r/science • u/mvea Professor | Medicine • Feb 08 '25

Neuroscience Specific neurons that secrete oxytocin in the brain are disrupted in a mouse model of autism, neuroscientists have found. Stimulating these neurons restored social behaviors in these mice. These findings could help to develop new ways to treat autism.

https://www.riken.jp/en/news_pubs/research_news/rr/20250207_1/index.html
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u/2legittoquit Feb 08 '25

Using a mouse model for social behaviors seems weird.  Mice aren’t very social, and we have rats which are extremely social.

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u/nopefruit Feb 08 '25

"Mice are gregarious and social animals who form a complex organisation within their group and find isolation incredibly stressful. Removing even one individual can cause upset that affects the welfare of the whole colony."

Humane Society International

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u/2legittoquit Feb 08 '25

Maybe I’m misinformed then.  I thought male mice were pretty territorial and were solitary.

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u/R0da Feb 08 '25

Male mice are very territorial and are often kept solitary, but thats because the other options are get them neutered and let them live with a female colony (expensive and risky for most), don't neuter them and let them live with a female colony (infinite mouse hack), or let them hang out with their bros and have them kill eachother (sad).

Females on the other hand are always kept in colonies.

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u/Ralphie5231 Feb 08 '25

No nice are so intelligent and so social that only owning one would be animal abuse to some people. You always want at least 2 so they don't get lonely.

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u/Omnilus Feb 08 '25

Hamsters are much more territorial and solitary. Maybe that's what you're thinking of?