Role of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SL42 in modulating wistar rat autistic behavior.

Abstract

Several studies have shown a link between brain development and autism (ASD) neurobehavior. Exposure to specific gut microbiota induces behavioral changes in animals as well as humans. Current literature indicates that the gut microbiota may affect several mechanisms related to autism. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of a probiotic strain from breast milk on ASD Wistar rat neurobehavior at juvenile age. A rat autistic-like model was produced by intraperitoneal injection of sodium propionic acid (PPA) to 3-week-old rats from day -4 to day 0. The rats were given the probiotic strain of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SL42 (109 CFU/mL) daily from day -4 to day 14 and compared to control and PPA-induced rats without treatment. Behavioral tests (grip test, social behaviors, open field, and Elevated plus-maze) were performed on days 7 and/or 14. At the end of the experience, brain tissues were subjected to histological analysis. Significant positive effects of the SL42 probiotic strain have been observed on social interaction, and anxiety parameters. In addition, probiotic treatment corrects the PPA-induced neuron number increased in the prefrontal cortex and improves prefrontal-related behavioral functions. These data suggest that probiotic strain SL42 supplementation could be a potential therapeutic method to correct ASD-like symptoms in toddlers.