Effects of GABA Supplementation on Grooming Behavior and Social Interaction in a Propionic Acid-Induced Rat Model of Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired social communication and repetitive behaviors. Propionic acid (PPA)-induced rodent models are commonly used to study ASD-like behaviors and evaluate potential therapies. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) supplementation in mitigating PPA-induced behavioral deficits. Methods: Forty male Western Albino rats were divided into four groups: control, PPA-treated, GABA-treated, and PPA-GABA-treated. Behavioral assessments were conducted using the three-chamber social test to evaluate social interaction and repetitive behaviors. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test. Results: PPA administration significantly impaired social interaction without causing significant changes in repetitive grooming behaviors compared to the control group, as evidenced by reduced time spent in the social chamber and increased time in the object chamber. GABA supplementation significantly improved social interaction, while causing a slight but non-significant increase in repetitive grooming behaviors. Conclusion: GABA supplementation demonstrated partial therapeutic effects in mitigating the social deficits induced by PPA administration in a rodent model of ASD. However, the observed increase in grooming behavior highlights the complex role of GABA in modulating ASD-like symptoms, suggesting the need for further investigation into its dual behavioral effects.