Exaggerated responses to stress in the BTBR T+tf/J mouse: an unusual behavioral phenotype.

This study shows that the BTBR T+tf/J mouse, a model for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has increased levels of the stress hormone corticosterone, when compared to C57BL/6J mice. In addition, we have shown that tail suspension of the BTBR produces a heightened anxiety response in the elevated plus maze. These results suggest that the BTBR mouse is stressor-reactive exhibiting hormone responses that might predispose it to ASD.