A group of Chinese scientists created genetically engineered monkeys in order to better understand autism. The DNA of these monkeys were altered for them to develop an autism-like disorder, allowing scientists to study brain activity that could help in finding the proper treatment for autism.
Yahoo News mentioned that the study was published in Nature journal, where it accounted that monkeys were used since their brain circuitry closely resembles that of human beings. By simulating the behavioral pattern of autism in these modified monkeys, scientists will be able to test new treatments that could help in alleviating symptoms.
Two hundred monkeys were utilized for the research conducted at Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences in China. According to the scientists involved, once these monkeys will produce an offspring, the genetic defect will be passed on to their babies, creating a good number of monkeys that can be utilized for more research.
Zilong Qiu, one of the scientists said that, "Once we know the brain circuits responsible, we can start intervening." They would also be able to use noninvasive procedures as part of their study.
The Guardian has mentioned that research conducted to find treatment for autism was previously done with mice. However, due to the difference in the brain structure between mice and humans, the results were not always promising.
According to the Institute of Neuroscience Director Mu-Ming Poo, the genetically-engineered monkeys will not be replacing mice in research studies. However, one advantage is that some shortcomings of research on mice may be overcome by monkeys due to the similarity of their brains to humans.
While monkeys tend to be expensive as compared to mice, the more significant results will certainly outweigh the cost. With this scientific breakthrough, there might just be hope for families with autistic patients in their care.
