A remedy for tuberculosis may help people with autism

Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania have performed a study on mice with autism. The test animals took D-cycloserine, which is normally used for tuberculosis. Due to this remedy the rodents improved their social skills, UPI.com reports.

The researchers have found that problems in Pcdh10 gene caused disorders of social behavior, as well as the disturbance of structure and functioning of neural chain in amygdala associated with autism behavioral symptoms. There was a lack of one Pcdh10 gene copy in amygdala neurons in autism rodents. In addition, NMDA-receptor subunits levels were reduced. This affected the excitability of neuronal chain.

The above mentioned problems were more common in male mice than in females. The researchers decided to find out the effect of D-cycloserine on rodents. NMDA-receptors were a target for the remedy. The remedy activates NMDA-receptors. According to the experts, the use of D-cycloserine had a positive effect on the social behavior of the rodents.

Source: UPI.com.