Oxytocin Receptor Expression in Hair Follicle Stem Cells of Valproic Acid-Induced Rat Model of Autism: Insights for Autism Spectrum Disorder

This study investigates the expression of oxytocin receptors (OXTR) in hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) using a valproic acid-induced rat model of autism. The research found significant differences in the migration of HFSCs and OXTR expression between control and autistic groups, with a notable decrease in migrated stem cells and OXTR expression in male autistic rats compared to controls. These results suggest a dysregulation in the oxytocinergic system, highlighting the potential of OXTR expression in HFSCs as a biomarker for autism spectrum disorders. The study also indicates that males may be more susceptible to autism-related brain disturbances, emphasizing the need to consider gender differences in autism research and treatment.