Neuregulin 1 in autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication, behavior, and learning. Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) is a potential candidate gene in the etiology of ASD. NRG1 has been found to be dysregulated in ASD and may, in part, play a role in cognitive challenges observed in ASD patients. The paper summarizes the role of NRG1 in the context of ASD and its relation to ErbB receptors. The purpose of this paper is to highlight gaps in the existing literature, where future research can improve our understanding. Dysregulation of NRG1 has been observed in the blood of ASD patients and brain such as in the frontal and temporal cortex. This may explain anatomical differences such as changes in neuronal cell numbers in the cerebellum and prefrontal cortex in the ASD brain and some behaviors commonly observed in ASD patients. Altered levels of ErbB receptors have been measured in ASD patients. Of particular interest is ErbB2 receptor tyrosine kinase 4 (ErbB4), which is the primary receptor for NRG1. NRG1 and ErbB receptors both regulate neurotransmitter release and receptor function. Therefore, disruptions in NRG1 signaling may lead to imbalances in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, a common feature observed in autism. This paper focuses on GABA signaling as NRG1 plays a major role in the development and function of GABAergic neurons. NRG1 signaling pathway could be targeted in future therapeutic interventions for not only ASD but also other neurodevelopmental disorders.