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Devason AS, Thaiss CA, de la Fuente-Nunez C. Neuromicrobiology Comes of Age: The Multifaceted Interactions between the Microbiome and the Nervous System. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024. [PMID: 39102500 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen an explosion in our knowledge about the interactions between gut microbiota, the central nervous system, and the immune system. The gut-brain axis has recently gained much attention due to its role in regulating host physiology. This review explores recent findings concerning potential pathways linking the gut-brain axis to the initiation, pathophysiology, and development of neurological disorders. Our objective of this work is to uncover causative factors and pinpoint particular pathways and therapeutic targets that may facilitate the translation of experimental animal research into practical applications for human patients. We highlight three distinct yet interrelated mechanisms: (1) disruptions of both the intestinal and blood-brain barriers, (2) persistent neuroinflammation, and (3) the role of the vagus nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwarya S Devason
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for Immunology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for Obesity, Diabetes and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, Pennsylvania United States
| | - Christoph A Thaiss
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for Immunology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Institute for Obesity, Diabetes and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, Pennsylvania United States
| | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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2
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Zarimeidani F, Rahmati R, Mostafavi M, Darvishi M, Khodadadi S, Mohammadi M, Shamlou F, Bakhtiyari S, Alipourfard I. Gut Microbiota and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Neuroinflammatory Mediated Mechanism of Pathogenesis? Inflammation 2024:10.1007/s10753-024-02061-y. [PMID: 39093342 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-024-02061-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social communication and behavior, frequently accompanied by restricted and repetitive patterns of interests or activities. The gut microbiota has been implicated in the etiology of ASD due to its impact on the bidirectional communication pathway known as the gut-brain axis. However, the precise involvement of the gut microbiota in the causation of ASD is unclear. This study critically examines recent evidence to rationalize a probable mechanism in which gut microbiota symbiosis can induce neuroinflammation through intermediator cytokines and metabolites. To develop ASD, loss of the integrity of the intestinal barrier, activation of microglia, and dysregulation of neurotransmitters are caused by neural inflammatory factors. It has emphasized the potential role of neuroinflammatory intermediates linked to gut microbiota alterations in individuals with ASD. Specifically, cytokines like brain-derived neurotrophic factor, calprotectin, eotaxin, and some metabolites and microRNAs have been considered etiological biomarkers. We have also overviewed how probiotic trials may be used as a therapeutic strategy in ASD to reestablish a healthy balance in the gut microbiota. Evidence indicates neuroinflammation induced by dysregulated gut microbiota in ASD, yet there is little clarity based on analysis of the circulating immune profile. It deems the repair of microbiota load would lower inflammatory chaos in the GI tract, correct neuroinflammatory mediators, and modulate the neurotransmitters to attenuate autism. The interaction between the gut and the brain, along with alterations in microbiota and neuroinflammatory biomarkers, serves as a foundational background for understanding the etiology, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Zarimeidani
- Students Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Rahem Rahmati
- Students Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Mostafavi
- Faculty of Allied Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Darvishi
- School of Aerospace and Subaquatic Medicine, Infectious Diseases & Tropical Medicine Research Center (IDTMC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Khodadadi
- Student Research Committee, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahya Mohammadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Shamlou
- School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Salar Bakhtiyari
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, North Western University, Chicago. Illinois, USA
| | - Iraj Alipourfard
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Marcin Kasprzaka 44/52, 01-224, Warsaw, Poland.
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3
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Yuan X, Chai J, Xu W, Zhao Y. Exploring the Potential of Probiotics and Prebiotics in Major Depression: From Molecular Function to Clinical Therapy. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2024:10.1007/s12602-024-10326-z. [PMID: 39078446 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-024-10326-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) represents a complex and challenging mental health condition with multifaceted etiology. Recent research exploring the gut-brain axis has shed light on the potential influence of gut microbiota on mental health, offering novel avenues for therapeutic intervention. This paper reviews current evidence on the role of prebiotics and probiotics in the context of MDD treatment. Clinical studies assessing the effects of prebiotic and probiotic interventions have demonstrated promising results, showcasing improvements in depression symptoms and metabolic parameters in certain populations. Notably, prebiotics and probiotics have shown the capacity to modulate inflammatory markers, cortisol levels, and neurotransmitter pathways linked to MDD. However, existing research presents varied outcomes, underscoring the need for further investigation into specific microbial strains, dosage optimization, and long-term effects. Future research should aim at refining personalized interventions, elucidating mechanisms of action, and establishing standardized protocols to integrate these interventions into clinical practice. While prebiotics and probiotics offer potential adjunctive therapies for MDD, continued interdisciplinary efforts are vital to harnessing their full therapeutic potential and reshaping the landscape of depression treatment paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yuan
- Graduate School of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Jianbo Chai
- Heilongjiang Mental Hospital, Harbin, 150036, China
| | - Wenqiang Xu
- Harbin Jiarun Hospital, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Yonghou Zhao
- Heilongjiang Mental Hospital, Harbin, 150036, China.
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Singh J, Vanlallawmzuali, Singh A, Biswal S, Zomuansangi R, Lalbiaktluangi C, Singh BP, Singh PK, Vellingiri B, Iyer M, Ram H, Udey B, Yadav MK. Microbiota-brain axis: Exploring the role of gut microbiota in psychiatric disorders - A comprehensive review. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 97:104068. [PMID: 38776563 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Mental illness is a hidden epidemic in modern science that has gradually spread worldwide. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10% of the world's population suffers from various mental diseases each year. Worldwide, financial and health burdens on society are increasing annually. Therefore, understanding the different factors that can influence mental illness is required to formulate novel and effective treatments and interventions to combat mental illness. Gut microbiota, consisting of diverse microbial communities residing in the gastrointestinal tract, exert profound effects on the central nervous system through the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis serves as a conduit for bidirectional communication between the two systems, enabling the gut microbiota to affect emotional and cognitive functions. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiota, is associated with an increased susceptibility to mental health disorders and psychiatric illnesses. Gut microbiota is one of the most diverse and abundant groups of microbes that have been found to interact with the central nervous system and play important physiological functions in the human gut, thus greatly affecting the development of mental illnesses. The interaction between gut microbiota and mental health-related illnesses is a multifaceted and promising field of study. This review explores the mechanisms by which gut microbiota influences mental health, encompassing the modulation of neurotransmitter production, neuroinflammation, and integrity of the gut barrier. In addition, it emphasizes a thorough understanding of how the gut microbiome affects various psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawahar Singh
- Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Vanlallawmzuali
- Department of Biotechnology, Mizoram Central University, Pachhunga University College Campus, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | - Amit Singh
- Department of Microbiology Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Suryanarayan Biswal
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Ruth Zomuansangi
- Department of Microbiology Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - C Lalbiaktluangi
- Department of Microbiology Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Bhim Pratap Singh
- Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (AES), National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Sonepat, Haryana, India
| | - Prashant Kumar Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Pachhunga University College Campus, Mizoram University (A Central University), Aizawl 796001, Mizoram, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Stem cell and Regenerative Medicine/Translational Research, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab (CUPB), Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Department of Microbiology Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Heera Ram
- Department of Zoology, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001, India
| | - Bharat Udey
- Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Microbiology Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, India.
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De Sales-Millán A, Reyes-Ferreira P, Aguirre-Garrido JF, Corral-Guillé I, Barrientos-Ríos R, Velázquez-Aragón JA. Comprehensive Analysis of Gut Microbiota Composition and Functional Metabolism in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurotypical Children: Implications for Sex-Based Differences and Metabolic Dysregulation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6701. [PMID: 38928411 PMCID: PMC11203636 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the gut microbiota composition in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to neurotypical (NT) children, with a focus on identifying potential differences in gut bacteria between these groups. The microbiota was analyzed through the massive sequencing of region V3-V4 of the 16S RNA gene, utilizing DNA extracted from stool samples of participants. Our findings revealed no significant differences in the dominant bacterial phyla (Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobiota) between the ASD and NT groups. However, at the genus level, notable disparities were observed in the abundance of Blautia, Prevotella, Clostridium XI, and Clostridium XVIII, all of which have been previously associated with ASD. Furthermore, a sex-based analysis unveiled additional discrepancies in gut microbiota composition. Specifically, three genera (Megamonas, Oscilibacter, Acidaminococcus) exhibited variations between male and female groups in both ASD and NT cohorts. Particularly noteworthy was the exclusive presence of Megamonas in females with ASD. Analysis of predicted metabolic pathways suggested an enrichment of pathways related to amine and polyamine degradation, as well as amino acid degradation in the ASD group. Conversely, pathways implicated in carbohydrate biosynthesis, degradation, and fermentation were found to be underrepresented. Despite the limitations of our study, including a relatively small sample size (30 ASD and 31 NT children) and the utilization of predicted metabolic pathways derived from 16S RNA gene analysis rather than metagenome sequencing, our findings contribute to the growing body of evidence suggesting a potential association between gut microbiota composition and ASD. Future research endeavors should focus on validating these findings with larger sample sizes and exploring the functional significance of these microbial differences in ASD. Additionally, there is a critical need for further investigations to elucidate sex differences in gut microbiota composition and their potential implications for ASD pathology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amapola De Sales-Millán
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Ciudad de México 09340, Mexico;
| | - Paulina Reyes-Ferreira
- Departamento de Salud Mental, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico;
| | - José Félix Aguirre-Garrido
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico;
| | - Ismene Corral-Guillé
- Centro de Investigación del Neurodesarrollo, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico;
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Li Y, Xiao P, Cao R, Le J, Xu Q, Xiao F, Ye L, Wang X, Wang Y, Zhang T. Effects and microbiota changes following oral lyophilized fecal microbiota transplantation in children with autism spectrum disorder. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1369823. [PMID: 38783921 PMCID: PMC11112010 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1369823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders that is characterized by core features in social communication impairment and restricted, repetitive sensory-motor behaviors. This study aimed to further investigate the utilization of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in children with ASD, both with and without gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, evaluate the effect of FMT and analyze the alterations in bacterial and fungal composition within the gut microbiota. Methods A total of 38 children diagnosed with ASD participated in the study and underwent oral lyophilized FMT treatment. The dosage of the FMT treatment was determined based on a ratio of 1 g of donor stool per 1 kg of recipient body weight, with a frequency of once every 4 weeks for a total of 12 weeks. In addition, 30 healthy controls (HC) were included in the analysis. The clinical efficacy of FMT was evaluated, while the composition of fecal bacteria and fungi was determined using 16S rRNA and ITS gene sequencing methods. Results Median age of the 38 children with ASD was 7 years. Among these children, 84.2% (32 of 38) were boys and 81.6% (31 of 38) exhibited GI symptoms, with indigestion, constipation and diarrhea being the most common symptoms. Sample collections and assessments were conducted at baseline (week 0), post-treatment (week 12) and follow-up (week 20). At the end of the follow-up phase after FMT treatment, the autism behavior checklist (ABC) scores decreased by 23% from baseline, and there was a 10% reduction in scores on the childhood autism rating scale (CARS), a 6% reduction in scores on the social responsiveness scale (SRS) and a 10% reduction in scores on the sleep disturbance scale for children (SDSC). In addition, short-term adverse events observed included vomiting and fever in 2 participants, which were self-limiting and resolved within 24 h, and no long-term adverse events were observed. Although there was no significant difference in alpha and beta diversity in children with ASD before and after FMT therapy, the FMT treatment resulted in alterations in the relative abundances of various bacterial and fungal genera in the samples of ASD patients. Comparisons between children with ASD and healthy controls (HC) revealed statistically significant differences in microbial abundance before and after FMT. Blautia, Sellimonas, Saccharomycopsis and Cystobasidium were more abundant in children with ASD than in HC, while Dorea were less abundant. After FMT treatment, levels of Blautia, Sellimonas, Saccharomycopsis and Cystobasidium decreased, while levels of Dorea increased. Moreover, the increased abundances of Fusicatenibacter, Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG-003, Saccharomyces, Rhodotorula, Cutaneotrichosporon and Zygosaccharomyces were negatively correlated with the scores of ASD core symptoms. Conclusions Oral lyophilized FMT could improve GI and ASD related symptoms, as well as sleep disturbances, and alter the gut bacterial and fungal microbiota composition in children with ASD. Clinical Trial Registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2200055943. Registered 28 January 2022, www.chictr.org.cn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youran Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pei Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Le
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiao Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangfei Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xufei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yizhong Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Pediatric Infection, Immunity and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Pediatric Infection, Immunity and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Feng P, Zhang Y, Zhao Y, Zhao P, Li E. Combined repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and gut microbiota modulation through the gut-brain axis for prevention and treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341404. [PMID: 38455067 PMCID: PMC10918007 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a range of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by enduring impairments in social communication and interaction together with restricted repetitive behaviors, interests, and activities. No targeted pharmacological or physical interventions are currently available for ASD. However, emerging evidence has indicated a potential association between the development of ASD and dysregulation of the gut-brain axis. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a noninvasive diagnostic and therapeutic approach, has demonstrated positive outcomes in diverse psychiatric disorders; however, its efficacy in treating ASD and its accompanying gastrointestinal effects, particularly the effects on the gut-brain axis, remain unclear. Hence, this review aimed to thoroughly examine the existing research on the application of rTMS in the treatment of ASD. Additionally, the review explored the interplay between rTMS and the gut microbiota in children with ASD, focusing on the gut-brain axis. Furthermore, the review delved into the integration of rTMS and gut microbiota modulation as a targeted approach for ASD treatment based on recent literature. This review emphasizes the potential synergistic effects of rTMS and gut microbiota interventions, describes the underlying mechanisms, and proposes a potential therapeutic strategy for specific subsets of individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengya Feng
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- The American Psychiatric Association, Key Laboratory of Helicobacter pylori, Microbiota and Gastrointestinal Cancer of Henan Province, Marshall Medical Research Center, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Zhang
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yonghong Zhao
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Pengju Zhao
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Enyao Li
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Hediyal TA, Vichitra C, Anand N, Bhaskaran M, Essa SM, Kumar P, Qoronfleh MW, Akbar M, Kaul-Ghanekar R, Mahalakshmi AM, Yang J, Song BJ, Monaghan TM, Sakharkar MK, Chidambaram SB. Protective effects of fecal microbiota transplantation against ischemic stroke and other neurological disorders: an update. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1324018. [PMID: 38449863 PMCID: PMC10915229 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1324018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The bidirectional communication between the gut and brain or gut-brain axis is regulated by several gut microbes and microbial derived metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, trimethylamine N-oxide, and lipopolysaccharides. The Gut microbiota (GM) produce neuroactives, specifically neurotransmitters that modulates local and central neuronal brain functions. An imbalance between intestinal commensals and pathobionts leads to a disruption in the gut microbiota or dysbiosis, which affects intestinal barrier integrity and gut-immune and neuroimmune systems. Currently, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is recommended for the treatment of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. FMT elicits its action by ameliorating inflammatory responses through the restoration of microbial composition and functionality. Thus, FMT may be a potential therapeutic option in suppressing neuroinflammation in post-stroke conditions and other neurological disorders involving the neuroimmune axis. Specifically, FMT protects against ischemic injury by decreasing IL-17, IFN-γ, Bax, and increasing Bcl-2 expression. Interestingly, FMT improves cognitive function by lowering amyloid-β accumulation and upregulating synaptic marker (PSD-95, synapsin-1) expression in Alzheimer's disease. In Parkinson's disease, FMT was shown to inhibit the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB. In this review article, we have summarized the potential sources and methods of administration of FMT and its impact on neuroimmune and cognitive functions. We also provide a comprehensive update on the beneficial effects of FMT in various neurological disorders by undertaking a detailed interrogation of the preclinical and clinical published literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tousif Ahmed Hediyal
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
| | - C. Vichitra
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
| | - Nikhilesh Anand
- Department of Pharmacology, American University of Antigua, College of Medicine, Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda
| | - Mahendran Bhaskaran
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Frederic and Mary Wolf Centre University of Toledo, Health Science, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Saeefh M. Essa
- Department of Computer Science, Northwest High School, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Pravir Kumar
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University (Formerly DCE), Delhi, India
| | - M. Walid Qoronfleh
- Q3CG Research Institute (QRI), Research and Policy Division, Ypsilanti, MI, United States
| | - Mohammed Akbar
- Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ruchika Kaul-Ghanekar
- Symbiosis Centre for Research and Innovation (SCRI), Cancer Research Lab, Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences (SSBS), Symbiosis International University (SIU), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Arehally M. Mahalakshmi
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
| | - Jian Yang
- Drug Discovery and Development Research Group, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Byoung-Joon Song
- Section of Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Bio-physics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Tanya M. Monaghan
- National Institute for Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Meena Kishore Sakharkar
- Drug Discovery and Development Research Group, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Saravana Babu Chidambaram
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, KA, India
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Suprunowicz M, Tomaszek N, Urbaniak A, Zackiewicz K, Modzelewski S, Waszkiewicz N. Between Dysbiosis, Maternal Immune Activation and Autism: Is There a Common Pathway? Nutrients 2024; 16:549. [PMID: 38398873 PMCID: PMC10891846 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neuropsychiatric condition characterized by impaired social interactions and repetitive stereotyped behaviors. Growing evidence highlights an important role of the gut-brain-microbiome axis in the pathogenesis of ASD. Research indicates an abnormal composition of the gut microbiome and the potential involvement of bacterial molecules in neuroinflammation and brain development disruptions. Concurrently, attention is directed towards the role of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and impaired intestinal tightness. This comprehensive review emphasizes the potential impact of maternal gut microbiota changes on the development of autism in children, especially considering maternal immune activation (MIA). The following paper evaluates the impact of the birth route on the colonization of the child with bacteria in the first weeks of life. Furthermore, it explores the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and IL-17a and mother's obesity as potentially environmental factors of ASD. The purpose of this review is to advance our understanding of ASD pathogenesis, while also searching for the positive implications of the latest therapies, such as probiotics, prebiotics or fecal microbiota transplantation, targeting the gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. This review aims to provide valuable insights that could instruct future studies and treatments for individuals affected by ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Modzelewski
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Bialystok, pl. Wołodyjowskiego 2, 15-272 Białystok, Poland; (M.S.); (N.T.); (A.U.); (K.Z.); (N.W.)
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Ross FC, Mayer DE, Gupta A, Gill CIR, Del Rio D, Cryan JF, Lavelle A, Ross RP, Stanton C, Mayer EA. Existing and Future Strategies to Manipulate the Gut Microbiota With Diet as a Potential Adjuvant Treatment for Psychiatric Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:348-360. [PMID: 37918459 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Nutrition and diet quality play key roles in preventing and slowing cognitive decline and have been linked to multiple brain disorders. This review compiles available evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials on the impact of nutrition and interventions regarding major psychiatric conditions and some neurological disorders. We emphasize the potential role of diet-related microbiome alterations in these effects and highlight commonalities between various brain disorders related to the microbiome. Despite numerous studies shedding light on these findings, there are still gaps in our understanding due to the limited availability of definitive human trial data firmly establishing a causal link between a specific diet and microbially mediated brain functions and symptoms. The positive impact of certain diets on the microbiome and cognitive function is frequently ascribed with the anti-inflammatory effects of certain microbial metabolites or a reduction of proinflammatory microbial products. We also critically review recent research on pro- and prebiotics and nondietary interventions, particularly fecal microbiota transplantation. The recent focus on diet in relation to brain disorders could lead to improved treatment outcomes with combined dietary, pharmacological, and behavioral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona C Ross
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Dylan E Mayer
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Arpana Gupta
- Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center, G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, UCLA Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Chris I R Gill
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health, Ulster University, Coleraine, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Del Rio
- Department of Food and Drugs, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - John F Cryan
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Aonghus Lavelle
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - R Paul Ross
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Catherine Stanton
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Teagasc Moorepark Food Research Centre, Fermoy, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Emeran A Mayer
- Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center, G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, UCLA Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
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11
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Mathew NE, McCaffrey D, Walker AK, Mallitt KA, Masi A, Morris MJ, Ooi CY. The search for gastrointestinal inflammation in autism: a systematic review and meta-analysis of non-invasive gastrointestinal markers. Mol Autism 2024; 15:4. [PMID: 38233886 PMCID: PMC10795298 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00575-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases exist at higher rates in the autistic population. It is not clear however whether autism is associated with elevated gastrointestinal inflammation as studies examining non-invasive faecal biomarkers report conflicting findings. To understand the research landscape and identify gaps, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies measuring non-invasive markers of gastrointestinal inflammation in autistic and non-autistic samples. Our examination focused on faecal biomarkers as sampling is non-invasive and these markers are a direct reflection of inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract. METHODS We extracted data from case-control studies examining faecal markers of gastrointestinal inflammation. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection and Epistemonikos and forward and backwards citations of included studies published up to April 14, 2023 (PROSPERO CRD42022369279). RESULTS There were few studies examining faecal markers of gastrointestinal inflammation in the autistic population, and many established markers have not been studied. Meta-analyses of studies examining calprotectin (n = 9) and lactoferrin (n = 3) were carried out. A total of 508 autistic children and adolescents and 397 non-autistic children and adolescents were included in the meta-analysis of calprotectin studies which found no significant group differences (ROM: 1.30 [0.91, 1.86]). Estimated differences in calprotectin were lower in studies with siblings and studies which did not exclude non-autistic controls with gastrointestinal symptoms. A total of 139 autistic participants and 75 non-autistic controls were included in the meta-analysis of lactoferrin studies which found no significant group differences (ROM: 1.27 [0.79, 2.04]). LIMITATIONS All studies included in this systematic review and meta-analysis examined children and adolescents. Many studies included non-autistic controls with gastrointestinal symptoms which limit the validity of their findings. The majority of studies of gastrointestinal inflammation focused on children under 12 with few studies including adolescent participants. Most studies that included participants aged four or under did not account for the impact of age on calprotectin levels. Future studies should screen for relevant confounders, include larger samples and explore gastrointestinal inflammation in autistic adolescents and adults. CONCLUSIONS There is no evidence to suggest higher levels of gastrointestinal inflammation as measured by calprotectin and lactoferrin are present in autistic children and adolescents at the population level. Preliminary evidence suggests however that higher calprotectin levels may be present in a subset of autistic participants, who may be clinically characterised by more severe gastrointestinal symptoms and higher levels of autistic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha E Mathew
- School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
- Laboratory of ImmunoPsychiatry, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Delyse McCaffrey
- Laboratory of ImmunoPsychiatry, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Adam K Walker
- Laboratory of ImmunoPsychiatry, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Kylie-Ann Mallitt
- School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Anne Masi
- School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Margaret J Morris
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Chee Y Ooi
- School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, UNSW Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sydney Children's Hospital, High Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia.
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12
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Bransfield RC, Mao C, Greenberg R. Microbes and Mental Illness: Past, Present, and Future. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 12:83. [PMID: 38200989 PMCID: PMC10779437 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A review of the association between microbes and mental illness is performed, including the history, relevant definitions, infectious agents associated with mental illnesses, complex interactive infections, total load theory, pathophysiology, psychoimmunology, psychoneuroimmunology, clinical presentations, early-life infections, clinical assessment, and treatment. Perspectives on the etiology of mental illness have evolved from demonic possession toward multisystem biologically based models that include gene expression, environmental triggers, immune mediators, and infectious diseases. Microbes are associated with a number of mental disorders, including autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders, as well as suicidality and aggressive or violent behaviors. Specific microbes that have been associated or potentially associated with at least one of these conditions include Aspergillus, Babesia, Bartonella, Borna disease virus, Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Candida, Chlamydia, coronaviruses (e.g., SARS-CoV-2), Cryptococcus neoformans, cytomegalovirus, enteroviruses, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C, herpes simplex virus, human endogenous retroviruses, human immunodeficiency virus, human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6), human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1, influenza viruses, measles virus, Mycoplasma, Plasmodium, rubella virus, Group A Streptococcus (PANDAS), Taenia solium, Toxoplasma gondii, Treponema pallidum (syphilis), Trypanosoma, and West Nile virus. Recognition of the microbe and mental illness association with the development of greater interdisciplinary research, education, and treatment options may prevent and reduce mental illness morbidity, disability, and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C. Bransfield
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutey, NJ 07110, USA
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13
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Önal S, Sachadyn-Król M, Kostecka M. A Review of the Nutritional Approach and the Role of Dietary Components in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Light of the Latest Scientific Research. Nutrients 2023; 15:4852. [PMID: 38068711 PMCID: PMC10708497 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects several areas of mental development. The onset of ASD occurs in the first few years of life, usually before the age of 3 years. Proper nutrition is important to ensure that an individual's nutrient and energy requirements are met, and it can also have a moderating effect on the progression of the disorder. A systematic database search was conducted as a narrative review to determine whether nutrition and specific diets can potentially alter gastrointestinal symptoms and neurobehavioral disorders. Databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Google Scholar were searched to find studies published between 2000 and September 2023 on the relationship between ASD, dietary approaches, and the role of dietary components. The review may indicate that despite extensive research into dietary interventions, there is a general lack of conclusive scientific data about the effect of therapeutic diets on ASD; therefore, no definitive recommendation can be made for any specific nutritional therapy as a standard treatment for ASD. An individualized dietary approach and the dietician's role in the therapeutic team are very important elements of every therapy. Parents and caregivers should work with nutrition specialists, such as registered dietitians or healthcare providers, to design meal plans for autistic individuals, especially those who would like to implement an elimination diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Önal
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Health Sciences Institute, Ankara University, 06110 Ankara, Turkey;
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Fırat University, 23200 Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Monika Sachadyn-Król
- Faculty of Food Science and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Kostecka
- Faculty of Food Science and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
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14
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Mazandarani M, Lashkarbolouk N, Ejtahed HS, Qorbani M. Does the ketogenic diet improve neurological disorders by influencing gut microbiota? A systematic review. Nutr J 2023; 22:61. [PMID: 37981693 PMCID: PMC10658738 DOI: 10.1186/s12937-023-00893-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the changes in gut microbiota (GM) induced by the Ketogenic Diets (KD) as a potential underlying mechanism in the improvement of neurological diseases. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted on three electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus until December 2022. The inclusion criteria were studies that described any changes in GM after consuming KD in neurological patients. Full text of studies such as clinical trials and cohorts were added. The quality assessment of cohort studies was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and for the clinical trials using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The search, screening, and data extraction were performed by two researchers independently. RESULTS Thirteen studies examining the effects of the KD on the GM in neurological patients were included. Studies have shown that KD improves clinical outcomes by reducing disease severity and recurrence rates. An increase in Proteobacteria phylum, Escherichia, Bacteroides, Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, Lachnospira, Agaricus, and Mrakia genera and a reduction in Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria phyla, Eubacterium, Cronobacter, Saccharomyces, Claviceps, Akkermansia and Dialister genera were reported after KD. Studies showed a reduction in concentrations of fecal short-chain fatty acids and branched-chain fatty acids and an increase in beta Hydroxybutyrate, trimethylamine N-oxide, and N-acetylserotonin levels after KD. CONCLUSION The KD prescribed in neurological patients has effectively altered the GM composition and GM-derived metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Mazandarani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Narges Lashkarbolouk
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Hanieh-Sadat Ejtahed
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mostafa Qorbani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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15
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Wang T, Chen B, Luo M, Xie L, Lu M, Lu X, Zhang S, Wei L, Zhou X, Yao B, Wang H, Xu D. Microbiota-indole 3-propionic acid-brain axis mediates abnormal synaptic pruning of hippocampal microglia and susceptibility to ASD in IUGR offspring. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:245. [PMID: 37932832 PMCID: PMC10629055 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01656-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been associated with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. RESULTS We found that the IUGR rat model induced by prenatal caffeine exposure (PCE) showed ASD-like symptoms, accompanied by altered gut microbiota and reduced production of indole 3-propionic acid (IPA), a microbiota-specific metabolite and a ligand of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). IUGR children also had a reduced serum IPA level consistent with the animal model. We demonstrated that the dysregulated IPA/AHR/NF-κB signaling caused by disturbed gut microbiota mediated the hippocampal microglia hyperactivation and neuronal synapse over-pruning in the PCE-induced IUGR rats. Moreover, postnatal IPA supplementation restored the ASD-like symptoms and the underlying hippocampal lesions in the IUGR rats. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the microbiota-IPA-brain axis regulates ASD susceptibility in PCE-induced IUGR offspring, and supplementation of microbiota-derived IPA might be a promising interventional strategy for ASD with a fetal origin. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Beidi Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Mingcui Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lulu Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Mengxi Lu
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xiaoqian Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Liyi Wei
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xinli Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Baozhen Yao
- Department of Pediatrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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16
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Wightman E, Khan J, Smith E, Rolfe V, Smith D, Young G, Cheung W, Kennedy D. Chronic supplementation of a multi-ingredient herbal supplement increases speed of cognitive task performance alongside changes in the urinary metabolism of dopamine and the gut microbiome in cognitively intact older adults experiencing subjective memory decline: a randomized, placebo controlled, parallel groups investigation. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1257516. [PMID: 37885445 PMCID: PMC10598389 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1257516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The effects of herbs on brain function are often investigated in isolation, yet herbal preparations are often complex combinations of phytochemicals, designed to target widespread mechanisms. Objective To assess the effects of chronic, 12 weeks, supplementation of a multi-ingredient herbal supplement (containing Bacopa monnieri, Gotu kola leaf, Turmeric whole powder, Reishi full spectrum, Rosemary, Cardamom, Holy Basil, Turmeric Wholistic™ extract, Green Tea & Seagreens) on cognitive function in older adults with subjective memory decline. Secondly, to investigate whether effects are underpinned by shifts in microbial composition and/or metabolism of the herbs. Methods Male and female participants (N = 128) aged between 55-75 years completed lab-based cognitive assessments, and provided stool and urine samples, at baseline and then following 90 days of multi-ingredient herb, or placebo, supplementation. Results Deficits in memory were observed in response to 90 days of multi-ingredient herbal supplement supplementation but the positive effects were all focused on speed of cognitive task performance, with an additional improvement in the false alarm rate on the rapid visual information processing task. These improvements coincided with an increased presence of tyrosine in the urinary metabolome and this may implicate the role of dopamine in these processing and/or motor speed increases. Finally, multi-ingredient herbal supplementation significantly reduced levels of 3 bacterial species in the gut microbiome and one of these, Sutterella, coincides with lower levels of constipation reported in the multi-ingredient herbal supplement condition. Conclusion A multi-ingredient herbal supplement increases speed of cognitive task performance and increased metabolism of tyrosine suggests that this is modulated by increased dopaminergic activity. Reduced levels of Sutterella in the gut is associated with improved bowel movements of participants. Interpretation of the negative effects on memory are, however, stymied by an unequal randomization of participants into treatment groups pre- and post-COVID 19.Clinical trial registration: identifier NCT05504668.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Wightman
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Nutrition Trials at Northumbria (NUTRAN), Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Khan
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Ellen Smith
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Vivien Rolfe
- Pukka Herbs Ltd.,, The Chocolate Factory, Keynsham, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Darren Smith
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Nutrition Trials at Northumbria (NUTRAN), Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- NU-OMICS, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Greg Young
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Nutrition Trials at Northumbria (NUTRAN), Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- NU-OMICS, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - William Cheung
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - David Kennedy
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Nutrition Trials at Northumbria (NUTRAN), Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Matthews JS, Adams JB. Ratings of the Effectiveness of 13 Therapeutic Diets for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a National Survey. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1448. [PMID: 37888059 PMCID: PMC10608557 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13101448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study presents the results of the effectiveness of 13 therapeutic diets for autism spectrum disorder from 818 participants of a national survey, including benefits, adverse effects, and symptom improvements. The average Overall Benefit of diets was 2.36 (0 = no benefit, 4 = great benefit), which was substantially higher than for nutraceuticals (1.59/4.0) and psychiatric/seizure medications (1.39/4.0), p < 0.001. The average Overall Adverse Effects of diets was significantly lower than psychiatric/seizure medications (0.10 vs. 0.93, p < 0.001) and similar to nutraceuticals (0.16). Autism severity decreased slightly over time in participants who used diet vs. increasing slightly in those that did not (p < 0.001). Healthy and Feingold diets were the two top-rated diets by Overall Benefit; the ketogenic diet was the highest for nine symptoms (though had fewer respondents); and the gluten-free/casein-free diet was among the top for overall symptom improvements. Different diets were reported to affect different symptoms, suggesting that an individual's symptoms could be used to guide which diet(s) may be the most effective. The results suggest that therapeutic diets can be safe and effective interventions for improving some ASD-related symptoms with few adverse effects. We recommend therapeutic diets that include healthy foods and exclude problematic foods. Therapeutic diets are inexpensive treatments that we recommend for consideration by most people with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie S. Matthews
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA;
| | - James B. Adams
- School of Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
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18
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de la Rubia Ortí JE, Moneti C, Serrano-Ballesteros P, Castellano G, Bayona-Babiloni R, Carriquí-Suárez AB, Motos-Muñoz M, Proaño B, Benlloch M. Liposomal Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate for the Treatment of Intestinal Dysbiosis in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3265. [PMID: 37513683 PMCID: PMC10383799 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by varying degrees of difficulty in social interaction and communication. These deficits are often associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, indicating alterations in both intestinal microbiota composition and metabolic activities. The intestinal microbiota influences the function and development of the nervous system. In individuals with ASD, there is an increase in bacterial genera such as Clostridium, as well as species involved in the synthesis of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) like Prevotella copri. Conversely, decreased amounts of Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium spp. are observed. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is one of the polyphenols with the greatest beneficial activity on microbial growth, and its consumption is associated with reduced psychological distress. Therefore, the objective of this review is to analyze how EGCG and its metabolites can improve the microbial dysbiosis present in ASD and its impact on the pathology. The analysis reveals that EGCG inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria like Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium difficile. Moreover, it increases the abundance of Bifidobacterium spp. and Akkermansia spp. As a result, EGCG demonstrates efficacy in increasing the production of metabolites involved in maintaining epithelial integrity and improving brain function. This identifies EGCG as highly promising for complementary treatment in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Costanza Moneti
- Doctoral School, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Gloria Castellano
- Centro de Investigación Traslacional San Alberto Magno (CITSAM), Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
| | - Raquel Bayona-Babiloni
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Carriquí-Suárez
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Motos-Muñoz
- Department of Personality Psychology, Treatment and Methodology, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46100 Valencia, Spain
- Child Neurorehabilitation Unit, Manises Hospital, 46940 Valencia, Spain
| | - Belén Proaño
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Benlloch
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
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19
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Alam S, Westmark CJ, McCullagh EA. Diet in treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1031016. [PMID: 37492195 PMCID: PMC10364988 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1031016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Altering the diet to treat disease dates to c. 400 BC when starvation was used to reduce seizures in persons with epilepsy. The current diversity of symptomology and mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and a corresponding lack of disorder-specific effective treatments prompts an evaluation of diet as a therapeutic approach to improve symptoms of ASDs. In this review article, we summarize the main findings of nutritional studies in ASDs, with an emphasis on the most common monogenic cause of autism, Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), and the most studied dietary intervention, the ketogenic diet as well as other dietary interventions. We also discuss the gut microbiota in relation to pre- and probiotic therapies and provide insight into future directions that could aid in understanding the mechanism(s) underlying dietary efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabiha Alam
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Cara J. Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. McCullagh
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
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De Sales-Millán A, Aguirre-Garrido JF, González-Cervantes RM, Velázquez-Aragón JA. Microbiome-Gut-Mucosal-Immune-Brain Axis and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Novel Proposal of the Role of the Gut Microbiome in ASD Aetiology. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:548. [PMID: 37503995 PMCID: PMC10376175 DOI: 10.3390/bs13070548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by deficits in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and stereotyped interests. Due of the high prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders in individuals with ASD, researchers have investigated the gut microbiota as a potential contributor to its aetiology. The relationship between the microbiome, gut, and brain (microbiome-gut-brain axis) has been acknowledged as a key factor in modulating brain function and social behaviour, but its connection to the aetiology of ASD is not well understood. Recently, there has been increasing attention on the relationship between the immune system, gastrointestinal disorders and neurological issues in ASD, particularly in relation to the loss of specific species or a decrease in microbial diversity. It focuses on how gut microbiota dysbiosis can affect gut permeability, immune function and microbiota metabolites in ASD. However, a very complete study suggests that dysbiosis is a consequence of the disease and that it has practically no effect on autistic manifestations. This is a review of the relationship between the immune system, microbial diversity and the microbiome-gut-brain axis in the development of autistic symptoms severity and a proposal of a novel role of gut microbiome in ASD, where dysbiosis is a consequence of ASD-related behaviour and where dysbiosis in turn accentuates the autistic manifestations of the patients via the microbiome-gut-brain axis in a feedback circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amapola De Sales-Millán
- División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
| | - José Félix Aguirre-Garrido
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Rina María González-Cervantes
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
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21
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Cassidy-Bushrow AE, Sitarik AR, Johnson CC, Johnson-Hooper TM, Kassem Z, Levin AM, Lynch SV, Ownby DR, Phillips JM, Yong GJM, Wegienka G, Straughen JK. Early-life gut microbiota and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in preadolescents. Pediatr Res 2023; 93:2051-2060. [PMID: 35440767 PMCID: PMC9582043 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02051-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gut microbiota maturation coincides with nervous system development. Cross-sectional data suggest gut microbiota of individuals with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) differs. We hypothesized that infant gut microbiota composition is associated with later ADHD development in our on-going birth cohort study, WHEALS. METHODS Gut microbiota was profiled using 16S ribosomal RNA and the internal transcribed spacer region 2 (ITS2) sequencing in stool samples from 1 month and 6 months of age. ADHD was defined by parent-reported or medical record doctor diagnosis at age 10. RESULTS A total of 314 children had gut microbiota and ADHD data; 59 (18.8%) had ADHD. After covariate adjustment, bacterial phylogenetic diversity (p = 0.017) and bacterial composition (unweighted UniFrac p = 0.006, R2 = 0.9%) at age 6 months were associated with development of ADHD. At 1 month of age, 18 bacterial and 3 fungal OTUs were associated with ADHD development. At 6 months of age, 51 bacterial OTUs were associated with ADHD; 14 of the order Lactobacillales. Three fungal OTUs at 6 months of age were associated with ADHD development. CONCLUSIONS Infant gut microbiota is associated with ADHD development in pre-adolescents. Further studies replicating these findings and evaluating potential mechanisms of the association are needed. IMPACT Cross-sectional studies suggest that the gut microbiota of individuals with and without ADHD differs. We found evidence that the bacterial gut microbiota of infants at 1 month and 6 months of age is associated with ADHD at age 10 years. We also found novel evidence that the fungal gut microbiota in infancy (ages 1 month and 6 months) is associated with ADHD at age 10 years. This study addresses a gap in the literature in providing longitudinal evidence for an association of the infant gut microbiota with later ADHD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Cassidy-Bushrow
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA.
- Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | | | - Christine Cole Johnson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Tisa M Johnson-Hooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Zeinab Kassem
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Albert M Levin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Susan V Lynch
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dennis R Ownby
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Jannel M Phillips
- Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services, Division of Neuropsychology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Germaine J M Yong
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jennifer K Straughen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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22
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Straughen JK, Sitarik AR, Wegienka G, Cole Johnson C, Johnson-Hooper TM, Cassidy-Bushrow AE. Association between prenatal antimicrobial use and offspring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285163. [PMID: 37134093 PMCID: PMC10156013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gut-brain cross-talk may play an important role in modulating neurodevelopment. Few studies have examined the association between antimicrobials that influence infant gut microbiota assemblage and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). OBJECTIVE To examine the association between maternal prenatal antimicrobial use and ADHD in offspring at 10 years of age. METHODS Data are from the Wayne County Health, Environment, Allergy and Asthma Longitudinal Study, a racially and socioeconomically diverse birth cohort in metropolitan Detroit, Michigan. Maternal antimicrobial use was extracted from the medical record. ADHD diagnoses were based on parental report at the 10-year study visit. Poisson regression models with robust error variance were used to calculate risk ratios (RR). Cumulative frequency of exposure to antibiotics, and effect modification were also evaluated. RESULTS Among the 555 children included in the analysis, 108 were diagnosed with ADHD. During pregnancy, 54.1% of mothers used antibiotics while 18.7% used antifungals. Overall, there was no evidence of an association between prenatal antibiotic exposure and ADHD (RR [95% CI] = 0.98 [0.75, 1.29]), but there was an increased risk of ADHD among those with mothers using 3+ courses of antibiotics (RR [95%CI] = 1.58 [1.10, 2.29]). Prenatal exposure to antifungals was associated with a 1.6 times higher risk of ADHD (RR [95% CI] = 1.60 [1.19, 2.15]). In examining effect modification by child sex for antifungal use, there was no evidence of an association among females (RR [95% CI] = 0.97 [0.42, 2.23]), but among males, prenatal antifungal use was associated with 1.82 times higher risk of ADHD (RR [95% CI] = 1.82 [1.29, 2.56]). CONCLUSIONS Maternal prenatal antifungal use and frequent prenatal antibiotic use are associated with an increased risk of ADHD in offspring at age 10. These findings highlight the importance of the prenatal environment and the need for careful use of antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K. Straughen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Alexandra R. Sitarik
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Christine Cole Johnson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Tisa M. Johnson-Hooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Andrea E. Cassidy-Bushrow
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
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23
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Wasiak J, Gawlik-Kotelnicka O. Intestinal permeability and its significance in psychiatric disorders - a narrative review and future perspectives. Behav Brain Res 2023; 448:114459. [PMID: 37121278 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The topic of increased intestinal permeability and its impact on the human body is. increasingly being addressed by researchers. It is associated with disruption of the. intestinal barrier, leading to the "leaky gut" syndrome. This can be assessed by. classical methods, determining the concentration of orally administered tracer. molecules in urine or by using biomarkers such as LPS, LBP or zonulin in blood. plasma. The presence of bacterial endotoxins in the body causes inflammation. In this. article, we review research on increased intestinal permeability in psychiatric illness. mood disorders, schizophrenia, alcohol dependence, anxiety disorders,. neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. The results of the studies used. to assess intestinal permeability in different disease entities are presented. Possible. mechanisms for these interactions are the effects of chronic, low-grade inflammation. on the human brain, causing interruption of the brain blood barrier and dysfunction of. astrocytes and microglia. This affects brain function by reducing the number of. dopaminergic neurons, disrupting tryptophan metabolism and altering the amount of. GABA and glutamate. The links and mechanisms found may, in the future, allow earlier. detection of diseases and their targeted treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Wasiak
- Medical University of Lodz, Kosciuszki 4, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Oliwia Gawlik-Kotelnicka
- Department of Affective and Psychotic Disorders, Medical University of Lodz, Czechoslowacka 8/10, 92-216 Lodz, Poland.
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24
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Dargenio VN, Dargenio C, Castellaneta S, De Giacomo A, Laguardia M, Schettini F, Francavilla R, Cristofori F. Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction and Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis: Possible Implications in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071620. [PMID: 37049461 PMCID: PMC10096948 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with multifactorial etiology, characterized by impairment in two main functional areas: (1) communication and social interactions, and (2) skills, interests and activities. ASD patients often suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms associated with dysbiotic states and a “leaky gut.” A key role in the pathogenesis of ASD has been attributed to the gut microbiota, as it influences central nervous system development and neuropsychological and gastrointestinal homeostasis through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. A state of dysbiosis with a reduction in the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio and Bacteroidetes level and other imbalances is common in ASD. In recent decades, many authors have tried to study and identify the microbial signature of ASD through in vivo and ex vivo studies. In this regard, the advent of metabolomics has also been of great help. Based on these data, several therapeutic strategies, primarily the use of probiotics, are investigated to improve the symptoms of ASD through the modulation of the microbiota. However, although the results are promising, the heterogeneity of the studies precludes concrete evidence. The aim of this review is to explore the role of intestinal barrier dysfunction, the gut–brain axis and microbiota alterations in ASD and the possible role of probiotic supplementation in these patients.
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25
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Feng P, Zhao S, Zhang Y, Li E. A review of probiotics in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders: Perspectives from the gut–brain axis. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1123462. [PMID: 37007501 PMCID: PMC10060862 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1123462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a class of neurodevelopmental conditions with a large societal impact. Despite existing evidence suggesting a link between ASD pathogenesis and gut–brain axis dysregulation, there is no systematic review of the treatment of probiotics on ASD and its associated gastrointestinal abnormalities based on the gut–brain axis. Therefore, we performed an analysis for ASD based on preclinical and clinical research to give a comprehensive synthesis of published evidence of a potential mechanism for ASD. On the one hand, this review aims to elucidate the link between gastrointestinal abnormalities and ASD. Accordingly, we discuss gut microbiota dysbiosis regarding gut–brain axis dysfunction. On the other hand, this review suggests that probiotic administration to regulate the gut–brain axis might improve gastrointestinal symptoms, restore ASD-related behavioral symptoms, restore gut microbiota composition, reduce inflammation, and restore intestinal barrier function in human and animal models. This review suggests that targeting the microbiota through agents such as probiotics may represent an approach for treating subsets of individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengya Feng
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory of Helicobacter pylori, Microbiota and Gastrointestinal Cancer of Henan Province, Marshall Medical Research Center, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- College of Bioengineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Zhang
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Enyao Li
- Department of Children Rehabilitation, Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Henan, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Enyao Li,
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26
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He X, Liu W, Tang F, Chen X, Song G. Effects of Probiotics on Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061415. [PMID: 36986145 PMCID: PMC10054498 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies have explored the efficacy of probiotics on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, but there is no consensus on the curative effect. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively investigate whether probiotics could improve behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. A systematic database search was conducted and a total of seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. We found a nonsignificant overall effect size of probiotics on behavioral symptoms in children with ASD (SMD = −0.24, 95% CI: −0.60 to 0.11, p = 0.18). However, a significant overall effect size was found in the subgroup of the probiotic blend (SMD = −0.42, 95% CI: −0.83 to −0.02, p = 0.04). Additionally, these studies provided limited evidence for the efficacy of probiotics due to their small sample sizes, a shorter intervention duration, different probiotics used, different scales used, and poor research quality. Thus, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled studies following strict trial guidelines are needed to precisely demonstrate the therapeutic effects of probiotics on ASD in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao He
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 South Road, Lvshun District, Dalian 116044, China; (X.H.); (W.L.); (F.T.)
| | - Wenxi Liu
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 South Road, Lvshun District, Dalian 116044, China; (X.H.); (W.L.); (F.T.)
| | - Fengrao Tang
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 South Road, Lvshun District, Dalian 116044, China; (X.H.); (W.L.); (F.T.)
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 South Road, Lvshun District, Dalian 116044, China;
| | - Guirong Song
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Dalian Medical University, No. 9 South Road, Lvshun District, Dalian 116044, China; (X.H.); (W.L.); (F.T.)
- Correspondence:
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27
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Lee YF, Wu MC, Ma KSK, Huang JY, Wei JCC. Association of early childhood constipation with the risk of autism spectrum disorder in Taiwan: Real-world evidence from a nationwide population-based cohort study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1116239. [PMID: 37065891 PMCID: PMC10098334 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1116239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental problem that presents with limited interests, repetitive behaviors, and deficits in reciprocal communication and social interactions. Mounting evidence indicates that an imbalanced gut microbiota contributes to autism via the gut-brain axis. Constipation may result in alteration of the gut microbiota. The clinical influence of constipation on ASD has not been fully researched. Thus, in this study we aimed to evaluate whether early childhood constipation influenced the risk of developing ASD using a nationwide population-based cohort study. Methods We identified 12,935 constipated children aged 3 years or younger from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan from 1997 to 2013. Non-constipated children were also selected from the database and propensity score matching of age, gender, and underlying comorbidities was conducted with a ratio of 1:1. Kaplan-Meier analysis was applied to determine different levels of constipation severity and cumulative incidence of autism. Subgroup analysis was also applied in this study. Results The incidence rate of ASD was 12.36 per 100,000 person-months in the constipation group, which was higher than the rate of 7.84 per 100,000 person-months noted in the non-constipation controls. Constipated children had a significantly higher risk of autism when compared to the non-constipation group (crude relative risk = 1.458, 95% CI = 1.116-1.904; adjusted hazard ratio = 1.445, 95% CI = 1.095-1.907).Moreover, among constipated children, a higher number of laxative prescriptions, male gender, constipation during infancy, and atopic dermatitis were significantly associated with higher risks of ASD when compared to the non-constipation group. Conclusion Constipation in early childhood was correlated with a significantly increased risk of ASD. Clinicians should pay attention to the possibility of ASD in constipated children. Further research is necessary to study the possible pathophysiological mechanisms of this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Feng Lee
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Medical Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Che Wu
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Children’s Medical Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kevin Sheng-Kai Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
- Center for Global Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jing-Yang Huang
- Center for Health Data Science, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Jing-Yang Hung,
| | - James Cheng-Chung Wei
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: James Cheng-Chung Wei,
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28
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Chen YC, Lin HY, Chien Y, Tung YH, Ni YH, Gau SSF. Altered gut microbiota correlates with behavioral problems but not gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with autism. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 106:161-178. [PMID: 36058421 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite inconsistent results across studies, emerging evidence suggests that the microbial micro-environment may be associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Geographical and cultural factors highly impact microbial profiles, and there is a shortage of data from East Asian populations. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize microbial profiles in an East Asian sample and explore whether gut microbiota contributes to clinical symptoms, emotional/behavioral problems, and GI symptoms in ASD. METHODS We assessed 82 boys and young men with ASD and 31 typically developing controls (TDC), aged 6-25 years. We analyzed the stool sample of all participants with 16S V3-V4 rRNA sequencing and correlated its profile with GI symptoms, autistic symptoms, and emotional/behavioral problems. RESULTS Autistic individuals, compared to TDC, had worse GI symptoms. There were no group differences in alpha diversity of species richness estimates (Shannon-wiener and Simpson diversity indices). Participants with ASD had an increased relative abundance of Fusobacterium, Ruminococcus torques group (at the genus level), and Bacteroides plebeius DSM 17135 (at the species level), while a decreased relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae UCG 013, Ervsipelotrichaceae UCG 003, Parasutterella, Clostridium sensu stricto 1, Turicibacter (at the genus level), and Clostridium spiroforme DSM 1552 and Intestinimonas butyriciproducens (at the species level). Altered taxonomic diversity in ASD significantly correlated with autistic symptoms, thought problems, delinquent behaviors, self dysregulation, and somatic complaints. We did not find an association between gut symptoms and gut microbial dysbiosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that altered microbiota are associated with behavioral phenotypes but not GI symptoms in ASD. The function of the identified microbial profiles mainly involves the immune pathway, supporting the hypothesis of a complex relationship between altered microbiome, immune dysregulation, and ASD that may advance the discovery of molecular biomarkers for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chieh Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Yuan Lin
- Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yiling Chien
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hung Tung
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hsuan Ni
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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29
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Guidetti C, Salvini E, Viri M, Deidda F, Amoruso A, Visciglia A, Drago L, Calgaro M, Vitulo N, Pane M, Caucino AC. Randomized Double-Blind Crossover Study for Evaluating a Probiotic Mixture on Gastrointestinal and Behavioral Symptoms of Autistic Children. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11185263. [PMID: 36142909 PMCID: PMC9504504 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11185263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) represent a diagnostic challenge with a still partially uncertain etiology, in which genetic and environmental factors have now been assessed. Among the hypotheses underlying the involvement of biological and environmental factors, the gut–brain axis is of particular interest in autism spectrum disorders. Several studies have highlighted the related incidence of particular gastrointestinal symptoms (GISs) in children suffering from ASDs. Probiotics have shown success in treating several gastrointestinal dysbiotic disorders; therefore, it is plausible to investigate whether they can alleviate behavioral symptoms as well. On these bases, a randomized double-blind crossover study with a placebo was conducted, evaluating the effects of a mixture of probiotics in a group of 61 subjects aged between 24 months and 16 years old with a diagnosis of ASD. Behavioral evaluation was performed through the administration of a questionnaire including a Parenting Stress Index (PSI) test and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS). The Psycho-Educational Profile and the Autism Spectrum Rating Scale (ASRS) were also evaluated. Microbial composition analyses of fecal samples of the two groups was also performed. The study showed significant improvements in GISs, communication skills, maladaptive behaviors, and perceived parental stress level after the administration of probiotics. Microbiome alpha diversity was comparable between treatment arms and no significant differences were found, although beta diversity results were significantly different in the treatment group between T0 and T1 time points. Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, and Ligilactobacillus salivarius species were identified as some of the most discriminant taxa positively associated with T1 samples. This preliminary study corroborates the relationship between intestinal microbiota and ASD recently described in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Guidetti
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Elena Salvini
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Viri
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | | | - Angela Amoruso
- Probiotical Research Srl, Via E. Mattei 3, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | | | - Lorenzo Drago
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Matteo Calgaro
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Nicola Vitulo
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Pane
- Probiotical Research Srl, Via E. Mattei 3, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Claudia Caucino
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
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30
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Wong OWH, Lam AMW, Or BPN, Mo FYM, Shea CKS, Lai KYC, Ma SL, Hung SF, Chan S, Kwong TNY, Wong S, Leung PWL. Disentangling the relationship of gut microbiota, functional gastrointestinal disorders and autism: a case-control study on prepubertal Chinese boys. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10659. [PMID: 35739175 PMCID: PMC9225987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14785-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence of an altered gut microbiome in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) suggests a pathomechanism through the gut-brain axis despite the inconsistent microbiome profile reported across studies. One of the knowledge gaps in the existing ASD microbiota studies is the lack of systematic exploration of the role of comorbid functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) in the association of ASD and altered gut microbiome. Consequently, 92 ASD and 112 age-matched typically developing (TD) boys were profiled on general psychopathology, FGID status by Rome IV classification, and gut microbiota using 16S ribosomal RNA amplicon sequencing at the V4 hypervariable region. Compared to TD, a significant decrease in the within-sample abundance of taxa was observed in ASD, regardless of FGID status. The microbiota of ASD FGID+ and ASD FGID- clustered apart from the TD groups. The microbiota of ASD FGID+ also showed qualitative differences from that of ASD FGID- and had the highest-level Firmicutes: Bacteroidetes ratio, which was paralleled by elevated levels of anxiety and overall psychopathology. The altered gastrointestinal microbiota composition in ASD appeared to be independent of comorbid FGID. Further studies should address how FGID may mediate neuropsychiatric symptoms in ASD through inflammation along the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar W H Wong
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Angela M W Lam
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Brian P N Or
- Department of Psychiatry, Tai Po Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Flora Y M Mo
- Department of Psychiatry, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Caroline K S Shea
- Department of Psychiatry, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kelly Y C Lai
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Suk Ling Ma
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Se Fong Hung
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sandra Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Thomas N Y Kwong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sunny Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Patrick W L Leung
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Hong RP, Hou YY, Xu XJ, Lang JD, Jin YF, Zeng XF, Zhang X, Tian G, You X. The Difference of Gut Microbiota and Their Correlations With Urinary Organic Acids Between Autistic Children With and Without Atopic Dermatitis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:886196. [PMID: 35800387 PMCID: PMC9253573 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.886196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a kind of biologically based neurodevelopmental condition, and the coexistence of atopic dermatitis (AD) is not uncommon. Given that the gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of both diseases, we aimed to explore the differences of gut microbiota and their correlations with urinary organic acids between autistic children with and without AD. We enrolled 61 autistic children including 36 with AD and 25 without AD. The gut microbiota was sequenced by metagenomic shotgun sequencing, and the diversity, compositions, and functional pathways were analyzed further. Urinary organic acids were assayed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and univariate/multivariate analyses were applied. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to explore their relationships. In our study, AD individuals had more prominent gastrointestinal disorders. The alpha diversity of the gut microbiota was lower in the AD group. LEfSe analysis showed a higher abundance of Anaerostipes caccae, Eubacterium hallii, and Bifidobacterium bifidum in AD individuals, with Akkermansia muciniphila, Roseburia intestinalis, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, and Rothia mucilaginosa in controls. Meanwhile, functional profiles showed that the pathway of lipid metabolism had a higher proportion in the AD group, and the pathway of xenobiotics biodegradation was abundant in controls. Among urinary organic acids, adipic acid, 3-hydroxyglutaric acid, tartaric acid, homovanillic acid, 2-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, aconitic acid, and 2-hydroxyhippuric acid were richer in the AD group. However, only adipic acid remained significant in the multivariate analysis (OR = 1.513, 95% CI [1.042, 2.198], P = 0.030). In the correlation analysis, Roseburia intestinalis had a negative correlation with aconitic acid (r = -0.14, P = 0.02), and the latter was positively correlated with adipic acid (r = 0.41, P = 0.006). Besides, the pathway of xenobiotics biodegradation seems to inversely correlate with adipic acid (r = -0.42, P = 0.18). The gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of AD in autistic children, and more well-designed studies are warranted to explore the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru-ping Hong
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yue-ying Hou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xin-jie Xu
- Medical Science Research Center, Research Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Scientific Research, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Xiao-feng Zeng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Beijing, China
| | - Geng Tian
- Geneis Beijing Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Xin You
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Dermatologic and Immunologic Diseases (NCRC-DID), Beijing, China
- Autism Special Fund, Peking Union Medical Foundation, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xin You,
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Kong G, Lê Cao KA, Hannan AJ. Alterations in the Gut Fungal Community in a Mouse Model of Huntington's Disease. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0219221. [PMID: 35262396 PMCID: PMC9045163 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02192-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a trinucleotide expansion in the HTT gene, which is expressed throughout the brain and body, including the gut epithelium and enteric nervous system. Afflicted individuals suffer from progressive impairments in motor, psychiatric, and cognitive faculties, as well as peripheral deficits, including the alteration of the gut microbiome. However, studies characterizing the gut microbiome in HD have focused entirely on the bacterial component, while the fungal community (mycobiome) has been overlooked. The gut mycobiome has gained recognition for its role in host homeostasis and maintenance of the gut epithelial barrier. We aimed to characterize the gut mycobiome profile in HD using fecal samples collected from the R6/1 transgenic mouse model (and wild-type littermate controls) from 4 to 12 weeks of age, corresponding to presymptomatic through to early disease stages. Shotgun sequencing was performed on fecal DNA samples, followed by metagenomic analyses. The HD gut mycobiome beta diversity was significantly different from that of wild-type littermates at 12 weeks of age, while no genotype differences were observed at the earlier time points. Similarly, greater alpha diversity was observed in the HD mice by 12 weeks of age. Key taxa, including Malassezia restricta, Yarrowia lipolytica, and Aspergillus species, were identified as having a negative association with HD. Furthermore, integration of the bacterial and fungal data sets at 12 weeks of age identified negative correlations between the HD-associated fungal species and Lactobacillus reuteri. These findings provide new insights into gut microbiome alterations in HD and may help identify novel therapeutic targets. IMPORTANCE Huntington's disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder affecting both the mind and body. We have recently discovered that gut bacteria are disrupted in HD. The present study provides the first evidence of an altered gut fungal community (mycobiome) in HD. The genomes of many thousands of gut microbes were sequenced and used to assess "metagenomics" in particular the different types of fungal species in the HD versus control gut, in a mouse model. At an early disease stage, before the onset of symptoms, the overall gut mycobiome structure (array of fungi) in HD mice was distinct from that of their wild-type littermates. Alterations of multiple key fungi species were identified as being associated with the onset of disease symptoms, some of which showed strong correlations with the gut bacterial community. This study highlights the potential role of gut fungi in HD and may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Kong
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne Brain Centre, Parkville, Australia
| | - Kim-Anh Lê Cao
- Melbourne Integrative Genomics, School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Anthony J. Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne Brain Centre, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Role of diet and its effects on the gut microbiome in the pathophysiology of mental disorders. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:164. [PMID: 35443740 PMCID: PMC9021202 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01922-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There is emerging evidence that diet has a major modulatory influence on brain-gut-microbiome (BGM) interactions with important implications for brain health, and for several brain disorders. The BGM system is made up of neuroendocrine, neural, and immune communication channels which establish a network of bidirectional interactions between the brain, the gut and its microbiome. Diet not only plays a crucial role in shaping the gut microbiome, but it can modulate structure and function of the brain through these communication channels. In this review, we summarize the evidence available from preclinical and clinical studies on the influence of dietary habits and interventions on a selected group of psychiatric and neurologic disorders including depression, cognitive decline, Parkinson's disease, autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy. We will particularly address the role of diet-induced microbiome changes which have been implicated in these effects, and some of which are shared between different brain disorders. While the majority of these findings have been demonstrated in preclinical and in cross-sectional, epidemiological studies, to date there is insufficient evidence from mechanistic human studies to make conclusions about causality between a specific diet and microbially mediated brain function. Many of the dietary benefits on microbiome and brain health have been attributed to anti-inflammatory effects mediated by the microbial metabolites of dietary fiber and polyphenols. The new attention given to dietary factors in brain disorders has the potential to improve treatment outcomes with currently available pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies.
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Dash S, Syed YA, Khan MR. Understanding the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Brain Development and Its Association With Neurodevelopmental Psychiatric Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:880544. [PMID: 35493075 PMCID: PMC9048050 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.880544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome has a tremendous influence on human physiology, including the nervous system. During fetal development, the initial colonization of the microbiome coincides with the development of the nervous system in a timely, coordinated manner. Emerging studies suggest an active involvement of the microbiome and its metabolic by-products in regulating early brain development. However, any disruption during this early developmental process can negatively impact brain functionality, leading to a range of neurodevelopment and neuropsychiatric disorders (NPD). In this review, we summarize recent evidence as to how the gut microbiome can influence the process of early human brain development and its association with major neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and schizophrenia. Further, we discuss how gut microbiome alterations can also play a role in inducing drug resistance in the affected individuals. We propose a model that establishes a direct link of microbiome dysbiosis with the exacerbated inflammatory state, leading to functional brain deficits associated with NPD. Based on the existing research, we discuss a framework whereby early diet intervention can boost mental wellness in the affected subjects and call for further research for a better understanding of mechanisms that govern the gut-brain axis may lead to novel approaches to the study of the pathophysiology and treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somarani Dash
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Yasir Ahmed Syed
- School of Biosciences and Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mojibur R. Khan
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, India
- *Correspondence: Mojibur R. Khan,
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Hong M, Cheng L, Liu Y, Wu Z, Zhang P, Zhang X. Mechanisms Underlying the Interaction Between Chronic Neurological Disorders and Microbial Metabolites via Tea Polyphenols Therapeutics. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:823902. [PMID: 35401435 PMCID: PMC8991060 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.823902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of hydroxyl groups and existence of characteristic structural groups in tea polyphenols (TP) make them have antioxidant activity, which gives TP anti-inflammatory effects, toward protecting the intestinal flora and brain neurons. Host-associated microbial metabolites are emerging as dominant modifiers of the central nervous system. As yet, the investigations on host-microbiota crosstalking remain challenging, studies focusing on metabolites such as serotonin, short-chain fatty acids, and others have pinpointed multiple actionable signaling pathways relevant to host health. However, there are still complexities and apparent limitations inherent in transforming complex human diseases to corresponding animal models. Here, we choose to discuss several intestinal metabolites with research value, as crucial areas for assessing TP-mediated chronic brain diseases interactions with microbial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Hong
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Lu Cheng
- Department of Food Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Yanan Liu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Zufang Wu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Student Affairs, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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de la Torre-Aguilar MJ, Gomez-Fernandez A, Flores-Rojas K, Martin-Borreguero P, Mesa MD, Perez-Navero JL, Olivares M, Gil A, Gil-Campos M. Docosahexaenoic and Eicosapentaenoic Intervention Modifies Plasma and Erythrocyte Omega-3 Fatty Acid Profiles But Not the Clinical Course of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Control Trial. Front Nutr 2022; 9:790250. [PMID: 35425788 PMCID: PMC9002234 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.790250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is under investigation and one of the main alterations relates to the metabolic and inflammatory system dysfunctions. Indeed, based on a possible deficit of omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) of patients with ASD and looking for an anti-inflammatory effect, dietary supplements with omega-3 fatty acids have been proposed. We aimed to evaluate differences in plasma and erythrocyte FA profiles and plasma cytokines in patients with infantile ASD after supplementation with docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acids or placebo and both compared at baseline with a reference healthy group.MethodsA double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled intervention with DHA/EPA for 6 months was carried out in 54 children between 2 and 6 years diagnosed with ASD. They were selected and randomly assigned into two groups: 19 children received 800 mg/day of DHA and 25 mg/day of EPA, or placebo. In addition, another reference group of 59 healthy children of the same age was included. Plasma lipids and cytokines, and FA profiles in plasma and erythrocytes were measured at baseline and after 6 months of treatment in ASD children, and at baseline in the reference group.ResultsThere were no differences in demographic, anthropometric characteristics, and omega-3 intake between the healthy reference group and the ASD children at baseline. Children with ASD showed the higher plasma percentages of palmitic acid and total saturated FA and lower total omega-6 polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) compared with healthy children. An increased level of DHA and reduced EPA level in erythrocytes were detected in the ASD group vs. the reference group. After 6 months of treatment, the ASD group that received DHA enriched product significantly increased the plasma and erythrocyte percentages of DHA, but no differences were observed in the clinical test scores and other parameters as plasma cytokines between the two groups of ASD related to the intervention.ConclusionSpanish children with ASD exhibit an appropriate omega-3 FA status in plasma and erythrocytes. Neither a clinical improvement of ASD children nor a better anti-inflammatory or fatty acid state has been found after an intervention with DHA/EPA for 6 months. So, the prescription of n-3 LC-PUFA and other dietary supplements in ASD should be only indicated after a confirmed alteration of FA metabolism or omega-3 LC-PUFA deficiency evaluated by specific erythrocyte FA.Clinical Trial Registration[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT03620097].
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jose de la Torre-Aguilar
- Pediatric Research and Metabolism Unit, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Gomez-Fernandez
- Pediatric Research and Metabolism Unit, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Katherine Flores-Rojas
- Pediatric Research and Metabolism Unit, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Pilar Martin-Borreguero
- Department of Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychiatry and Psychology, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - María Dolores Mesa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II University of Granada, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria IBS.GRANADA, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix,” University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Granada, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Perez-Navero
- Pediatric Research and Metabolism Unit, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERER (Ciber Rare Diseases), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Juan Luis Perez-Navero, ,
| | | | - Angel Gil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II University of Granada, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria IBS.GRANADA, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix,” University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Granada, Spain
- CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Gil-Campos
- Pediatric Research and Metabolism Unit, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Maimónides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
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Bonnechère B, Amin N, van Duijn C. The Role of Gut Microbiota in Neuropsychiatric Diseases – Creation of An Atlas-Based on Quantified Evidence. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:831666. [PMID: 35360098 PMCID: PMC8964285 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.831666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence highlighting the significant role of gut microbiota in various pathologies. We performed a systematic review to review the different microbiota involved in neuropsychiatric diseases. 50 studies (23 studies for autism spectrum disorders, 18 for major depression, and 9 for schizophrenia), representing 2,137 patients and 2,844 controls. Concerning the microbiota, the genera Prevotella, Clostridium, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Ruminococcus, Megamonas, and Faecalbacterium were the ones detected with the most frequent variation of their relatives abundance. We also assess the overlap between the different pathologies. This study provides new insights into the complex relationship between the brain and the gut and the implications in neuropsychiatric pathologies. The identification of unique signatures in neuropsychiatric diseases suggests new possibilities in targeted anti or probiotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bonnechère
- REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Najaf Amin
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Cornelia van Duijn
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Cornelia van Duijn,
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Alookaran J, Liu Y, Auchtung TA, Tahanan A, Hessabi M, Asgarisabet P, Rahbar M, Fatheree NY, Pearson DA, Mansour R, Van Arsdall MR, Navarro F, Rhoads JM. Fungi: Friend or Foe? A Mycobiome Evaluation in Children With Autism and Gastrointestinal Symptoms. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2022; 74:377-382. [PMID: 34724444 PMCID: PMC8885784 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms often affect children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and GI symptoms have been associated with an abnormal fecal microbiome. There is limited evidence of Candida species being more prevalent in children with ASD. We enrolled 20 children with ASD and GI symptoms (ASD + GI), 10 children with ASD but no GI symptoms (ASD - GI), and 20 from typically developing (TD) children in this pilot study. Fecal mycobiome taxa were analyzed by Internal Transcribed Spacer sequencing. GI symptoms (GI Severity Index [GSI]), behavioral symptoms (Social Responsiveness Scale -2 [SRS-2]), inflammation and fungal immunity (fecal calprotectin and serum dectin-1 [ELISA]) were evaluated. We observed no changes in the abundance of total fungal species (alpha diversity) between groups. Samples with identifiable Candida spp. were present in 4 of 19 (21%) ASD + GI, in 5 of 9 (56%) ASD - GI, and in 4 of 16 (25%) TD children (overall P = 0.18). The presence of Candida spp. did not correlate with behavioral or GI symptoms (P = 0.38, P = 0.5, respectively). Fecal calprotectin was normal in all but one child. Finally, there was no significance in serum dectin-1 levels, suggesting no increased fungal immunity in children with ASD. Our data suggest that fungi are present at normal levels in the stool of children with ASD and are not associated with gut inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Alookaran
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Yuying Liu
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Thomas A. Auchtung
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68588, USA
| | - Amirali Tahanan
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Manouchehr Hessabi
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Parisa Asgarisabet
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Mohammad Rahbar
- Division of Clinical and Translational Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Nicole Y. Fatheree
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Deborah A. Pearson
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Rosleen Mansour
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Melissa R. Van Arsdall
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - Fernando Navarro
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
| | - J. Marc Rhoads
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, 77030, USA
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Ecovoiu AA, Ratiu AC, Micheu MM, Chifiriuc MC. Inter-Species Rescue of Mutant Phenotype—The Standard for Genetic Analysis of Human Genetic Disorders in Drosophila melanogaster Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052613. [PMID: 35269756 PMCID: PMC8909942 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Drosophila melanogaster (the fruit fly) is arguably a superstar of genetics, an astonishing versatile experimental model which fueled no less than six Nobel prizes in medicine. Nowadays, an evolving research endeavor is to simulate and investigate human genetic diseases in the powerful D. melanogaster platform. Such a translational experimental strategy is expected to allow scientists not only to understand the molecular mechanisms of the respective disorders but also to alleviate or even cure them. In this regard, functional gene orthology should be initially confirmed in vivo by transferring human or vertebrate orthologous transgenes in specific mutant backgrounds of D. melanogaster. If such a transgene rescues, at least partially, the mutant phenotype, then it qualifies as a strong candidate for modeling the respective genetic disorder in the fruit fly. Herein, we review various examples of inter-species rescue of relevant mutant phenotypes of the fruit fly and discuss how these results recommend several human genes as candidates to study and validate genetic variants associated with human diseases. We also consider that a wider implementation of this evolutionist exploratory approach as a standard for the medicine of genetic disorders would allow this particular field of human health to advance at a faster pace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Al. Ecovoiu
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 060101 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Attila Cristian Ratiu
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 060101 Bucharest, Romania;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-722250366
| | - Miruna Mihaela Micheu
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, 014461 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest and Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania;
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40
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Aljumaiah MM, Alonazi MA, Al-Dbass AM, Almnaizel AT, Alahmed M, Soliman DA, El-Ansary A. Association of Maternal Diabetes and Autism Spectrum Disorders in Offspring: a Study in a Rodent Model of Autism. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:349-358. [PMID: 34562183 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01912-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated that maternal type 1 diabetes may contribute to autism pathogenesis in offspring, and that insulin therapy during pregnancy may prevent the onset of autism. As evidenced, selected brain biomarkers representing the accepted etiological mechanism of autism in newborn rats from diabetic mothers and diabetic mothers receiving insulin therapy compared to the propionic acid (PPA) rodent model of autism were screened. Female Wistar rats with a controlled fertility cycle were randomly divided into three groups: a control group, a group treated with a single dose of 65 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) to induce type 1 diabetes (T1D), and a group treated with a single dose of STZ to induce T1D along with insulin therapy. Neonatal rats from these groups were divided into four experimental groups of six animals each: the control group, oral buffered PPA-treated group administered a neurotoxic dose of 250 mg/kg PPA for 3 days to induce autism, neonatal rats from mothers with T1D, and neonatal rats from mothers with T1D receiving insulin therapy. Biochemical parameters of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and glutamate excitotoxicity were examined in brain homogenates from all neonatal rats. The development of pathogenic bacteria was monitored in stool samples from all rat groups. Descriptive analyses of changes in fecal microbiota and overgrowth of Clostridium species were performed in diabetic mothers, diabetic mothers treated with insulin therapy, and their offspring. Clostridium species may induce autism-relevant behaviors in offspring from mothers with T1D. Maternal T1D without insulin therapy increased lipid peroxidation levels, reduced GST activity, and lower offspring' vitamin C and GSH levels. Increased IL-6 levels and reduced GABA levels were detected in brain homogenates from neonatal rats whose mothers had T1D. Interestingly, insulin therapy reduced MDA and IL-6 levels and increased GST, GSH, and vitamin C levels in brain homogenates of neonatal rats from mothers with T1D receiving insulin therapy compared to the PPA-treated group. Based on our results, the PPA-treated group and neonatal rats from mothers with T1D exhibited similar results. These findings suggest that neonatal rats from mothers with T1D may develop autism-relevant biochemical autistic features and that insulin therapy may ameliorate oxidative stress, poor detoxification, inflammation, and excitotoxicity as ascertained mechanisms involved in the etiology of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak M Aljumaiah
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona A Alonazi
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer M Al-Dbass
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad T Almnaizel
- Prince Naif for Health Research Center, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alahmed
- Prince Naif for Health Research Center, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dina A Soliman
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Laboratory, Female Campus, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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41
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Alharthi A, Alhazmi S, Alburae N, Bahieldin A. The Human Gut Microbiome as a Potential Factor in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031363. [PMID: 35163286 PMCID: PMC8835713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The high prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders among autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients has prompted scientists to look into the gut microbiota as a putative trigger in ASD pathogenesis. Thus, many studies have linked the gut microbial dysbiosis that is frequently observed in ASD patients with the modulation of brain function and social behavior, but little is known about this connection and its contribution to the etiology of ASD. This present review highlights the potential role of the microbiota–gut–brain axis in autism. In particular, it focuses on how gut microbiota dysbiosis may impact gut permeability, immune function, and the microbial metabolites in autistic people. We further discuss recent findings supporting the possible role of the gut microbiome in initiating epigenetic modifications and consider the potential role of this pathway in influencing the severity of ASD. Lastly, we summarize recent updates in microbiota-targeted therapies such as probiotics, prebiotics, dietary supplements, fecal microbiota transplantation, and microbiota transfer therapy. The findings of this paper reveal new insights into possible therapeutic interventions that may be used to reduce and cure ASD-related symptoms. However, well-designed research studies using large sample sizes are still required in this area of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Alharthi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Majmaah University, Al Zulfi 11932, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Safiah Alhazmi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Najla Alburae
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Ahmed Bahieldin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (A.B.)
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42
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Herman A, Herman AP. Could Candida Overgrowth Be Involved in the Pathophysiology of Autism? J Clin Med 2022; 11:442. [PMID: 35054136 PMCID: PMC8778531 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11020442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to summarize the current acquiredknowledge of Candida overgrowth in the intestine as a possible etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The influence of Candida sp. on the immune system, brain, and behavior of children with ASD isdescribed. The benefits of interventions such as a carbohydrates-exclusion diet, probiotic supplementation, antifungal agents, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and microbiota transfer therapy (MTT) will be also discussed. Our literature query showed that the results of most studies do not fully support the hypothesis that Candida overgrowth is correlated with gastrointestinal (GI) problems and contributes to autism behavioral symptoms occurrence. On the one hand, it was reported that the modulation of microbiota composition in the gut may decrease Candida overgrowth, help reduce GI problems and autism symptoms. On the other hand, studies on humans suggesting the beneficial effects of a sugar-free diet, probiotic supplementation, FMT and MTT treatment in ASD are limited and inconclusive. Due to the increasing prevalence of ASD, studies on the etiology of this disorder are extremely needed and valuable. However, to elucidate the possible involvement of Candida in the pathophysiology of ASD, more reliable and well-designed research is certainly required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Herman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Warsaw School of Engineering and Health, Bitwy Warszawskiej 20 18, 19 Street, 02-366 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Przemysław Herman
- Department of Genetic Engineering, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 Street, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland;
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Investigation of the Relation between Epithelial Barrier Function and Autism Symptom Severity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:741-747. [PMID: 34988901 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01954-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by limitations in mutual communication and social interaction as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests, or activities. The possible role of biological abnormalities in the etiopathogenesis of this disorder arouses research interest in this area. This is a case-control study evaluating epithelial barrier function by comparing serum concentrations of occludin and zonulin in children with ASD (n = 60) and controls (n = 30). The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was used to evaluate autism symptom levels in all children. Serum occludin and zonulin levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum occludin was significantly lower in children with ASD than in control subjects. In children with ASD, a decrease in occludin level was significantly associated with the disorder symptom levels items mean score (CARS total scores). Our findings showed that children with ASD had alterations in epithelial barrier function compared to the control group. The investigation of the mechanism underlying the different levels of occludin between ASD and controls may be of importance in clarifying the etiopathogenesis of ASD, as well as its follow-up and treatment.
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Jendraszak M, Gałęcka M, Kotwicka M, Regdos A, Pazgrat-Patan M, Andrusiewicz M. Commercial microbiota test revealed differences in the composition of intestinal microorganisms between children with autism spectrum disorders and neurotypical peers. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24274. [PMID: 34931007 PMCID: PMC8688445 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03794-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The early-life modifications of intestinal microbiota may impact children's subsequent emotional and cognitive development. Studies show that some bacteria species in gut microbiota, and the lack of others, may play a key role in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) development. Fecal samples were obtained from three groups of children: 16 healthy, 24 with allergies (ALG), and 33 with ASD (probiotics and non-probiotics users). The analysis was carried out according to the KyberKompakt Pro protocol. We observed a significantly higher level of Klebsiella spp. in the healthy children from the non-probiotics group, considering three groups. In the same group, Bifidobacterium spp. the level was lower in ASD compared to neurotypical individuals. In healthy children who did not use probiotics, strong positive correlations were observed in E. coli and Enterococcus spp. and Bacteroides and Klebsiella spp., and a negative correlation for Akkermansia muciniphila with both Klebsiella spp. and Bacteroides spp. In the ASD group who take probiotics, a strongly negative correlation was observed in Lactobacillus spp., and both Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Akkermansia muciniphila levels. In the ALG group, the strongest, negative correlation was found between Enterococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. as in Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium spp. The simple commercial test revealed minor differences in the composition of intestinal microorganisms between children with autism spectrum disorders and neurotypical peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Jendraszak
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Małgorzata Kotwicka
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | | | | | - Mirosław Andrusiewicz
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806, Poznan, Poland.
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Jurek L, Sevil M, Jay A, Schröder C, Baghdadli A, Héry-Arnaud G, Geoffray MM. Is there a dysbiosis in individuals with a neurodevelopmental disorder compared to controls over the course of development? A systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 30:1671-1694. [PMID: 32385698 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-020-01544-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Many scientific papers reported that an unbalanced gut microbiota could lead to or worsen neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). A dysbiosis may then be observed in the course of development and mark a dysfunction within what is called the gut-brain axis. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate potential evidence of dysbiosis in children and young adults with NDD compared to controls. Using the PRISMA guidelines we systematically reviewed studies that compared the gut microbiota in NDD participants (with an age inferior to thirty) to the gut microbiota of controls, regardless of the data analysis methods used. The MEDLINE, Scopus and PsycINFO databases were searched up to September 2018. 31 studies with a total sample size of 3002 ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and 84 ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) participants were included in this systematic review. Independent data extraction and quality assessment were conducted. The quality of the studies was rated from low to high. Population characterization and experimental methods were highly heterogeneous in terms of the data available, selection of criteria, and dysbiosis measurement. A dysbiosis was reported in 28 studies in terms of either diversity, bacterial composition or metabolome dysfunction. Due to heterogeneity, a quantitative synthesis was not applicable. In this paper, we discuss the different biases to understand the complexity of microbiota and neurodevelopmental disorders to provide leads for future cohort studies looking to answer the questions raised by the trillions of microorganisms that inhabit key body niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Jurek
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Departement, Center for Assessment and Diagnostic of Autism, Le Vinatier Hospital, Bron, France.
- Health Services and Performance Research EA7425, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University (CBL1), Lyon, France.
| | - Marine Sevil
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Departement, Center for Assessment and Diagnostic of Autism, Le Vinatier Hospital, Bron, France
| | - Agathe Jay
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Departement, Center for Assessment and Diagnostic of Autism, Le Vinatier Hospital, Bron, France
| | - Carmen Schröder
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
- CNRS UPR 3212, Team 9 Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (INCI), Strasbourg, France
| | - Amaria Baghdadli
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Departement, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
- INSERM U1178 Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie Et Santé Des Populations (CESP), Paris Sud University (UPS) Et Versailles Saint Quentin University (UVSQ), Versailles, France
| | - Geneviève Héry-Arnaud
- UMR1078, Génétique, Génomique Fonctionnelle Et Biotechnologies, INSERM, Université de Brest, EFS, IBSAM, Brest, France
- Unité de Bactériologie, Pôle de Biologie-Pathologie, Hôpital La Cavale Blanche, CHRU de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Marie-Maude Geoffray
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Departement, Center for Assessment and Diagnostic of Autism, Le Vinatier Hospital, Bron, France
- Health Services and Performance Research EA7425, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University (CBL1), Lyon, France
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Kittana M, Ahmadani A, Al Marzooq F, Attlee A. Dietary Fat Effect on the Gut Microbiome, and Its Role in the Modulation of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Nutrients 2021; 13:3818. [PMID: 34836074 PMCID: PMC8618510 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report a higher frequency and severity of gastrointestinal disorders (GID) than typically developing (TD) children. GID-associated discomfort increases feelings of anxiety and frustration, contributing to the severity of ASD. Emerging evidence supports the biological intersection of neurodevelopment and microbiome, indicating the integral contribution of GM in the development and function of the nervous system, and mental health, and disease balance. Dysbiotic GM could be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of GID in children with ASD. High-fat diets may modulate GM through accelerated growth of bile-tolerant bacteria, altered bacterial ratios, and reduced bacterial diversity, which may increase the risk of GID. Notably, saturated fatty acids are considered to have a pronounced effect on the increase of bile-tolerant bacteria and reduction in microbial diversity. Additionally, omega-3 exerts a favorable impact on GM and gut health due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Despite inconsistencies in the data elaborated in the review, the dietary fat composition, as part of an overall dietary intervention, plays a role in modulating GID, specifically in ASD, due to the altered microbiome profile. This review emphasizes the need to conduct future experimental studies investigating the effect of diets with varying fatty acid compositions on GID-specific microbiome profiles in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Kittana
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.K.); (A.A.)
| | - Asma Ahmadani
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.K.); (A.A.)
| | - Farah Al Marzooq
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Amita Attlee
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.K.); (A.A.)
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Tarnowska K, Gruczyńska-Sękowska E, Kowalska D, Majewska E, Kozłowska M, Winkler R. The opioid excess theory in autism spectrum disorders - is it worth investigating further? Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021:1-14. [PMID: 34702104 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1996329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are defined as neurodevelopmental disorders, which are highly variable in nature and do not form a uniform picture, either in terms of symptomatology or depth of the disturbance. Diagnosis of ASD is made for children who show signs of impairment in social interaction, communication and cognitive skills. The exact cause of autism spectrum disorders has not been determined to date. Although there is no cure for ASD, a variety interventions have been proposed. The most commonly used restrictive dietary intervention is the gluten-free casein-free diet (GFCF), which is based on the opioid excess theory. This paper summarizes and discusses research on the core elements of the opioid excess theory in ASD: increased levels of opioid peptides in body fluids in ASD patients, increased intestinal permeability, altered peptidase activity and the effectiveness of GFCF diet in alleviating symptoms of ASD. Furthermore, we discuss the difficulties and their causes in conducting research with ASD patients. The assumptions of the opioid excess theory have neither been definitively confirmed nor disproved. Research in this area should continue, taking into account the highest possible quality standards and the specific needs and abilities of patients with ASD and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Tarnowska
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Eliza Gruczyńska-Sękowska
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Kowalska
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Majewska
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariola Kozłowska
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Winkler
- Department of Organizational Behaviors, Cracow University of Economics, Cracow, Poland
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48
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Lombardi M, Troisi J. Gut Reactions: How Far Are We from Understanding and Manipulating the Microbiota Complexity and the Interaction with Its Host? Lessons from Autism Spectrum Disorder Studies. Nutrients 2021; 13:3492. [PMID: 34684493 PMCID: PMC8538077 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders, characterized by early onset difficulties in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors and interests. It is characterized by familial aggregation, suggesting that genetic factors play a role in disease development, in addition to developmentally early environmental factors. Here, we review the role of the gut microbiome in autism, as it has been characterized in case-control studies. We discuss how methodological differences may have led to inconclusive or contradictory results, even though a disproportion between harmful and beneficial bacteria is generally described in autism. Furthermore, we review the studies concerning the effects of gut microbial-based and dietary interventions on autism symptoms. Also, in this case, the results are not comparable due to the lack of standardized methods. Therefore, autism-specific microbiome signatures and, consequently, possible microbiome-oriented interventions are far from being recognized. We argue that a multi-omic longitudinal implementation may be useful to study metabolic changes connected to microbiome changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Lombardi
- Department of Chemistry and Biology “A. Zambelli”, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; or
- Theoreo Srl Spin Off Company, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Jacopo Troisi
- Department of Chemistry and Biology “A. Zambelli”, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy; or
- Theoreo Srl Spin Off Company, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132-84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
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Ha S, Oh D, Lee S, Park J, Ahn J, Choi S, Cheon KA. Altered Gut Microbiota in Korean Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13103300. [PMID: 34684301 PMCID: PMC8539113 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and behavioral impairments. Recent studies have suggested that gut microbiota play a critical role in ASD pathogenesis. Herein, we investigated the fecal microflora of Korean ASD children to determine gut microbiota profiles associated with ASD. Specifically, fecal samples were obtained from 54 children with ASD and 38 age-matched children exhibiting typical development. Systematic bioinformatic analysis revealed that the composition of gut microbiota differed between ASD and typically developing children (TDC). Moreover, the total amounts of short-chain fatty acids, metabolites produced by bacteria, were increased in ASD children. At the phylum level, we found a significant decrease in the relative Bacteroidetes abundance of the ASD group, whereas Actinobacteria abundance was significantly increased. Furthermore, we found significantly lower Bacteroides levels and higher Bifidobacterium levels in the ASD group than in the TDC group at the genus level. Functional analysis of the microbiota in ASD children predicted that several pathways, including genetic information processing and amino acid metabolism, can be associated with ASD pathogenesis. Although more research is needed to determine whether the differences between ASD and TDC are actually related to ASD pathogenesis, these results provide further evidence of altered gut microbiota in children with ASD, possibly providing new perspectives on the diagnosis and therapeutic approaches for ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungji Ha
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
| | - Donghun Oh
- Graduate School of Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
| | - Sunghee Lee
- Research Lab., Ildong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Hwaseong 18449, Korea; (S.L.); (J.P.); (S.C.)
| | - Jaewan Park
- Research Lab., Ildong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Hwaseong 18449, Korea; (S.L.); (J.P.); (S.C.)
| | - Jaeun Ahn
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Severance Children’s Hospital, Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
| | - Sungku Choi
- Research Lab., Ildong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Hwaseong 18449, Korea; (S.L.); (J.P.); (S.C.)
| | - Keun-Ah Cheon
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Severance Children’s Hospital, Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2228-1620
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50
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Salim S, Banu A, Alwa A, Gowda SBM, Mohammad F. The gut-microbiota-brain axis in autism: what Drosophila models can offer? J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:37. [PMID: 34525941 PMCID: PMC8442445 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09378-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The idea that alterations in gut-microbiome-brain axis (GUMBA)-mediated communication play a crucial role in human brain disorders like autism remains a topic of intensive research in various labs. Gastrointestinal issues are a common comorbidity in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although gut microbiome and microbial metabolites have been implicated in the etiology of ASD, the underlying molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. In this review, we have summarized recent findings in human and animal models highlighting the role of the gut-brain axis in ASD. We have discussed genetic and neurobehavioral characteristics of Drosophila as an animal model to study the role of GUMBA in ASD. The utility of Drosophila fruit flies as an amenable genetic tool, combined with axenic and gnotobiotic approaches, and availability of transgenic flies may reveal mechanistic insight into gut-microbiota-brain interactions and the impact of its alteration on behaviors relevant to neurological disorders like ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa Salim
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), College of Health & Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, 34110, Qatar
| | - Ayesha Banu
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), College of Health & Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, 34110, Qatar
| | - Amira Alwa
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), College of Health & Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, 34110, Qatar
| | - Swetha B M Gowda
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), College of Health & Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, 34110, Qatar
| | - Farhan Mohammad
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), College of Health & Life Sciences (CHLS), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, 34110, Qatar.
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