Melatonin Improves Intestinal Barrier Impairment in a Mouse Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

ABSTRACT: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition mainly characterized by social impairments and repetitive behaviors. An altered intestinal barrier morphology and increased transmucosal leaks have also been implicated in ASD; in fact, comorbidities such as gastrointestinal problems (leaky gut) have frequently been reported in these patients. The regulation of tight junctions (TJs) is essential in maintaining intestinal barrier morphology and in regulating the delicate balance of trafficking between the intestinal lumen and the submucosa. To date, there are no definitive treatments for ASD comorbidities; however, melatonin (MLT) represents a well-validated and tolerated treatment for sleep disorders in ASD patients. The potential beneficial effects of MLT on this disorder ha

SUBMITTER: Sulas F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12650372 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature