Targeted fecal microbiota transplantation ameliorates autism-like behaviors via gut-brain axis and excitatory/inhibitory balance restoration in a propionic acid mouse model

Nov 3, 2025Brain, behavior, and immunity

Targeted gut bacteria transplant improves autism-like behaviors by restoring gut-brain communication and brain activity balance in a mouse model

AI simplified

Abstract

Targeted fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from donors with high Lactobacillus abundance improved social interaction deficits in a propionic acid-induced ASD mouse model.

  • Mice exposed to propionic acid displayed ASD-like behaviors such as anxiety, repetitive grooming, and deficits in social interactions.
  • Alterations in gut microbiota composition and levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were observed in the ASD mouse model.
  • FMT from high Lactobacillus donors was more effective at restoring social interactions compared to FMT from lower Lactobacillus donors.
  • Targeted FMT restored gut microbiota diversity and enriched beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus, Roseburia, and Blautia.
  • The intervention reduced propionic acid levels in feces and the prefrontal cortex, normalizing the excitatory/inhibitory balance in the brain.
  • Electrophysiological recordings indicated that FMT corrected the excitatory/inhibitory imbalance in prefrontal cortex neurons.

AI simplified

Full Text

Full text is available at the source.

what lands in your inbox each week:

  • 📚7 fresh studies
  • 📝plain-language summaries
  • direct links to original studies
  • 🏅top journal indicators
  • 📅weekly delivery
  • 🧘‍♂️always free