The overexpression of eIF4E decreases oxytocin levels and induces social-cognitive behavioral disorders in mice

Abstract

Overexpression of the eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) gene has been associated with excessive stereotypic behaviors and reduced sociability, which manifest as autism-like social cognitive deficits. However, the precise mechanisms by which eIF4E overexpression induces insufficiently these autism-like behaviors and the specific brain regions implicated remain insufficiently understood . Oxytocin, a neurotransmitter known for its role in social behavior, has been proposed to modulate certain autism-related symptoms by influencing microglial function and attenuating neuroinflammation. Nonetheless , the contributions of the hippocampus and oxytocin in the content of eIF4E overexpression-induced autistic behaviors remain elucidated . To investigate this issue,esearchers utilized the three-chamber social interaction test, the open field test, and the Morris water maze to evaluate the social cognitive behaviors of the two groups of mice. Additionally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and RT-qPCR were employed to quantify oxytocin levels and assess hippocampal microglial activation.The results indicate that overexpression of eIF4E in mice is associated with significant impairments in social cognition, alongside pronounced marked hyperactivation of hippocampal microglia.Significance statement Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a range of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social cognitive impairment.Research has indicated a correlation between the overexpression of the eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) gene and autism-like social cognitive impairment.Oxytocin (OXT), a neurotransmitter, plays a role in regulating hippocampal microglial activity and attenuating neuroinflammation. This modulation may impact social cognition in individuals with autism.Nevertheless,it remains unclear whether there is an involvement of the hippocampus and oxytocin in autism-like social cognitive impairments due to eIF4E overexpression. The present study suggests that overexpression of eIF4E may induce hyperactivation of microglia and contribute to social cognitive impairment by decreasing oxytocin levels in the hippocampus.These findings offer molecular insights into the manifestation of autism-like behavior resulting from eIF4E overexpression and may guide future clinical interventions.