Therapeutic effects of Acetyl-11-Keto-Beta-Boswellic Acid (AKBA) on autism-like behaviours and oxidative stress in a valproic acid-induced mouse model

Objective: To evaluate the effects of AKBA on behavioural abnormalities and oxidative stress markers in a valproic acid (VPA)-induced mouse model of ASD. Methods: Pregnant mice received a single intraperitoneal injection of VPA (600 mg/kg) on gestational day 12 to induce ASD-like behaviours in offspring. Postnatal mice were treated orally for 20 days with AKBA (5 mg/kg or 15 mg/kg), risperidone (1 mg/kg), or saline. Behavioural assessment was performed using the open field test. Brain tissues were analysed for oxidative stress biomarkers, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6). Results: VPA-exposed mice exhibited significantly increased anxiety-like behaviour, grooming, and oxidative stress compared to controls (p ≤ 0.001). AKBA treatment significantly reduced line crossings and grooming behaviour while increasing latency in the central zone, suggesting anxiolytic effects. Biochemically, AKBA significantly decreased MDA and IL-6 levels and increased GSH concentrations compared to VPA-only mice. These effects were dose-dependent and comparable to or exceeded those of risperidone. Conclusion: AKBA demonstrated significant anxiolytic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in a mouse model of autism. These findings suggest that AKBA may represent a potential therapeutic candidate for managing ASD-related behaviours and oxidative stress.