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Reconsidering animal models used to study autism spectrum disorder: Current state and optimizing future
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Reconsidering animal models used to study autism spectrum disorder: Current state and optimizing future

Jill L Silverman, Audrey Thurm, Sarah B Ethridge, Makayla M Soller, Stela P Petkova, Ted Abel, Melissa D Bauman, Edward S Brodkin, Hala Harony-Nicolas, Markus Wöhr, …
Genes, brain and behavior, Vol.21(5), e12803
03/14/2022
DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12803
PMCID: PMC9189007
PMID: 35285132

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Abstract

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID), are pervasive, often lifelong disorders, lacking evidence-based interventions for core symptoms. With no established biological markers, diagnoses are defined by behavioral criteria. Thus, preclinical in vivo animal models of NDDs must be optimally utilized. For this reason, experts in the field of behavioral neuroscience convened a workshop with the goals of reviewing current behavioral studies, reports, and assessments in rodent models. Goals included: (a) identifying the maximal utility and limitations of behavior in animal models with construct validity; (b) providing recommendations for phenotyping animal models; and (c) guidelines on how in vivo models should be used and reported reliably and rigorously while acknowledging their limitations. We concluded by recommending minimal criteria for reporting in manuscripts going forward. The workshop elucidated a consensus of potential solutions to several problems, including revisiting claims made about animal model links to ASD (and related conditions). Specific conclusions included: mice (or other rodent or preclinical models) are models of the neurodevelopmental insult, not specifically any disorder (e.g., ASD); a model that perfectly recapitulates a disorder such as ASD is untenable; and greater attention needs be given to validation of behavioral testing methods, data analysis, and critical interpretation.
Autism genetic mouse models developmental models genetic disorder neurodevelopmental disorder social syndrome behavior intellectual disability

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