Melatonin Improves Intestinal Barrier Impairment in a Mouse Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is linked to gastrointestinal issues like
• leaky gut
• characterized by altered intestinal barrier function.
• Tight junctions (TJs) are crucial for maintaining intestinal barrier integrity.
• Melatonin (MLT) is a safe treatment for sleep disorders in ASD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of oral melatonin (MLT) administration on the intestinal barrier in a mouse model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Main Methods:

• Oral administration of MLT (10 mg/kg/day for 16 weeks) to BTBR mice (an ASD model).
• Morphological analysis of the ileum, including villus height (Vh), crypt depth (Cd), and TJ expression.
• Comparison with control C57BL6/J mice.

Main Results:

• ASD model mice exhibited altered Vh, Cd, Vh-Cd ratios, inflammation, reduced Paneth cells, and abnormal TJ expression.
• MLT administration normalized these morphological indices and TJ expression.
• These changes indicate improved gut barrier morphology and reduced transmucosal leaks.

Conclusions:

• Oral MLT administration can promote intestinal barrier remodeling in an ASD mouse model.
• MLT may be an effective adjuvant therapy for reducing "leaky gut" in ASD.
• The safety and cost-effectiveness of MLT support its potential therapeutic use.