The microbial metabolite p-Cresol induces autistic-like behaviors in mice by remodeling the gut microbiota.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are associated with dysregulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, changes in microbiota composition as well as in the fecal, serum, and urine levels of microbial metabolites. Yet a causal relationship between dysregulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis and ASD remains to be demonstrated. Here, we hypothesized that the microbial metabolite p-Cresol, which is more abundant in ASD patients compared to neurotypical individuals, could induce ASD-like behavior in mice.

Results

Mice exposed to p-Cresol for 4 weeks in drinking water presented social behavior deficits, stereotypies, and perseverative behaviors, but no changes in anxiety, locomotion, or cognition. Abnormal social behavior induced by p-Cresol was associated with decreased

SUBMITTER: Bermudez-Martin P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8268286 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature