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Study Links Autism Gene Loss to Increased Fear Responses

6/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study from the Max Planck Florida Institute reveals that the loss of the autism-related gene PTEN in certain inhibitory neurons disrupts brain circuits tied to fear and anxiety. This alteration in the amygdala amplifies excitatory signals and diminishes local inhibition, resulting in increased anxiety and fear learning in animal models, while leaving social behaviors intact.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study from the Max Planck Florida Institute reveals that the loss of the autism-related gene PTEN in certain inhibitory neurons disrupts brain circuits tied to fear and anxiety. This alteration in the amygdala amplifies excitatory signals and diminishes local inhibition, resulting in increased anxiety and fear learning in animal models, while leaving social behaviors intact.