Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Guthrie, Kathleen

Abstract

The causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are not all known, but it is suspected that the serotonin transporter (SERT) plays an important role for some subjects with ASD. Mutations in the SLC6A4 gene, that encodes SERT, including the Ala56 mutation (Gly56Ala), have been found in some autism patients. This mutation makes the transporter more active and reduces the probability of serotonergic neurotransmission in the brain, which is linked to behavioral changes that are associated with core domain deficits of ASD 1. Depression also has been linked to decreases in the availability of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) in the central nervous system (CNS), and is associated with reduced hippocampal neurogenesis. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), drugs used to block SERTs, are used to treat depression and/or anxiety by inhibiting SERT to increase synaptic 5-HT levels.

Extent

78 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2019.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00013297

Format

pdf

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