“Improving our understanding of how autism works at a molecular level is key to developing new treatments and therapies.” Dr. Hsiao-Huei ChenThe enzyme PTP1B may be a new target for treating autism spectrum disorder, according to a study published in Nature Communications.

The study is led by Dr. Li Zhang in a collaboration between Dr. Hsiao-Huei Chen and her team at the Ottawa Hospital and uOttawa, and Dr. Alexandre Stewart at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

The research team found that blocking the activity of PTP1B reversed autism-like behaviours in a mouse model of the condition (created by deleting a protein called LMO4 from certain parts of the brain). Without treatment, these mice display autism-like behaviours, such as reduced social interaction and repetitive grooming or digging.

If this research is confirmed, it may open the door to clinical trials using drugs that target PTP1B to reduce autism symptoms. A drug that targets this protein has already been tested in clinical trials for obesity and could be repurposed to treat autism.

The team previously identified PTP1B as a target to treat Alzheimer’s disease and anxiety as well.

“Improving our understanding of how autism works at a molecular level is key to developing new treatments and therapies.” Dr. Hsiao-Huei Chen, senior scientist at The Ottawa Hospital and associate professor at the University of Ottawa.

Source: Nature Communications

Authors: Li Zhang, Zhaohong Qin, Konrad Ricke, Shelly Cruz, Alexandre Stewart, Hsiao-Huei Chen

Funding: Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Ontario Mental Health Institute, Canadian Diabetes Association, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council

Core Facilities: University of Ottawa Animal Behavior Core

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