Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure concern methods and compositions related to manipulation of the microbiome in an individual having at least one social behavior deficit. In particular embodiments, an individual has at least one social behavior deficit and was born from a mother who during pregnancy was obese, overweight, or on a high-fat diet during pregnancy or carries mutations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. In specific embodiments, the individual having at least one social behavior deficit is provided an effective amount of Lactobacillus reuteri for the improvement of at least one symptom of a social behavior deficit.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure concern methods and compositions related to manipulation of the microbiome in an individual having at least one social behavior deficit. In particular embodiments, an individual has at least one social behavior deficit and was born from a mother who during pregnancy was obese, overweight, or on a high-fat diet during pregnancy or carries mutations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. In specific embodiments, the individual having at least one social behavior deficit is provided an effective amount of Lactobacillus reuteri for the improvement of at least one symptom of a social behavior deficit.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure concern methods and compositions related to manipulation of the microbiome in an individual having at least one social behavior deficit. In particular embodiments, an individual has at least one social behavior deficit and was born from a mother who during pregnancy was obese, overweight, or on a high-fat diet during pregnancy or carries mutations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. In specific embodiments, the individual having at least one social behavior deficit is provided an effective amount of Lactobacillus reuteri for the improvement of at least one symptom of a social behavior deficit.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods and compositions regarding suppression of double stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) to enhance cognition in an individual. In specific cases, an inhibitor of PKR is provided to the individual such that cognition is enhanced thereby, including by enhancing memory, for example. Kits are encompassed in certain embodiments.