Supplement combination Shows Promise in Improving Social Behaviors in Autism Mouse Models
NEW YORK, NY – A novel combination of three readily available supplements – branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), serine, and zinc – has demonstrated significant improvements in brain function and social behaviors in multiple mouse models of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), according to a new study published by Wiley. Researchers found the trio, administered in low doses, boosted protein synthesis and synapse activity, offering a potential avenue for future ASD treatments.
the study, led by researchers who sought to leverage synergistic effects and minimize potential side effects, investigated the impact of the supplement combination on brain activity and behavior. The team chose to focus on the amygdala, a brain region known to exhibit structural and size differences in individuals with ASD compared to neurotypical individuals.
Individually,none of the supplements produced noticeable changes in the mice. Though, when administered together, the researchers observed improvements in protein synthesis within the brain, increased synapse activity, and positive changes in social behaviors in two of the three mouse models tested.
“Dietary supplements that enhance synaptic activity and protein synthesis can correct the abnormal neural activation and connectivity and improve the social behaviors of multiple ASD mouse models,” the authors wrote in their publication.
Co-first author Ming-Hui Lin expressed excitement about the findings, stating, ”I was thrilled to observe that just 7 days of treatment with the nutrient mixture considerably modulated neuronal circuit activity and connectivity in real time. These results provide strong support for the beneficial effects of low-dose nutrient supplement combinations.”
Despite the promising results, experts caution against self-treatment. Researchers emphasize the potential risks of altering supplement regimens without professional guidance. Speaking with Medical News Today (MNT), researcher Knöbel warned of potential side effects like insomnia, and highlighted the dangers of administering supplements to children due to their smaller size and increased vulnerability to “dangerous metabolic loads.”
Clinical psychologist Eleni Nicolaou echoed these concerns, telling MNT that improperly dosed supplements “can cause significant changes in sleep, heart rate, and the effects of medications,” and that she has personally observed fatigue, nausea, and mood swings as an inevitable result of supplement use.
While this study represents a significant step forward in understanding ASD and potential therapeutic interventions, researchers stress the need for further investigation before any clinical applications can be considered.
