Beta-carotene as a novel therapy for the treatment of Autistic like behavior in animal models of Autism

Autism-affected individuals are characterized by lower plasma oxytocin and its ectoenzyme regulator CD38. Oxytocin, a hypothalamic hormone secreted upon the release of CD38, plays a role in social behavior and bonding. All-trans retinoic acid is a potent inducer of CD38 and can be used as a novel therapeutic strategy in autism. We investigated the role of beta-carotene in rescuing autistic-like behavior in BALB/c and BTBR mice. Beta-carotene derivatives are preferred as they are neither toxic nor teratogenic. Beta-carotene at 0.1-5.0 mg/kg was administered orally to BALB/c and BTBR newborn mice on days 1-7. They were tested at age 2-3 months for five behavioral tests for autism; in addition, brain CD38, oxytocin, oxytocin receptor, Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and retinoic acid receptor gene expression, serum oxytocin levels, and neurological score were evaluated. Beta-carotene administered at birth significantly increased T-maze alternations and led to longer time spent with an unfamiliar mouse in the three-chamber test and less time spent in the empty chamber. Furthermore, enhanced activity in the open field test; increased time spent in the reciprocal social interaction test; decreased grooming and bedding behaviors; and enhanced brain CD38, oxytocin, oxytocin receptor, BDNF, retinoic acid gene expression, and serum oxytocin levels. No changes in neurological score were observed. Beta-carotene oral supplementation to BALB/c and BTBR mice at birth significantly reduced restricted and stereotyped behaviors and interests, increased social interactions and communication, CD38, and oxytocin, probably by enhancing brain neuroplasticity without toxicity. Thus, beta-carotene administered after birth to newborns of families predisposed to autism has the potential to prevent/ameliorate autistic like behavior. These results support further clinical studies.