JOURNAL ARTICLE

Researchers from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University Report New Studies and Findings in the Area of Autism Spectrum Disorders (Preliminary Data Regarding the Potential of Oxytocin to Modulate Aggressive Behaviour in a VPA-Based Animal Model of...).

Published In: Mental Health Weekly Digest, 2026. P. 5507 1 of 2
Database: Psychology Source 2 of 2

Abstract

This article focuses on research from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University in Iasi, Romania, investigating the potential of oxytocin (OT), a neuropeptide involved in social bonding, to modulate aggressive behavior in an animal model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Using a valproic acid (VPA)-based zebrafish model, the study compared the effects of OT and risperidone (RIS), an atypical antipsychotic, on aggression and anxiety-like behaviors, finding that OT showed comparable potential to RIS in reducing these behaviors. The research highlights OT as a promising adjunct to current pharmacological treatments for ASD-associated aggression but notes that further studies are needed to clarify its mechanisms and possible synergistic effects. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

Source:Mental Health Weekly Digest. 2026/03, p5507
Document Type:Article
Subject Area:Psychology
Publication Date:2026
ISSN:1543-6616
Accession Number:192121612
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