Shahed University Journal of Basic and Clinical Pathophysiology 2322-1895 13 1 2025 02 25 Low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation mitigates working memory deficit and cortical malondialdehyde besides preservation of dendritic spines in valproic acid-induced model of autism spectrum disorder 1 7 4714 10.22070/jbcp.2024.18459.1176 EN Masoud Afshari Department of Cognitive Psychology, Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran Mehrdad Roghani Neurophysiology Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran Hamidreza Pouretemad Department of Cognitive Psychology, Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran Shahriar Gharibzadeh Department of Cognitive Psychology, Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran Journal Article 2023 11 18 <strong>Background and Objective:</strong> Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by behavioral dysfunctions, including repetitive behaviors and impaired social interactions. Previous research has identified working memory deficits in individuals with ASD, often associated with prefrontal cortex abnormalities. Valproic acid (VPA), a well-known antiepileptic drug, has been linked to negative effects on brain development and an increased risk of ASD. This study explored the potential therapeutic impact of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LF-rTMS) in mitigating oxidative stress and preserving neural structures in the context of ASD induced by prenatal exposure to VPA.<br /><strong>Materials and Methods:</strong> Our investigation examined the role of LF-rTMS, a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, in modulating working memory (Y-maze), oxidative stress, and protecting neural structures. Oxidative stress, measured by malondialdehyde (MDA) in the prefrontal cortex, serves as a critical marker for evaluating cellular damage. Dendritic spine density was assessed using the Golgi impregnation method as a marker for neural structure protection.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> Our data indicated that LF-rTMS treatment significantly improves working memory function, reduces MDA level, and increases dendritic spine density in the prefrontal cortex.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> In conclusion, our findings suggest that LF-rTMS holds promise as a neuroprotective intervention, showing potential in reducing oxidative stress and preserving neural structures in a VPA-induced ASD model. https://jbcp.shahed.ac.ir/article_4714_36e04095e91ac74fd546a794b20d227a.pdf