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Precise Magnetic Stimulation of the Paraventricular Nucleus Improves Sociability in a Mouse Model of ASD

Summary

Researchers developed a new magnetic stimulation technique using tiny iron nanoparticles to precisely target a specific brain region called the paraventricular nucleus. When stimulated at 10 Hz, this region releases oxytocin, a hormone that improves social behavior. In mice with autism-like symptoms, one week of this treatment significantly improved their sociability and reduced anxiety, offering a promising non-invasive therapy for autism.

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) involves complex neural circuits with social deficits that are difficult to treat. Current magnetic stimulation techniques like rTMS lack the precision and penetration depth to target deep brain nuclei. The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) regulates oxytocin secretion, which plays a crucial role in social behavior.

Objective

To develop a precise magnetic stimulation system using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles to target the PVN and improve sociability in a mouse model of ASD through oxytocin activation.

Results

10-Hz pMSS effectively activated oxytocinergic neurons in the PVN, increasing oxytocin secretion up to 1500 pg/mL. Treatment for one week significantly improved sociability, reduced anxiety, and decreased repetitive behaviors in ASD mice. Oxytocin receptor antagonist blockade prevented these behavioral improvements, confirming the oxytocin-dependent mechanism.

Conclusion

SPION-mediated magnetic stimulation enables precise deep brain stimulation of the PVN to activate oxytocin release, rapidly improving social behavior in ASD models. This approach offers a promising non-invasive therapeutic strategy for treating autism and other psychiatric disorders related to social deficits.
  • Published in:Neuroscience Bulletin,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 40760231, DOI: 10.1007/s12264-025-01444-x
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