Ca 21 -dependent activator protein for secretion 2 (CAPS2) regulates dense-core vesicle (DCV) exocytosis to facilitate peptidergic and catecholaminergic transmitter release. CAPS2 deficiency in mice has mild neuronal effects but markedly impairs social behavior. Rare de novo Caps2 alterations also occur in autism spectrum disorder, although whether CAPS2-mediated release influences social behavior remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that CAPS2 is associated with DCV exocytosis-mediated release of the social interaction modulatory peptide oxytocin (OXT). CAPS2 is expressed in hypothalamic OXT neurons and localizes to OXT nerve projection and OXT release sites, such as the pituitary. Caps2 KO mice exhibited reduced plasma albeit increased hypothalamic and pituitary OXT levels, indicating insufficient release. OXT neuron-specific Caps2 conditional KO supported CAPS2 function in pituitary OXT release, also affording impaired social interaction and recognition behavior that could be ameliorated by exogenous OXT administered intranasally. Thus, CAPS2 appears critical for OXT release, thereby being associated with social behavior.
This study demonstrated that BMI provides useful information for the identification of potential risk for hyperkalaemia associated with ACEI and ARB treatments.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by disturbances in interpersonal relationships and behavior. Although the prevalence of autism is high, effective treatments have not yet been identified. Recently, genome-wide association studies have identified many mutations or variations associated with ASD risk on many chromosome loci and genes. Identification of the biological roles of these mutations or variations is necessary to identify the mechanisms underlying ASD pathogenesis and to develop clinical treatments. At present, mice harboring genetic modifications of ASD-associated gene candidates are the best animal models to analyze hereditary factors involved in autism. In this report, the biological significance of ASD-associated genes is discussed by examining the phenotypes of mouse models with ASD-associated mutations or variations in mouse homologs, with a focus on mice harboring genetic modifications of the Caps2/Cadps2 (Ca2+-dependent activator protein for secretion 2) gene.
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