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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Pioglitazone abolishes cognition impairments as well as BDNF and neurotensin disturbances in a rat model of autism

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Author(s):
Kirsten, Thiago B. [1, 2] ; Casarin, Renato C. [3] ; Bernardi, Maria M. [2, 3] ; Felicio, Luciano F. [1]
Total Authors: 4
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Vet Med, Dept Pathol, BR-05508270 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] Univ Paulista, Environm & Expt Pathol, BR-04026002 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[3] Univ Paulista, Grad Program Dent, BR-04026002 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Journal article
Source: BIOLOGY OPEN; v. 8, n. 5 MAY 2019.
Web of Science Citations: 1
Abstract

We have shown that exposure of rats to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) during gestation induces autistic-like behaviors in juvenile offspring and pioglitazone post treatment corrects social and communication deficits. The first objective of the present study was to evaluate the cognition of the rats, because this is also a behavioral sphere committed in autism. Second, biomarkers related to pioglitazone pathways and autism were studied to try to understand their mechanisms. We used our rat model of autism and pioglitazone was administered daily to these young offspring. T-maze spontaneous alternations tests, plasma levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), beta-endorphin, neurotensin, oxytocin, and substance P were all studied. Exposure of rats to LPS during gestation induced cognitive deficits in the young offspring, elevated BDNF levels and decreased neurotensin levels. Daily postnatal pioglitazone treatment abolished cognition impairments as well as BDNF and neurotensin disturbances. Together with our previous studies, we suggest pioglitazone as a candidate for the treatment of autism, because it improved the responses of the three most typical autistic-like behaviors. BDNF and neurotensin also appeared to be related to the autistic-like behaviors and should be considered for therapeutic purposes. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 12/07007-8 - Possible prevention or treatment of impairments induced by an early prenatal exposure to lipopolysaccharide in an experimental model of autism
Grantee:Thiago Berti Kirsten
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral