Gestational diabetes induces autistic-like behaviors in offspring by disrupting the GABAergic system.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Increasing evidence have shown that gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with the risk of autism in offspring. However, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated.

Methods

A mouse model of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was established to investigate its impact on offspring. Behavioral analyses were conducted to assess social novelty and stereotypic behaviors. Neuronal excitability in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) was evaluated using c-Fos staining after social behavior stimulation. Single-cell transcriptomics and metabolomics were employed to analyze changes in the GABAergic system.

Results

Behavioral analyses revealed that GDM led to impaired social novelty and increased stereotypic behaviors in male offspring. c-Fos stai

SUBMITTER: Liu XQ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11861160 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature