Reduced effect of stimulation of AMPA receptors on cerebral O2 consumption in a rat model of autism

► Eker rats (tuberous sclerosis-autism model) have elevated cerebral metabolism. ► This is not related to high basal AMPA receptor activity. ► We tested whether AMPA would increase cerebral O2 consumption in Eker rats. ► AMPA increased cortical O2 consumption in controls, but not in Eker rats. ► This was correlated with reduced AMPA receptor protein levels in the Eker rat.