subject of intense scientific inquiry. One promising avenue in ASD research involves the development and utilization of mouse models to unravel its complexities.

Creative Biolabs, a globally trusted authority in the field of neuroscience research, continuously makes headway in the scientific landscape. Among our thriving areas of research is the study of ASD using mouse models. By digging deep into the genetics and neurobiological pathways, our scientists are focused on understanding ASD to pave the way for precision therapeutic strategies.

We have extensive experience in generating complex neuroscience animal models. As a partner, we offer the following related services to help accelerate the progress of your autism drug program.

ASD Mouse Models

ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. While the exact causes of ASD are still unclear, it is widely believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. The genetic basis of ASD can be described as complex and multifaceted. A vast array of de novo and inherited genetic variants spread across numerous genes has been associated with ASD. The ongoing research is centered on identifying and exploring these genetic perturbations. It is in situ where the role of animal models becomes virtually indispensable. By dissecting these atypical genetic alterations using animal models, scientists can potentially unravel the complexity of ASD.

Fig. 1 The types of genetic variation associated with ASD.¹

Mouse models are a powerful tool for investigating human neuropsychiatric disorders, and ASD is no exception. Creating mouse models that accurately represent human ASD down to the last intricate detail is, undoubtedly, a daunting task. By introducing mutations in the genes associated with ASD into mice, researchers can study the resulting changes in mouse behavior, brain neurobiology, and molecular pathways.

There are mainly three kinds of ASD mouse models.

• Monogenic Models: These are created by targeting a single gene implicated in ASD (for example, the Fmr1 gene for Fragile X syndrome, the single most common inherited cause of ASD). The generated mice recapitulate some aspects of human ASD, including behavioral, neural, and molecular abnormalities.
• Multi-genic Models: ASD is believed to arise from the interaction of multiple genetic variations rather than a single gene alteration. Therefore, creating mouse models with mutations at multiple genetic locations provides a closer imitation of human ASD.
• Environmental Models: These are designed by introducing specific environmental factors during crucial neurodevelopmental stages that can increase ASD susceptibility, such as maternal immune activation or exposure to toxins.

In addition to mouse models, a number of cellular models are also important tools commonly used in ASD research. You can browse the table below to see a list of our recommended products.

Methodologies in ASD Mouse Model Research

The study of ASD mouse models employs a diverse range of methodologies to elucidate the genetic, molecular, and behavioral aspects of the disorder.

Contributions of ASD Mouse Models to Research

With these genetically engineered mouse models, scientists can recreate certain behavioral, neural, and molecular aspects indicative of ASD, thereby transforming the complete understanding of this complex disorder.

• Elucidating Genetic Pathways
  • Identification of ASD-associated genes and genetic pathways involved in synaptic function, neuronal development, and neural circuitry.
  • Insights into the role of synaptic proteins, neurotransmitter systems, and signaling pathways in ASD pathogenesis.
• Modeling Behavioral Phenotypes
  • Recapitulation of core ASD-like behaviors including social deficits, communication impairments, repetitive behaviors, and cognitive inflexibility.
  • Characterization of sex-specific differences, developmental trajectories, and environmental modifiers influencing ASD-related phenotypes.
• Investigating Neural Circuits
  • Mapping of neural circuits and brain regions implicated in ASD-related behaviors, including the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, striatum, and cerebellum.
  • Dissection of circuit-level abnormalities such as synaptic connectivity deficits, excitation-inhibition imbalances, and alterations in neurotransmitter release.
• Preclinical Drug Screening
  • Evaluation of pharmacological compounds, gene therapies, and behavioral interventions for their efficacy in ameliorating ASD-related symptoms.
  • Validation of potential drug targets and therapeutic strategies in preclinical models prior to clinical trials in human patients.

The ASD mouse model provides valuable insights but still has challenges and limitations such as phenotypic variability, validity, and heterogeneity. Therefore there is a need to continue to drive innovation in ASD research and to keep deepening the understanding of ASD through mouse models.

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At Creative Biolabs, our goal remains unwavering to help our clients unravel the mysteries of the genetic complexity of ASD using specialized ASD mouse models.

Reference

1. Jiang, Chen-Chen, et al. "Signalling pathways in autism spectrum disorder: mechanisms and therapeutic implications." Signal transduction and targeted therapy 7.1 (2022): 229.

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