Epilepsy Drugs Successfully Reverse Autism Symptoms in Mice, New Study

Epilepsy Drugs Successfully Reverse Autism Symptoms in Mice, New Study

In a groundbreaking study poised to reshape our understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), researchers at Stanford Medicine have identified the reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN) as a critical neurological hub whose hyperactivity appears to drive many behaviors characteristic of the disorder. This discovery unfolds new avenues for targeted treatments that could alleviate core symptoms of autism by modulating specific brain circuits. The RTN,…

Experimental Drugs Reverse Autism Symptoms

Researchers have identified hyperactivity in the reticular thalamic nucleus as a driver of autism-like behaviors in mice. This brain region, which gates sensory information, was found to be overactive during stimuli and social interactions, leading to seizures, repetitive behaviors, and social withdrawal.

Autism Symptoms Reversed in Mice Using Epilepsy Drug Candidate

Stanford Medicine scientists investigating the neurological basis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have found that hyperactivity in a specific brain region could drive behaviors commonly associated with the disorder. Using the Cntnap2 knockout mouse model, the researchers, led by John Huguenard, PhD, professor of neurology and neurological sciences, identified the reticular thalamic nucleus (RT)—which serves as a gatekeeper of sensory informati…