By RG-TEA
Recent studies reveal that Cannabidiol (CBD) and Metformin may be promising in treating behavioral difficulties associated with syndromes linked to autism spectrum disorder, such as Fragile X syndrome and Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Research conducted in mouse models has demonstrated significant improvements in speech, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors. These results were presented at the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) Forum 2024.
Dr. Ilse Gantois, a researcher at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, highlighted the effectiveness of these treatments in animal models, and the potential applicability in humans. “Most medications currently available to treat conditions such as Fragile X syndrome have a range of side effects. We are looking for alternatives that can offer results without compromising patients’ quality of life”, said Dr. Gantois.
The study indicates that Metformin, traditionally used to treat type 2 diabetes, can correct biochemical differences in the brains of mice that model Fragile X syndrome from birth. The results suggest that this medication has the potential to prevent the development of impaired speech and repetitive behavior in the models studied.
In parallel, the use of CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, has shown promising results in young mice bred to model the same syndrome. “When the mice reached adulthood, their repetitive and social behaviors were comparable to those of a control mouse,” explained Dr. Gantois, highlighting the potential of CBD to improve aspects of neurological and behavioral development.
Ongoing clinical trials seek to confirm these promising findings in humans, with the hope that both treatments may offer safe and effective alternatives for managing autism spectrum disorders.
Professor Richard Roche, Deputy Head of the Department of Psychology at Maynooth University and member of the FENS Forum communications committee, not involved in the research, also commented on the importance of these studies: “We need more research to better understand these conditions and explore potential treatments. Mouse models offer a vital window into underlying brain mechanisms and allow us to assess the effectiveness of new treatments.”
These studies represent an important step in the search for more effective treatments with fewer side effects for complex conditions associated with autism spectrum disorder, paving the way for significant improvements in patients’ quality of life.
