Memantine Treatment and Its Impact on Brain Glutathione Levels and Social Function in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An In Vivo MRS Study

Motivation: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) creates major burdens for families and healthcare. Despite ASD's diversity, biomarkers like glutathione (GSH) are underexplored as therapeutic targets. This study examines if memantine, an NMDA antagonist, modulates GSH levels, potentially improving social function. Goal(s): To assess memantine's effects on brain GSH levels in youth with ASD and their correlation with social function improvements. Approach: A 12-week study of 15 ASD youth used 4 Tesla 2D-JPRESS MRS to measure pgACC GSH at baseline and post-treatment, assessing social function via the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Results: Memantine elevated pgACC GSH and improved SRS scores, especially Social Communication. Impact: Memantine's impact on GSH levels and social function in ASD suggests new therapeutic avenues to address oxidative stress-related impairments. These findings offer preliminary evidence that could guide future research and therapeutic strategies targeting ASD's core social deficits.