Exp Neurobiol.  2015 Dec;24(4):285-300. 10.5607/en.2015.24.4.285.

Exploring the Validity of Valproic Acid Animal Model of Autism

• Mabunga DF
• Gonzales E
• Kim JW
• Kim KC
• Shin CY

• KMID: 2165565
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5607/en.2015.24.4.285

Abstract

The valproic acid (VPA) animal model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most widely used animal model in the field. Like any other disease models, it can't model the totality of the features seen in autism. Then, is it valid to model autism? This model demonstrates many of the structural and behavioral features that can be observed in individuals with autism. These similarities enable the model to define relevant pathways of developmental dysregulation resulting from environmental manipulation. The uncovering of these complex pathways resulted to the growing pool of potential therapeutic candidates addressing the core symptoms of ASD. Here, we summarize the validity points of VPA that may or may not qualify it as a valid animal model of ASD.

Keyword

autism spectrum disorder; construct validity; face validity; predictive validity; animal model; social communication deficit

MeSH Terms

Animals*
Autistic Disorder*
Child
Models, Animal*
Valproic Acid*
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Valproic Acid