1- MSc in Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran 2- Physiology, Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran , amin.edalatmanesh@gmail.com
Abstract: (5028 Views)
Background: Autism, a behavior-developmental disorder, is characterized by impairments in social interaction, communications, as well as restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior. The studies revealed changes in hippocampal level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in autism etiology. However, their level and mechanism of action are needed to be elucidated. This study aimed to determine the hippocampal levels of BDNF and its relation with spatial memory in valproic acid animal model of autism.
Materials and methods: In this experimental study, 40 male and female Sprague Dawley rat pups were divided into two Phosphate-Buffered Saline receiver (PBS, n=20) and Valproic Acid receiver (VPA, n=20) groups. VPA model of autism was induced by intra-peritoneal administration of VPA (500 mg/kg) at 12.5 days after gestation. To measure changes in spatial memory Morris water maze test was used. Then, the hippocampal levels of BDNF were determined by ELISA method.
Results: Increased spatial memory was observed in Morris water maze test among VPA group compared to PBS group. In addition, the hippocampal levels of BDNF in VPA rats were significantly higher than PBS group (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Increasing BDNF showed enhancement of spatial memory in VPA rat model of autism.
Keywords: Autism, Valproic acid, BDNF, Spatial memory.
Borzu Z, Edalatmanesh M A. The evaluation of hippocampal level of brain derived neurotrophic factor and spatial memory in valproic acid animal model of autism. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2017; 27 (2) :97-104 URL: http://tmuj.iautmu.ac.ir/article-1-1249-en.html