Abstract

Background:
The cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is currently still unclear. Research on the etiology and biomolecular aspects of autism is needed to develop further prevention and therapy strategies. Animal models of autism are needed for further research.

Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the effect of valproic acid administration on motor coordination and sensory function in Mus musculus as an animal model of autism.

Methods:
This study used M. musculus that were ready to be mated and waited until they were pregnant. Randomization was carried out using the website random.org, and the participants were divided into two groups: the control and experimental groups. On embryo day 12.5, the control group was injected intraperitoneally with normal saline, and the experimental group was injected intraperitoneally with 600 mg/kg body weight of valproic acid. The offspring of the mice underwent autism symptom behavior test, motor coordination, and pain response.

Results:
There were significant differences in the negative geotropism test and hot plate test between the control and experimental groups (p < 0.05). The experimental group that was intraperitoneally injected with valproic acid takes longer to reorient on an inclined plane as part of motor coordination skills. The experimental group also provided a longer response time to heat stimuli on a hot plate, indicating an abnormal response to pain stimuli.

Conclusion:
Intraperitoneally injected M. musculus with valproic acid showed symptoms of autism, especially disorders in motor coordination and response to pain stimuli.

Key words: Animal model; Autism; Behavior; Mental health; Valproic acid.