Immune system dysfunction and inflammation in aging Shank3b mutant mice, a model of autism spectrum disorder

Our findings revealed genotype- and age-related differences in inflammation and motor behavior, with Shank3b^-/- mice exhibiting accelerated aging and motor impairments. Correlations between pro-inflammatory molecules and behavioral deficits suggest that a link may be present between systemic inflammation and ASD-related behaviors, underscoring the potential role of age-related inflammation ("inflammaging") in exacerbating ASD symptoms.