The Evaluation of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Working Memory in Valproic Acid Animal Model of Autism

Autism, a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, is characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, as well as restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior. Changes in serum level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) play a role in autism etiology. However, the serum levels and the mechanism of action of BDNF in autism are needed to be elucidated. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the serum levels of BDNF and its relation with working memory in valproic acid animal model of autism.
Female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two Phosphate-Buffered Saline receiver (PBS) and Valproic Acid receiver (VPA) groups. The pregnant rats were recieved VPA (500 mg/kg/ip) or PBS for 12.5 days after gestation. We evaluated the offspring in postnatal days 30 and 60. To measure changes in working memory and the periodic behaviors of the animals, Y maze test was used. In addition, the serum levels of BDNF were determined by ELISA method.
Increased alteration behavior was observed in Y-maze test among offspring received VPA group compared to control rats. The serum levels of BDNF in VPA rats were significantly higher than PBS group.
BDNF increases accompanied by enhancement of periodic behaviors in VPA rats suggested a crucial role of this protein in working memory of autistic individuals.