Researchers culture a strain of Lactobacillus reuteri from human breast milk and introduced it to mice. They discovered treatment with this bacterial strain appeared to rescue social behaviors.
Researchers report the administration of Lactobacillus reuteri may lead to brain changes that reverse social deficits in mouse models of ASD through a mechanism that involves the vagus nerve and reward system. The findings hold promise for the development of treatments for ASD, as well as other disorders, by modulating specific gut microbes.
