BDNF(+/-) mice displayed a global reduction in grooming activity, with fewer bouts and transitions between specific grooming stages, altered grooming syntax, as well as hypolocomotion and increased turning behavior (Kyzar et al., 2012). Abnormal BDNF serum levels in ASD cases have also been reported (Nelson et al., 2001; Miyazaki et al., 2004; Connolly et al., 2006; Hashimoto et al., 2006). Two meta-analyses of BDNF levels in autism found evidence for higher BDNF levels in ASD cases compared with controls (Armeanu et al., 2016; Zheng et al., 2016).
Molecular Function
During development, promotes the survival and differentiation of selected neuronal populations of the peripheral and central nervous systems. Participates in axonal growth, pathfinding and in the modulation of dendritic growth and morphology. Major regulator of synaptic transmission and plasticity at adult synapses in many regions of the CNS.
External Links
References
Type
Title
Type of Disorder
Associated Disorders
Author, Year
Primary
Alterations in grooming activity and syntax in heterozygous SERT and BDNF knockout mice: the utility of behavior-recognition tools to characterize ...
Model Type:
Genetic
Model Genotype:
Heterozygous
Mutation:
Disruption.
Allele Type: Targeted (Knock Out)
Strain of Origin: Not specified
Genetic Background: ES Cell Line: Not specified
Mutant ES Cell Line: Not Specified
Model Source: Not Specified
Description: Decreased grooming bouts, episodes and total transitions, lower paw licking, body/leg wash, rostral grooming and caudal grooming frequeny
Exp Paradigm: Automated monitoring of animals in home cage
