A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania suggests that sensory neurons outside the brain may drive autistic social behaviors.
The study focused on the loss of the neurofibromin 1 protein in fruit flies, which led to social impairments similar to those seen in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
The findings indicate that disruptions in the flow of information from the periphery to the brain may be the root cause of social deficits observed in ASD.
This research suggests that targeting peripheral sensory systems rather than the central brain may be a more effective approach for treating ASD-related symptoms.
The study also highlights the importance of understanding the function of neurofibromin 1 in order to develop therapeutic targets for sensory processing in ASD patients.
The researchers hope to identify drugs that can restore social behaviors through testing in animal models. The study was supported by grants and awards from the National Institutes of Health and other organizations.
The original article can be found here.
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