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

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.

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