Autistic dogs?

Post Reply New Topic

Scientists have developed animal models of autism to help them understand factors linked to increased risk and to be able to explore potential therapeutic support. These models are developed from selectively bred, laboratory-housed animals and might not fully represent typical population diversity. However, they are still valuable in helping us understand the biological basis of neurodiversity.

For example, some beagle dogs have a mutation in a gene called Shank3, which is linked with autism in humans and often characterised by difficulties in social interactions. Beagles with the Shank3 mutation also exhibit low desire to interact with people. It turns out that they have reduced cell to cell signalling in regions of the brain linked with attention.

They also demonstrate less of what is known as neural coupling with people. Neural coupling is where the brain activity of two or more individuals aligns when interacting. It typically occurs when people are storytelling or teaching, but a 2024 study also found it happens when dogs and humans gaze into each other’s eyes.

The Shank3 mutation might therefore result in impaired neural processing and signalling, limiting spontaneous social interactions and bonding between dogs and people. However, multiple factors are involved in the development of brain and behaviour.

Puppies who have had limited or negative early experiences with people might become less social and people-oriented. It is not easy to identify if the cause of this behaviour is biological, environmental or a combination of the two.

Shank3 canine research has also provided a hint at potential supportive medical interventions for human autism. A single dose of the psychedelic drug LSD was given to dogs with the Shank3 mutation. This resulted in increased attention and enhanced neural coupling with people over five days.