Transcriptome profile analysis of genes by RNA-sequencing in neonatal maternal separation rats with autistic-like behaviors

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by repetitive behaviors and difficulties in social interaction and communication. The pathogenesis of ASD remains poorly understood, and no definitive treatment is currently available. This study aimed to systematically identify key genes and signaling pathways involved in autistic-like behaviors by performing genome-wide transcriptional profiling on a neonatal maternal separation (NMS) rat model, thereby revealing the underlying molecular mechanisms.