OXIDATIVE STRESS LINKED TO REPETITIVE BEHAVIORS IN MICE
Abnormal repetitive behaviors in mice are strongly linked to multiple biomarkers of oxidative stress, which occurs when antioxidants cannot counteract the effects of harmful molecules in the body, according to a study published November 5, 2025, in the open-access journal PLOS One by Kendall Coden and Dr. Joseph Garner of Stanford University, U.S. However, more research is needed to test whether antioxidants can prevent or treat these behaviors.
Stereotypies are abnormal, repetitive, and seemingly goal-less behaviors that are prevalent within the animal kingdom. They have been documented in nearly every captive mammal and bird species, including laboratory animals, zoo animals, and farm animals. In addition, they are a core feature of several human neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Despite well documented environmental risk factors associated with stereotypies in captive animals, the developmental origins of these behaviors remain elusive.
Past research suggests that several neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions are linked to REDOX imbalance -- a state in which physiological demand for antioxidants surpasses their bioavailability. Yet the relationship between REDOX imbalance and stereotypy has been unclear. To fill this knowledge gap, Coden, Garner and collaborators investigated whether REDOX imbalance is associated with the severity of stereotypies in mice. The researchers measured blood levels of the antioxidant glutathione -- a gold-standard biomarker of REDOX imbalance.
2025-11-06T02:48:18Z