Abstract
Repetitive behavior is characterized as repetitive actions with no purpose, which is a common feature in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). What we are trying to see is if environmental interventions can reduce repetitive behaviors, such as spinning, in mice. In prior studies in mice, a ketogenic diet (KD) successfully decreased repetitive behaviors. One hypothesis is that the reduced spinning is due to the KD being an anti-inflammatory. Neuroinflammation, which refers to inflammation in the central nervous system, may offer a link between diet and ASD and other disorders. In a convergent approach, this study uses another known anti-inflammatory, Thymoquinone (TQ), the main component of black seed oil, to try to reduce repetitive behaviors. If our hypothesis is correct and TQ reduces repetitive behaviors, it will provide insight into novel therapeutic remedies for conditions exaggerated by neuroinflammation, such as repetitive behaviors in ASD.
Recommended Citation
Biondi, Ashley
(2026)
"The Role of Black Seed Oil (Thymoquinone) on Repetitive Behavior and Neuroinflammation in Spinning Mice,"
Proceedings of GREAT Day: Vol. 17, Article 11.
Available at:
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/proceedings-of-great-day/vol17/iss1/11