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Frye RE, Rincon N, McCarty PJ, Brister D, Scheck AC, Rossignol DA. Biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 197:106520. [PMID: 38703861 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106520] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 1 in 36 children and is associated with physiological abnormalities, most notably mitochondrial dysfunction, at least in a subset of individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis discovered 204 relevant articles which evaluated biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD individuals. Significant elevations (all p < 0.01) in the prevalence of lactate (17%), pyruvate (41%), alanine (15%) and creatine kinase (9%) were found in ASD. Individuals with ASD had significant differences (all p < 0.01) with moderate to large effect sizes (Cohen's d' ≥ 0.6) compared to controls in mean pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, ATP, and creatine kinase. Some studies found abnormal TCA cycle metabolites associated with ASD. Thirteen controlled studies reported mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions or variations in the ASD group in blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymphocytes, leucocytes, granulocytes, and brain. Meta-analyses discovered significant differences (p < 0.01) in copy number of mtDNA overall and in ND1, ND4 and CytB genes. Four studies linked specific mtDNA haplogroups to ASD. A series of studies found a subgroup of ASD with elevated mitochondrial respiration which was associated with increased sensitivity of the mitochondria to physiological stressors and neurodevelopmental regression. Lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, carnitine, and acyl-carnitines were associated with clinical features such as delays in language, social interaction, cognition, motor skills, and with repetitive behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms, although not all studies found an association. Lactate, carnitine, acyl-carnitines, ATP, CoQ10, as well as mtDNA variants, heteroplasmy, haplogroups and copy number were associated with ASD severity. Variability was found across biomarker studies primarily due to differences in collection and processing techniques as well as the intrinsic heterogeneity of the ASD population. Several studies reported alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in mothers of children with ASD and in neonates who develop ASD. Treatments targeting mitochondria, particularly carnitine and ubiquinol, appear beneficial in ASD. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD and common physiological abnormalities in individuals with ASD including gastrointestinal disorders, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction is outlined. Several subtypes of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are discussed, including one related to neurodevelopmental regression, another related to alterations in microbiome metabolites, and another related to elevations in acyl-carnitines. Mechanisms linking abnormal mitochondrial function with alterations in prenatal brain development and postnatal brain function are outlined. Given the multisystem complexity of some individuals with ASD, this review presents evidence for the mitochondria being central to ASD by contributing to abnormalities in brain development, cognition, and comorbidities such as immune and gastrointestinal dysfunction as well as neurodevelopmental regression. A diagnostic approach to identify mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD is outlined. From this evidence, it is clear that many individuals with ASD have alterations in mitochondrial function which may need to be addressed in order to achieve optimal clinical outcomes. The fact that alterations in mitochondrial metabolism may be found during pregnancy and early in the life of individuals who eventually develop ASD provides promise for early life predictive biomarkers of ASD. Further studies may improve the understanding of the role of the mitochondria in ASD by better defining subgroups and understanding the molecular mechanisms driving some of the unique changes found in mitochondrial function in those with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | | | - Patrick J McCarty
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70113, United States of America.
| | | | - Adrienne C Scheck
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States of America.
| | - Daniel A Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA
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Zheng L, Jiao Y, Zhong H, Tan Y, Yin Y, Liu Y, Liu D, Wu M, Wang G, Huang J, Wang P, Qin M, Wang M, Xiao Y, Lv T, Luo Y, Hu H, Hou ST, Kui L. Human-derived fecal microbiota transplantation alleviates social deficits of the BTBR mouse model of autism through a potential mechanism involving vitamin B 6 metabolism. mSystems 2024; 9:e0025724. [PMID: 38780265 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00257-24] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficiencies and stereotypic behaviors influenced by hereditary and/or environmental risk factors. There are currently no approved medications for treating the core symptoms of ASD. Human fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as a potential intervention to improve autistic symptoms, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we evaluated the effects of human-derived FMT on behavioral and multi-omics profiles of the BTBR mice, an established model for ASD. FMT effectively alleviated the social deficits in the BTBR mice and normalized their distinct plasma metabolic profile, notably reducing the elevated long-chain acylcarnitines. Integrative analysis linked these phenotypic changes to specific Bacteroides species and vitamin B6 metabolism. Indeed, vitamin B6 supplementation improved the social behaviors in BTBR mice. Collectively, these findings shed new light on the interplay between FMT and vitamin B6 metabolism and revealed a potential mechanism underlying the therapeutic role of FMT in ASD.IMPORTANCEAccumulating evidence supports the beneficial effects of human fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the precise mechanism by which FMT induces a shift in the microbiota and leads to symptom improvement remains incompletely understood. This study integrated data from colon-content metagenomics, colon-content metabolomics, and plasma metabolomics to investigate the effects of FMT treatment on the BTBR mouse model for ASD. The analysis linked the amelioration of social deficits following FMT treatment to the restoration of mitochondrial function and the modulation of vitamin B6 metabolism. Bacterial species and compounds with beneficial roles in vitamin B6 metabolism and mitochondrial function may further contribute to improving FMT products and designing novel therapies for ASD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifeng Zheng
- Brain Research Centre and Department of Neuroscience, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Xbiome Co. Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinming Jiao
- Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haolin Zhong
- Brain Research Centre and Department of Neuroscience, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yan Tan
- Xbiome Co. Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | | | | | - Ding Liu
- Xbiome Co. Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Manli Wu
- Xbiome Co. Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Guoyun Wang
- Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Ping Wang
- Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, China
| | - Meirong Qin
- Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mingbang Wang
- Microbiome Therapy Center, South China Hospital, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Center for Children's Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- Department of Hematology, Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tiying Lv
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangzi Luo
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Han Hu
- Xbiome Co. Ltd., Shenzhen, China
| | - Sheng-Tao Hou
- Brain Research Centre and Department of Neuroscience, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ling Kui
- Shenzhen Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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White CJ, Gausepohl AM, Wilkins HN, Eberhard CD, Orsburn BC, Williams DW. Spatial Heterogeneity of Brain Lipids in SIV-Infected Macaques Treated with Antiretroviral Therapy. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2024; 35:185-196. [PMID: 38288997 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.3c00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to promote neurocognitive impairment, mood disorders, and brain atrophy, even in the modern era of viral suppression. Brain lipids are vulnerable to HIV-associated energetic strain and may contribute to HIV-associated neurologic dysfunction due to alterations in lipid breakdown and structural lipid composition. HIV neuropathology is region dependent, yet there has not been comprehensive characterization of the spatial heterogeneity of brain lipids during infection that possibly impacts neurologic function. To address this gap, we evaluated the spatial lipid distribution using matrix laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) across four brain regions (parietal cortex, midbrain, thalamus, and temporal cortex), as well as the kidney for a peripheral tissue control, in a simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-infected rhesus macaque treated with a course of antiretroviral therapies (ARTs). We assessed lipids indicative of fat breakdown [acylcarnitines (CARs)] and critical structural lipids [phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs)] across fatty acid chain lengths and degrees of unsaturation. CARs with very long-chain, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were more abundant across all brain regions than shorter chain, saturated, or monounsaturated species. We observed distinct brain lipid distribution patterns for the CARs and PCs. However, no clear expression patterns emerged for PEs. Surprisingly, the kidney was nearly devoid of ions corresponding to PUFAs common in brain. PEs and PCs with PUFAs had little intensity and less density than other species, and only one CAR species was observed in kidney at high intensity. Overall, our study demonstrates the stark variation in structural phospholipids and lipid-energetic intermediates present in the virally suppressed SIV-macaque brain. These findings may be useful for identifying regional vulnerabilities to damage due to brain lipid changes in people with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory J White
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Andrew M Gausepohl
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Hannah N Wilkins
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Colten D Eberhard
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Benjamin C Orsburn
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Dionna W Williams
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
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Vacy K, Thomson S, Moore A, Eisner A, Tanner S, Pham C, Saffery R, Mansell T, Burgner D, Collier F, Vuillermin P, O'Hely M, Boon WC, Meikle P, Burugupalli S, Ponsonby AL. Cord blood lipid correlation network profiles are associated with subsequent attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder symptoms at 2 years: a prospective birth cohort study. EBioMedicine 2024; 100:104949. [PMID: 38199043 PMCID: PMC10825361 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104949] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental conditions with early life origins. Alterations in blood lipids have been linked to ADHD and ASD; however, prospective early life data are limited. This study examined (i) associations between the cord blood lipidome and ADHD/ASD symptoms at 2 years of age, (ii) associations between prenatal and perinatal predictors of ADHD/ASD symptoms and cord blood lipidome, and (iii) mediation by the cord blood lipidome. METHODS From the Barwon Infant Study cohort (1074 mother-child pairs, 52.3% male children), child circulating lipid levels at birth were analysed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. These were clustered into lipid network modules via Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis. Associations between lipid modules and ADHD/ASD symptoms at 2 years, assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist, were explored via linear regression analyses. Mediation analysis identified indirect effects of prenatal and perinatal risk factors on ADHD/ASD symptoms through lipid modules. FINDINGS The acylcarnitine lipid module is associated with both ADHD and ASD symptoms at 2 years of age. Risk factors of these outcomes such as low income, Apgar score, and maternal inflammation were partly mediated by higher birth acylcarnitine levels. Other cord blood lipid profiles were also associated with ADHD and ASD symptoms. INTERPRETATION This study highlights that elevated cord blood birth acylcarnitine levels, either directly or as a possible marker of disrupted cell energy metabolism, are on the causal pathway of prenatal and perinatal risk factors for ADHD and ASD symptoms in early life. FUNDING The foundational work and infrastructure for the BIS was sponsored by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Deakin University, and Barwon Health. Subsequent funding was secured from the Minderoo Foundation, the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (ENDpoiNTs: No 825759), National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC) and Agency for Science, Technology and Research Singapore [APP1149047], The William and Vera Ellen Houston Memorial Trust Fund (via HOMER Hack), The Shepherd Foundation, The Jack Brockhoff Foundation, the Scobie & Claire McKinnon Trust, the Shane O'Brien Memorial Asthma Foundation, the Our Women Our Children's Fund Raising Committee Barwon Health, the Rotary Club of Geelong, the Ilhan Food Allergy Foundation, Geelong Medical and Hospital Benefits Association, Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd, the Percy Baxter Charitable Trust, and Perpetual Trustees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Vacy
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Sarah Thomson
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Archer Moore
- Melbourne School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Alex Eisner
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Sam Tanner
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Cindy Pham
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Toby Mansell
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - David Burgner
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Fiona Collier
- Child Health Research Unit, Barwon Health, Geelong 3220, Australia; School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
| | - Peter Vuillermin
- Child Health Research Unit, Barwon Health, Geelong 3220, Australia
| | - Martin O'Hely
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3010, Australia; School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
| | - Wah Chin Boon
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Peter Meikle
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne 3004, Australia; Baker Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Satvika Burugupalli
- Metabolomics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne 3004, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville 3010, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia.
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Xiao Y, Pietzner A, Rohwer N, Jung A, Rothe M, Weylandt KH, Elbelt U. Bioactive oxylipins in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with and without hypertriglyceridemia. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1195247. [PMID: 37664847 PMCID: PMC10472135 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1195247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Dyslipidemia, in particular elevated triglycerides (TGs) contribute to increased cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this pilot study we aimed to assess how increased TGs affect hepatic fat as well as polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism and oxylipin formation in T2DM patients. Methods 40 patients with T2DM were characterized analyzing routine lipid blood parameters, as well as medical history and clinical characteristics. Patients were divided into a hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) group (TG ≥ 1.7mmol/l) and a normal TG group with TGs within the reference range (TG < 1.7mmol/l). Profiles of PUFAs and their oxylipins in plasma were measured by gas chromatography and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Transient elastography (TE) was used to assess hepatic fat content measured as controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) (in dB/m) and the degree of liver fibrosis measured as stiffness (in kPa). Results Mean value of hepatic fat content measured as CAP as well as body mass index (BMI) were significantly higher in patients with high TGs as compared to those with normal TGs, and correlation analysis showed higher concentrations of TGs with increasing CAP and BMI scores in patients with T2DM. There were profound differences in plasma oxylipin levels between these two groups. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) and lipoxygenase (LOX) metabolites were generally more abundant in the HTG group, especially those derived from arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), γ-linolenic acid (γ-LA), and α-linolenic acid (α-LA), and a strong correlation between TG levels and plasma metabolites from different pathways was observed. Conclusions In adult patients with T2DM, elevated TGs were associated with increased liver fat and BMI. Furthermore, these patients also had significantly higher plasma levels of CYP- and LOX- oxylipins, which could be a novel indicator of increased inflammatory pathway activity, as well as a novel target to dampen this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Xiao
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolism and Oncology, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
- Medical Department, Division of Psychosomatic Medicine, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Pietzner
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolism and Oncology, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology, Brandenburg Medical School and University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Nadine Rohwer
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolism and Oncology, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology, Brandenburg Medical School and University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Molecular Toxicology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Adelheid Jung
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolism and Oncology, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
| | | | - Karsten H. Weylandt
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolism and Oncology, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology, Brandenburg Medical School and University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Ulf Elbelt
- Division of Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology, Metabolism and Oncology, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
- Medical Department, Division of Psychosomatic Medicine, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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De Marzio M, Lasky-Su J, Chu SH, Prince N, Litonjua AA, Weiss ST, Kelly RS, Glass KR. The metabolic role of vitamin D in children's neurodevelopment: a network study. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.23.546277. [PMID: 37425858 PMCID: PMC10327084 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.23.546277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with various proposed environmental risk factors and a rapidly increasing prevalence. Mounting evidence suggests a potential role of vitamin D deficiency in ASD pathogenesis, though the causal mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here we investigate the impact of vitamin D on child neurodevelopment through an integrative network approach that combines metabolomic profiles, clinical traits, and neurodevelopmental data from a pediatric cohort. Our results show that vitamin D deficiency is associated with changes in the metabolic networks of tryptophan, linoleic, and fatty acid metabolism. These changes correlate with distinct ASD-related phenotypes, including delayed communication skills and respiratory dysfunctions. Additionally, our analysis suggests the kynurenine and serotonin sub-pathways may mediate the effect of vitamin D on early childhood communication development. Altogether, our findings provide metabolome-wide insights into the potential of vitamin D as a therapeutic option for ASD and other communication disorders.
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Nabi SU, Rehman MU, Arafah A, Taifa S, Khan IS, Khan A, Rashid S, Jan F, Wani HA, Ahmad SF. Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders by Mitochondrial-targeted Drug: Future of Neurological Diseases Therapeutics. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1042-1064. [PMID: 36411568 PMCID: PMC10286588 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221121095618] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex etiology that might involve environmental and genetic variables. Recently, some epidemiological studies conducted in various parts of the world have estimated a significant increase in the prevalence of autism, with 1 in every 59 children having some degree of autism. Since autism has been associated with other clinical abnormalities, there is every possibility that a sub-cellular component may be involved in the progression of autism. The organelle remains a focus based on mitochondria's functionality and metabolic role in cells. Furthermore, the mitochondrial genome is inherited maternally and has its DNA and organelle that remain actively involved during embryonic development; these characteristics have linked mitochondrial dysfunction to autism. Although rapid stride has been made in autism research, there are limited studies that have made particular emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and autism. Accumulating evidence from studies conducted at cellular and sub-cellular levels has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction's role in autism is more than expected. The present review has attempted to describe the risk factors of autism, the role of mitochondria in the progression of the disease, oxidative damage as a trigger point to initiate mitochondrial damage, genetic determinants of the disease, possible pathogenic pathways and therapeutic regimen in vogue and the developmental stage. Furthermore, in the present review, an attempt has been made to include the novel therapeutic regimens under investigation at different clinical trial stages and their potential possibility to emerge as promising drugs against ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Showkat Ul Nabi
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Muneeb U. Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azher Arafah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Taifa
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Iqra Shafi Khan
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Jan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CT University, Ludhiana, Ferozepur Road, Punjab, 142024, India
| | - Hilal Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biochemistry, Government Degree College Sumbal, Bandipora, J&K, India
| | - Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Balasubramanian R, Vinod PK. Inferring miRNA sponge modules across major neuropsychiatric disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1009662. [PMID: 36385761 PMCID: PMC9650411 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1009662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of non-coding RNAs in neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs) is an emerging field of study. The long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are shown to sponge the microRNAs (miRNAs) from interacting with their target mRNAs. Investigating the sponge activity of lncRNAs in NPDs will provide further insights into biological mechanisms and help identify disease biomarkers. In this study, a large-scale inference of the lncRNA-related miRNA sponge network of pan-neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia (SCZ), and bipolar disorder (BD), was carried out using brain transcriptomic (RNA-Seq) data. The candidate miRNA sponge modules were identified based on the co-expression pattern of non-coding RNAs, sharing of miRNA binding sites, and sensitivity canonical correlation. miRNA sponge modules are associated with chemical synaptic transmission, nervous system development, metabolism, immune system response, ribosomes, and pathways in cancer. The identified modules showed similar and distinct gene expression patterns depending on the neuropsychiatric condition. The preservation of miRNA sponge modules was shown in the independent brain and blood-transcriptomic datasets of NPDs. We also identified miRNA sponging lncRNAs that may be potential diagnostic biomarkers for NPDs. Our study provides a comprehensive resource on miRNA sponging in NPDs.
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Kim HY, Lee YJ, Kim SJ, Lee JD, Kim S, Ko MJ, Kim JW, Shin CY, Kim KB. Metabolomics profiling of valproic acid-induced symptoms resembling autism spectrum disorders using 1H NMR spectral analysis in rat model. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2022; 85:1-13. [PMID: 34445937 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2021.1967821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been implicated in the manifestation of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-like behavioral and functional changes both in human and rodents including mice and rats. The objective of this study was to determine metabolomics profiling and biomarkers related to VPA-induced symptoms resembling ASD using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectral data. VPA was administered to pregnant rats at gestation day 12.5 and effects measured subsequently in male 4-week-old offspring pups. The sociability of VPA-treated animals was significantly diminished and exhibited ASD-like behavior as evidenced by reduction of social adaptation disorder and lack of social interactions. To find biomarkers related to ASD, the following were collected prefrontal brain cortices, urine bladder and blood samples directly from heart puncture. In all samples, principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) displayed significant clustering pattern differences between control and treated groups. Valine, taurine, myo-inositol, 3-hydroxybutyrate and 1,3-dihydroxyacetone were significantly decreased in brain cortices in treated rats. Serum metabolites of glucose, creatine phosphate, lactate, glutamine and threonine were significantly increased in VPA-administered animals. Urinary metabolites of pimelate, 3-hydroxyisovalerate and valerate were significantly reduced in VPA-treated rat, whereas galactose and galactonate levels were elevated. Various metabolites were associated with mitochondrial dysfunction metabolism and central nervous system disorders. Data demonstrated that VPA-induced alterations in endogenous metabolites of serum, urine, and brain cortex which might prove useful as biomarkers for symptoms resembling ASD as a model of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyang Yeon Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
- Center for Human Risk Assessment, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Jae Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Jae Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Dae Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
- Center for Human Risk Assessment, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam Republic of Korea
| | - Suhkmann Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute for Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan Republic of Korea
| | - Mee Jung Ko
- Department Of Neuroscience, School Of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Woon Kim
- Department Of Neuroscience, School Of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Young Shin
- Department Of Neuroscience, School Of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Bong Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, Republic of Korea
- Center for Human Risk Assessment, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam Republic of Korea
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10
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Duque ALRF, Demarqui FM, Santoni MM, Zanelli CF, Adorno MAT, Milenkovic D, Mesa V, Sivieri K. Effect of probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic on the gut microbiota of autistic children using an in vitro gut microbiome model. Food Res Int 2021; 149:110657. [PMID: 34600659 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Imbalances in gut microbiota composition occur in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The administration of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics is emerging as a potential and promising strategy for regulating the gut microbiota and improving ASD-related symptoms. We first investigated the survival of the probiotics Limosilactobacillus (L.) reuteri and Bifidobacterium (B.) longum alone, mixed and combined with a galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Next, we evaluated the impact of probiotics (L. reuteri + B. longum), prebiotic (GOS), and synbiotic (L. reuteri + B. longum + GOS) on gut microbiota composition and metabolism of children with ASD using an in vitro fermentation model (SHIME®). The combination of L. reuteri, B. longum, and GOS showed elevated gastrointestinal resistance. The probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic treatments resulted in a positive modulation of the gut microbiota and metabolic activity of children with ASD. More specifically, the probiotic treatment increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, while the prebiotic treatment increased the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium and decreased the relative abundance of Lachnoclostridium. Changes in microbial metabolism were associated with increased short-chain fatty acid concentrations and reduced ammonium levels, particularly in the prebiotic and synbiotic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luiza Rocha Faria Duque
- Department of Food and Nutrition, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Manaia Demarqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Mariana Marchi Santoni
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Cleslei Fernando Zanelli
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Maria Angela Tallarico Adorno
- Department of Hydraulics and Sanitation, School of Engineering of São Carlos, University of São Paulo (USP), São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Dragan Milenkovic
- Department of Internal Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, United States; INRAE, UNH, Université Clermont Auvergne, St Genes Champanelle, France
| | - Victoria Mesa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Paris University, Paris, France; Food and Human Nutrition Research Group, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Katia Sivieri
- Department of Food and Nutrition, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil.
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11
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White CJ, Ellis JM, Wolfgang MJ. The role of ethanolamine phosphate phospholyase in regulation of astrocyte lipid homeostasis. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:100830. [PMID: 34048714 PMCID: PMC8233209 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary lipid composition has been shown to impact brain morphology, brain development, and neurologic function. However, how diet uniquely regulates brain lipid homeostasis compared with lipid homeostasis in peripheral tissues remains largely uncharacterized. To evaluate the lipid response to dietary changes in the brain, we assessed actively translating mRNAs in astrocytes and neurons across multiple diets. From this data, ethanolamine phosphate phospholyase (Etnppl) was identified as an astrocyte-specific fasting-induced gene. Etnppl catabolizes phosphoethanolamine (PEtN), a prominent headgroup precursor in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) also found in other classes of neurologically relevant lipid species. Altered Etnppl expression has also previously been associated with humans with mood disorders. We evaluated the relevance of Etnppl in maintaining brain lipid homeostasis by characterizing Etnppl across development and in coregulation with PEtN-relevant genes, as well as determining the impact to the brain lipidome after Etnppl loss. We found that Etnppl expression dramatically increased during a critical window of early brain development in mice and was also induced by glucocorticoids. Using a constitutive knockout of Etnppl (EtnpplKO), we did not observe robust changes in expression of PEtN-related genes. However, loss of Etnppl altered the phospholipid profile in the brain, resulting in increased total abundance of PE and in polyunsaturated fatty acids within PE and phosphatidylcholine species in the brain. Together, these data suggest that brain phospholipids are regulated by the phospholyase action of the enzyme Etnppl, which is induced by dietary fasting in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory J White
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jessica M Ellis
- Department of Physiology, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael J Wolfgang
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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12
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Mitochondrial Fatty Acid β-Oxidation and Resveratrol Effect in Fibroblasts from Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060510. [PMID: 34199819 PMCID: PMC8229571 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have an increase in blood acyl-carnitine (AC) concentrations indicating a mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation (mtFAO) impairment. However, there are no data on systematic mtFAO analyses in ASD. We analyzed tritiated palmitate oxidation rates in fibroblasts from patients with ASD before and after resveratrol (RSV) treatment, according to methods used for the diagnosis of congenital defects in mtFAO. ASD participants (N = 10, 60%; male; mean age (SD) 7.4 (3.2) years) were divided in two age-equivalent groups based on the presence (N = 5) or absence (N = 5) of elevated blood AC levels. In addition, electron transport chain (ETC) activity in fibroblasts and muscle biopsies and clinical characteristics were compared between the ASD groups. Baseline fibroblast mtFAO was not significantly different in patients in comparison with control values. However, ASD patients with elevated AC exhibited significantly decreased mtFAO rates, muscle ETC complex II activity, and fibroblast ETC Complex II/III activity (p < 0.05), compared with patients without an AC signature. RSV significantly increased the mtFAO activity in all study groups (p = 0.001). The highest mtFAO changes in response to RSV were observed in fibroblasts from patients with more severe symptoms on the Social Responsiveness Scale total (p = 0.001) and Awareness, Cognition, Communication and Motivation subscales (all p < 0.01). These findings suggested recognition of an ASD patient subset characterized by an impaired mtFAO flux associated with abnormal blood AC. The study elucidated that RSV significantly increased fibroblast mtFAO irrespective of plasma AC status, and the highest changes to RSV effects on mtFAO were observed in the more severely affected patients.
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13
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Okay K, Varış PÜ, Miral S, Ekinci B, Yaraş T, Karakülah G, Oktay Y. Alternative splicing and gene co-expression network-based analysis of dizygotic twins with autism-spectrum disorder and their parents. Genomics 2021; 113:2561-2571. [PMID: 34087420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with high heritability, however, understanding the complexity of the underlying genetic basis has proven to be a challenging task. We hypothesized that dissecting the aberrations in alternative splicing (AS) and their effects on expression networks might provide insight. Therefore, we performed AS and co-expression analyses of total RNA isolated from Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) of two pairs of dizygotic (DZ) twins with non-syndromic autism and their parents. We identified 183 differential AS events in 146 genes, seven of them being Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) Category 1-3 genes, three of which had previously been reported to be alternatively spliced in ASD post-mortem brains. Gene co-expression analysis identified 7 modules with 513 genes, 5 of which were SFARI Category 1 or Category 2 genes. Among differentially AS genes within the modules, ZNF322 and NR4A1 could be potentially interesting targets for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaan Okay
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Pelin Ünal Varış
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Barış Psychiatric Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Süha Miral
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Burcu Ekinci
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tutku Yaraş
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gökhan Karakülah
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Yavuz Oktay
- Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey; Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University, Balçova, Izmir, Turkey.
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14
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Cross-sectional investigation of insulin resistance in youths with autism spectrum disorder. Any role for reduced brain glucose metabolism? Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:229. [PMID: 33879765 PMCID: PMC8058067 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01345-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an etiologically heterogeneous disorder. Dysfunctions of the intermediate metabolism have been described in some patients. We speculate these metabolic abnormalities are associated with brain insulin resistance (IR), i.e., the reduced glucose metabolism at the level of the nervous central system. The Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) is very often used in population studies as estimate of peripheral IR and it has been recently recognized as proxy of brain IR. We investigated HOMA-IR in 60 ASD patients aged 4-18 years and 240 healthy controls, also aged 4-18 years, but unmatched for age, sex, body weight, or body mass index (BMI). At multivariable linear regression model, the HOMA-IR was 0.31 unit higher in ASD individuals than in controls, after having adjusted for sex, age, BMI z-score category, and lipids that are factors known to influence HOMA-IR. Findings of this preliminary study suggest it is worth investigating brain glucose metabolism in larger population of patients with ASD by using gold standard technique. The recognition of a reduced glucose metabolism in some areas of the brain as marker of autism might have tremendous impact on our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of the disease and in terms of public health.
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15
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Potential Role of L-Carnitine in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10061202. [PMID: 33805796 PMCID: PMC8000371 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10061202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
L-carnitine plays an important role in the functioning of the central nervous system, and especially in the mitochondrial metabolism of fatty acids. Altered carnitine metabolism, abnormal fatty acid metabolism in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been documented. ASD is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition that is usually diagnosed in early childhood. Patients with ASD require careful classification as this heterogeneous clinical category may include patients with an intellectual disability or high functioning, epilepsy, language impairments, or associated Mendelian genetic conditions. L-carnitine participates in the long-chain oxidation of fatty acids in the brain, stimulates acetylcholine synthesis (donor of the acyl groups), stimulates expression of growth-associated protein-43, prevents cell apoptosis and neuron damage and stimulates neurotransmission. Determination of L-carnitine in serum/plasma and analysis of acylcarnitines in a dried blood spot may be useful in ASD diagnosis and treatment. Changes in the acylcarnitine profiles may indicate potential mitochondrial dysfunctions and abnormal fatty acid metabolism in ASD children. L-carnitine deficiency or deregulation of L-carnitine metabolism in ASD is accompanied by disturbances of other metabolic pathways, e.g., Krebs cycle, the activity of respiratory chain complexes, indicative of mitochondrial dysfunction. Supplementation of L-carnitine may be beneficial to alleviate behavioral and cognitive symptoms in ASD patients.
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16
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Mechanistic Insights into Side Effects of Troglitazone and Rosiglitazone Using a Novel Inverse Molecular Docking Protocol. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13030315. [PMID: 33670968 PMCID: PMC7997210 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13030315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thiazolidinediones form drugs that treat insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Troglitazone represents the first drug from this family, which was removed from use by the FDA due to its hepatotoxicity. As an alternative, rosiglitazone was developed, but it was under the careful watch of FDA for a long time due to suspicion, that it causes cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure and stroke. We applied a novel inverse molecular docking protocol to discern the potential protein targets of both drugs. Troglitazone and rosiglitazone were docked into predicted binding sites of >67,000 protein structures from the Protein Data Bank and examined. Several new potential protein targets with successfully docked troglitazone and rosiglitazone were identified. The focus was devoted to human proteins so that existing or new potential side effects could be explained or proposed. Certain targets of troglitazone such as 3-oxo-5-beta-steroid 4-dehydrogenase, neutrophil collagenase, stromelysin-1, and VLCAD were pinpointed, which could explain its hepatoxicity, with additional ones indicating that its application could lead to the treatment/development of cancer. Results for rosiglitazone discerned its interaction with members of the matrix metalloproteinase family, which could lead to cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The concerning cardiovascular side effects of rosiglitazone could also be explained. We firmly believe that our results deepen the mechanistic understanding of the side effects of both drugs, and potentially with further development and research maybe even help to minimize them. On the other hand, the novel inverse molecular docking protocol on the other hand carries the potential to develop into a standard tool to predict possible cross-interactions of drug candidates potentially leading to adverse side effects.
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17
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Mepham JR, MacFabe DF, Boon FH, Foley KA, Cain DP, Ossenkopp KP. Examining the non-spatial pretraining effect on a water maze spatial learning task in rats treated with multiple intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusions of propionic acid: Contributions to a rodent model of ASD. Behav Brain Res 2021; 403:113140. [PMID: 33508348 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Propionic acid (PPA) is produced by enteric gut bacteria and is a dietary short chain fatty acid. Intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusions of PPA in rodents have been shown to produce behavioural changes, including adverse effects on cognition, similar to those seen in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Previous research has shown that repeated ICV infusions of PPA result in impaired spatial learning in a Morris water maze (MWM) as evidenced by increased search latencies, fewer direct and circle swims, and more time spent in the periphery of the maze than control rats. In the current study rats were first given non-spatial pretraining (NSP) in the water maze in order to familiarize the animals with the general requirements of the non-spatial aspects of the task before spatial training was begun. Then the effects of ICV infusions of PPA on acquisition of spatial learning were examined. PPA treated rats failed to show the positive effects of the non-spatial pretraining procedure, relative to controls, as evidenced by increased search latencies, longer distances travelled, fewer direct and circle swims, and more time spent in the periphery of the maze than PBS controls. Thus, PPA treatment blocked the effects of the pretraining procedure, likely by impairing sensorimotor components or memory of the pretraining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Mepham
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Derrick F MacFabe
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Francis H Boon
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly A Foley
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Donald P Cain
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Klaus-Peter Ossenkopp
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
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18
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Mussap M, Siracusano M, Noto A, Fattuoni C, Riccioni A, Rajula HSR, Fanos V, Curatolo P, Barberini L, Mazzone L. The Urine Metabolome of Young Autistic Children Correlates with Their Clinical Profile Severity. Metabolites 2020; 10:metabo10110476. [PMID: 33238400 PMCID: PMC7700197 DOI: 10.3390/metabo10110476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism diagnosis is moving from the identification of common inherited genetic variants to a systems biology approach. The aims of the study were to explore metabolic perturbations in autism, to investigate whether the severity of autism core symptoms may be associated with specific metabolic signatures; and to examine whether the urine metabolome discriminates severe from mild-to-moderate restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors. We enrolled 57 children aged 2–11 years; thirty-one with idiopathic autism and twenty-six neurotypical (NT), matched for age and ethnicity. The urine metabolome was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The urinary metabolome of autistic children was largely distinguishable from that of NT children; food selectivity induced further significant metabolic differences. Severe autism spectrum disorder core deficits were marked by high levels of metabolites resulting from diet, gut dysbiosis, oxidative stress, tryptophan metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction. The hierarchical clustering algorithm generated two metabolic clusters in autistic children: 85–90% of children with mild-to-moderate abnormal behaviors fell in cluster II. Our results open up new perspectives for the more general understanding of the correlation between the clinical phenotype of autistic children and their urine metabolome. Adipic acid, palmitic acid, and 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-3-hydroxypropanoic acid can be proposed as candidate biomarkers of autism severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Mussap
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (H.S.R.R.); (V.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-070-51093403
| | - Martina Siracusano
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Antonio Noto
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (A.N.); (L.B.)
| | - Claudia Fattuoni
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy;
| | - Assia Riccioni
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, System Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University Hospital of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Hema Sekhar Reddy Rajula
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (H.S.R.R.); (V.F.)
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (H.S.R.R.); (V.F.)
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, System Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University Hospital of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Luigi Barberini
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (A.N.); (L.B.)
| | - Luigi Mazzone
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, System Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University Hospital of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (L.M.)
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19
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Usui N, Iwata K, Miyachi T, Takagai S, Wakusawa K, Nara T, Tsuchiya KJ, Matsumoto K, Kurita D, Kameno Y, Wakuda T, Takebayashi K, Iwata Y, Fujioka T, Hirai T, Toyoshima M, Ohnishi T, Toyota T, Maekawa M, Yoshikawa T, Maekawa M, Nakamura K, Tsujii M, Sugiyama T, Mori N, Matsuzaki H. VLDL-specific increases of fatty acids in autism spectrum disorder correlate with social interaction. EBioMedicine 2020; 58:102917. [PMID: 32739868 PMCID: PMC7393524 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.102917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abnormalities of lipid metabolism contributing to the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pathogenesis have been suggested, but the mechanisms are not fully understood. We aimed to characterize the lipid metabolism in ASD and to explore a biomarker for clinical evaluation. METHODS An age-matched case-control study was designed. Lipidomics was conducted using the plasma samples from 30 children with ASD compared to 30 typical developmental control (TD) children. Large-scale lipoprotein analyses were also conducted using the serum samples from 152 children with ASD compared to 122 TD children. Data comparing ASD to TD subjects were evaluated using univariate (Mann-Whitney test) and multivariate analyses (conditional logistic regression analysis) for main analyses using cofounders (diagnosis, sex, age, height, weight, and BMI), Spearman rank correlation coefficient, and discriminant analyses. FINDINGS Forty-eight significant metabolites involved in lipid biosynthesis and metabolism, oxidative stress, and synaptic function were identified in the plasma of ASD children by lipidomics. Among these, increased fatty acids (FAs), such as omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6), showed correlations with clinical social interaction score and ASD diagnosis. Specific reductions of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and apoprotein B (APOB) in serum of ASD children also were found by large-scale lipoprotein analysis. VLDL-specific reduction in ASD was correlated with APOB, indicating VLDL-specific dyslipidaemia associated with APOB in ASD children. INTERPRETATION Our results demonstrated that the increases in FAs correlated positively with social interaction are due to VLDL-specific degradation, providing novel insights into the lipid metabolism underlying ASD pathophysiology. FUNDING This study was supported mainly by MEXT, Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyoshi Usui
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3, Matsuokashimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Life Science Innovation Center, University of Fukui, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Center for Medical Research and Education, and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
| | - Keiko Iwata
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3, Matsuokashimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Life Science Innovation Center, University of Fukui, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Taishi Miyachi
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya City University Medical School, Aichi 467-8601, Japan
| | - Shu Takagai
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Keisuke Wakusawa
- Department of Rehabilitation, Miyagi Children's Hospital, Miyagi 989-3126, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nara
- Department of Rehabilitation, Miyagi Children's Hospital, Miyagi 989-3126, Japan
| | - Kenji J Tsuchiya
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Kaori Matsumoto
- Graduate School of Psychology, Kanazawa Institute of Technology, Ishikawa 921-8054, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kurita
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kameno
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Wakuda
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Kiyokazu Takebayashi
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yasuhide Iwata
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurology, Fukude Nishi Hospital, Shizuoka 437-1216, Japan
| | - Toru Fujioka
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3, Matsuokashimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takaharu Hirai
- Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Manabu Toyoshima
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychiatry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Ohnishi
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychiatry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Tomoko Toyota
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychiatry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Motoko Maekawa
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychiatry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Takeo Yoshikawa
- Laboratory for Molecular Psychiatry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Masato Maekawa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Nakamura
- Department of Psychiatry, Hirosaki University School of Medicine, Aomori 036-8562, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Tsujii
- School of Contemporary Sociology, Chukyo University, Aichi 470-0393, Japan
| | - Toshiro Sugiyama
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3, Matsuokashimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| | - Norio Mori
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurology, Fukude Nishi Hospital, Shizuoka 437-1216, Japan
| | - Hideo Matsuzaki
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, University of Fukui, 23-3, Matsuokashimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan; Department of Child Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Life Science Innovation Center, University of Fukui, Fukui 910-1193, Japan.
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20
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Bukhari SI, Alfawaz H, Al-Dbass A, Bhat RS, Moubayed NMS, Bukhari W, Hassan SA, Merghani N, Elsamaligy S, El-Ansary A. Efficacy of Novavit in ameliorating the neurotoxicity of propionic acid. Transl Neurosci 2020; 11:134-146. [PMID: 33312719 PMCID: PMC7705989 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2020-0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress, abnormal fatty acid metabolism, and impaired gut microbiota play a serious role in the pathology of autism. The use of dietary supplements to improve the core symptoms of autism is a common therapeutic strategy. The present study analyzed the effects of oral supplementation with Novavit, a multi-ingredient supplement, on ameliorating oxidative stress and impaired lipid metabolism in a propionic acid (PPA)-induced rodent model of autism. Male western albino rats were divided into three groups. The first group is the control, the second group was given an oral neurotoxic dose of PPA (250 mg/kg body weight/day) for 3 days and then received buffered saline until the end of the experiment. The third group received Novavit (70 mg/kg body weight/day for 30 days after the 3-day PPA treatment). Markers of oxidative stress and impaired fatty acid metabolism were measured in brain homogenates obtained from each group. Novavit modulation of the gut microbiota was also evaluated. While PPA induced significant increases in lipid peroxides and 5-lipoxygenase, together with significantly decreased glutathione, and cyclooxygenase 2, oral supplementation with Novavit ameliorated PPA-induced oxidative stress and impaired fatty acid metabolism. Our results showed that the presence of multivitamins, coenzyme Q10, minerals, and colostrum, the major components of Novavit, protects against PPA-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah I. Bukhari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan Alfawaz
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food Science and Agriculture, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer Al-Dbass
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadine MS Moubayed
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wadha Bukhari
- Central Laboratory, Female Center for Medical Studies and Scientific Section, King Saud University, P O Box 22452, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Nada Merghani
- Central Laboratory, Female Center for Medical Studies and Scientific Section, King Saud University, P O Box 22452, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samar Elsamaligy
- Department of Pharamaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Laboratory, Female Center for Medical Studies and Scientific Section, King Saud University, P O Box 22452, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Therapeutic Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Egypt
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21
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White CJ, Lee J, Choi J, Chu T, Scafidi S, Wolfgang MJ. Determining the Bioenergetic Capacity for Fatty Acid Oxidation in the Mammalian Nervous System. Mol Cell Biol 2020; 40:e00037-20. [PMID: 32123009 PMCID: PMC7189099 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00037-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The metabolic state of the brain can greatly impact neurologic function. Evidence of this includes the therapeutic benefit of a ketogenic diet in neurologic diseases, including epilepsy. However, brain lipid bioenergetics remain largely uncharacterized. The existence, capacity, and relevance of mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) in the brain are highly controversial, with few genetic tools available to evaluate the question. We have provided evidence for the capacity of brain FAO using a pan-brain-specific conditional knockout (KO) mouse incapable of FAO due to the loss of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2, the product of an obligate gene for FAO (CPT2B-/-). Loss of central nervous system (CNS) FAO did not result in gross neuroanatomical changes or systemic differences in metabolism. Loss of CPT2 in the brain did not result in robustly impaired behavior. We demonstrate by unbiased and targeted metabolomics that the mammalian brain oxidizes a substantial quantity of long-chain fatty acids in vitro and in vivo Loss of CNS FAO results in robust accumulation of long-chain acylcarnitines in the brain, suggesting that the mammalian brain mobilizes fatty acids for their oxidation, irrespective of diet or metabolic state. Together, these data demonstrate that the mammalian brain oxidizes fatty acids under normal circumstances with little influence from or on peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory J White
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jieun Lee
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joseph Choi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tiffany Chu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Susanna Scafidi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael J Wolfgang
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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22
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ElObeid T, Moawad J, Shi Z. Importance of Nutrition Intervention in Autistic Patients. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:535-545. [PMID: 32006372 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Along with the issues of inflated social and financial burden associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), specific treatment for this disorder has also not been developed. Having a thorough look at previous trials done to treat autism, we find that nutrition intervention had been used frequently as a complementary form of therapy. Indeed, an early diagnosis of nutrition deficiency and metabolic disorders done concomitantly with accurate therapeutic interventions can be a cornerstone for improving cognitive and behavioral aptitudes of people with autism. Several studies have showed that increasing the intake of specific nutrients can reduce the symptoms and comorbidities associated with autism. Consequently, nutrition intervention and appropriate supplementation can be crucial in managing and treating autism. This paper will discuss recent literature on the significance of metabolic aspects in autistic disorder and highlight the influence of nutrition intervention on the symptoms of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahra ElObeid
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Joyce Moawad
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Zumin Shi
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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23
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Bene J, Szabo A, Komlósi K, Melegh B. Mass Spectrometric Analysis of L-carnitine and its Esters: Potential Biomarkers of Disturbances in Carnitine Homeostasis. Curr Mol Med 2020; 20:336-354. [PMID: 31729298 PMCID: PMC7231908 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666191113120828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE After a golden age of classic carnitine research three decades ago, the spread of mass spectrometry opened new perspectives and a much better understanding of the carnitine system is available nowadays. In the classic period, several human and animal studies were focused on various distinct physiological functions of this molecule and these revealed different aspects of carnitine homeostasis in normal and pathological conditions. Initially, the laboratory analyses were based on the classic or radioenzymatic assays, enabling only the determination of free and total carnitine levels and calculation of total carnitine esters' amount without any information on the composition of the acyl groups. The introduction of mass spectrometry allowed the measurement of free carnitine along with the specific and sensitive determination of different carnitine esters. Beyond basic research, mass spectrometry study of carnitine esters was introduced into the newborn screening program because of being capable to detect more than 30 metabolic disorders simultaneously. Furthermore, mass spectrometry measurements were performed to investigate different disease states affecting carnitine homeostasis, such as diabetes, chronic renal failure, celiac disease, cardiovascular diseases, autism spectrum disorder or inflammatory bowel diseases. RESULTS This article will review the recent advances in the field of carnitine research with respect to mass spectrometric analyses of acyl-carnitines in normal and various pathological states. CONCLUSION The growing number of publications using mass spectrometry as a tool to investigate normal physiological conditions or reveal potential biomarkers of primary and secondary carnitine deficiencies shows that this tool brought a new perspective to carnitine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Bene
- Department of Medical Genetics, Clinical Center, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Andras Szabo
- Department of Medical Genetics, Clinical Center, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Katalin Komlósi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Clinical Center, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Bela Melegh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Clinical Center, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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24
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Nuclear Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs) as Therapeutic Targets of Resveratrol for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081878. [PMID: 30995737 PMCID: PMC6515064 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by defective social communication and interaction and restricted, repetitive behavior with a complex, multifactorial etiology. Despite an increasing worldwide prevalence of ASD, there is currently no pharmacological cure to treat core symptoms of ASD. Clinical evidence and molecular data support the role of impaired mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in ASD. The recognition of defects in energy metabolism in ASD may be important for better understanding ASD and developing therapeutic intervention. The nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) α, δ, and γ are ligand-activated receptors with distinct physiological functions in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism, as well as inflammatory response. PPAR activation allows a coordinated up-regulation of numerous FAO enzymes, resulting in significant PPAR-driven increases in mitochondrial FAO flux. Resveratrol (RSV) is a polyphenolic compound which exhibits metabolic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, pointing to possible applications in ASD therapeutics. In this study, we review the evidence for the existing links between ASD and impaired mitochondrial FAO and review the potential implications for regulation of mitochondrial FAO in ASD by PPAR activators, including RSV.
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25
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Rose S, Niyazov DM, Rossignol DA, Goldenthal M, Kahler SG, Frye RE. Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Diagn Ther 2018; 22:571-593. [PMID: 30039193 PMCID: PMC6132446 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0352-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects ~ 2% of children in the United States. The etiology of ASD likely involves environmental factors triggering physiological abnormalities in genetically sensitive individuals. One of these major physiological abnormalities is mitochondrial dysfunction, which may affect a significant subset of children with ASD. Here we systematically review the literature on human studies of mitochondrial dysfunction related to ASD. Clinical aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD include unusual neurodevelopmental regression, especially if triggered by an inflammatory event, gastrointestinal symptoms, seizures, motor delays, fatigue and lethargy. Traditional biomarkers of mitochondrial disease are widely reported to be abnormal in ASD, but appear non-specific. Newer biomarkers include buccal cell enzymology, biomarkers of fatty acid metabolism, non-mitochondrial enzyme function, apoptosis markers and mitochondrial antibodies. Many genetic abnormalities are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD, including chromosomal abnormalities, mitochondrial DNA mutations and large-scale deletions, and mutations in both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial nuclear genes. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been described in immune and buccal cells, fibroblasts, muscle and gastrointestinal tissue and the brains of individuals with ASD. Several environmental factors, including toxicants, microbiome metabolites and an oxidized microenvironment are shown to modulate mitochondrial function in ASD tissues. Investigations of treatments for mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are promising but preliminary. The etiology of mitochondrial dysfunction and how to define it in ASD is currently unclear. However, preliminary evidence suggests that the mitochondria may be a fruitful target for treatment and prevention of ASD. Further research is needed to better understand the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Rose
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Dmitriy M Niyazov
- Section of Medical Genetics, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Michael Goldenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology Section, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stephen G Kahler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Division of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas St, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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26
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Martínez-Noël G, Luck K, Kühnle S, Desbuleux A, Szajner P, Galligan JT, Rodriguez D, Zheng L, Boyland K, Leclere F, Zhong Q, Hill DE, Vidal M, Howley PM. Network Analysis of UBE3A/E6AP-Associated Proteins Provides Connections to Several Distinct Cellular Processes. J Mol Biol 2018; 430:1024-1050. [PMID: 29426014 PMCID: PMC5866790 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2018.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Perturbations in activity and dosage of the UBE3A ubiquitin-ligase have been linked to Angelman syndrome and autism spectrum disorders. UBE3A was initially identified as the cellular protein hijacked by the human papillomavirus E6 protein to mediate the ubiquitylation of p53, a function critical to the oncogenic potential of these viruses. Although a number of substrates have been identified, the normal cellular functions and pathways affected by UBE3A are largely unknown. Previously, we showed that UBE3A associates with HERC2, NEURL4, and MAPK6/ERK3 in a high-molecular-weight complex of unknown function that we refer to as the HUN complex (HERC2, UBE3A, and NEURL4). In this study, the combination of two complementary proteomic approaches with a rigorous network analysis revealed cellular functions and pathways in which UBE3A and the HUN complex are involved. In addition to finding new UBE3A-associated proteins, such as MCM6, SUGT1, EIF3C, and ASPP2, network analysis revealed that UBE3A-associated proteins are connected to several fundamental cellular processes including translation, DNA replication, intracellular trafficking, and centrosome regulation. Our analysis suggests that UBE3A could be involved in the control and/or integration of these cellular processes, in some cases as a component of the HUN complex, and also provides evidence for crosstalk between the HUN complex and CAMKII interaction networks. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the cellular functions of UBE3A and its potential role in pathways that may be affected in Angelman syndrome, UBE3A-associated autism spectrum disorders, and human papillomavirus-associated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Martínez-Noël
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Katja Luck
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology (CCSB), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Simone Kühnle
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alice Desbuleux
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology (CCSB), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA; GIGA-R, University of Liège, Liège 4000, Belgium
| | - Patricia Szajner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Galligan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Diana Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Leon Zheng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kathleen Boyland
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Flavian Leclere
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Quan Zhong
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology (CCSB), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David E Hill
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology (CCSB), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Marc Vidal
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology (CCSB), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Peter M Howley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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27
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Wong S, Giulivi C. Autism, Mitochondria and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2017; 15:614-23. [PMID: 27071785 DOI: 10.2174/1871527315666160413122624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a growing concern with more than 1 in every 68 children affected in the United States by age 8. Limited scientific advances have been made regarding the etiology of autism, with general agreement that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to this disorder. OBJECTIVE To explore the link between exposure to PBDE, mitochondrial dysfunction and autism risk. RESULTS Perinatal exposures to PBDEs may contribute to the etiology or morbidity of ASD including mitochondrial dysfunction based on (i) their increased environmental abundance and human exposures, (ii) their activity towards implicated in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity including mitochondria, and (iii) their bioaccumulation in mitochondria. CONCLUSION In this review, we propose that PBDE, and possibly other environmental exposures, during child development can induce or compound mitochondrial dysfunction, which in conjunction with a dysregulated antioxidant response, increase a child's susceptibility of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cecilia Giulivi
- University of California, Department of Molecular Biosciences, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Dr., 3009 VetMed3B, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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28
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Cardoso C, Afonso C, Bandarra NM. Dietary DHA, bioaccessibility, and neurobehavioral development in children. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2017; 58:2617-2631. [PMID: 28665691 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2017.1338245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a key nutritional n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and needs to be supplied by the human diet. High levels of DHA intake appear to reduce the risk of depression, bipolar disorder, and mood disorders. On the basis of these connections between DHA and neurological health, this paper reviews what is currently known about DHA and children neurodevelopment as well as the benefits of DHA intake to prevention of autism and behavior disorders through a selective and representative revision of different papers ranging from pure observational studies to randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This review also highlights the issue of DHA bioaccessibility and its implications to the performance of studies. As main conclusions, it can be mentioned that high DHA intake may prevent autism disorder. However, more studies are required to strengthen the connection between autism and dietary DHA. Regarding behavioral disorders, the evidence is also contradictory, thereby raising the need of further studies. From all screened studies on autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and other disorders, it can be concluded that study samples should be larger for greater statistical significance and RCTs should be more carefully designed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cardoso
- a Department of Sea and Marine Resources , Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA, IP) , Rua Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, Lisbon , Portugal.,b CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research , University of Porto , Rua dos Bragas 289, Porto , Portugal
| | - Cláudia Afonso
- a Department of Sea and Marine Resources , Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA, IP) , Rua Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, Lisbon , Portugal.,b CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research , University of Porto , Rua dos Bragas 289, Porto , Portugal
| | - Narcisa M Bandarra
- a Department of Sea and Marine Resources , Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA, IP) , Rua Alfredo Magalhães Ramalho, Lisbon , Portugal.,b CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research , University of Porto , Rua dos Bragas 289, Porto , Portugal
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29
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Zou Y, Lu Q, Zheng D, Chu Z, Liu Z, Chen H, Ruan Q, Ge X, Zhang Z, Wang X, Lou W, Huang Y, Wang Y, Huang X, Liu Z, Xie W, Zhou Y, Yao P. Prenatal levonorgestrel exposure induces autism-like behavior in offspring through ERβ suppression in the amygdala. Mol Autism 2017; 8:46. [PMID: 28824796 PMCID: PMC5561609 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0159-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is now diagnosed in more than one out of 100 children and is biased towards males by a ratio of at least 4:1. Many possible explanations and potential causative factors have been reported, such as genetics, sex, and environmental factors, although the detailed mechanisms of ASD remain unclear. METHODS The dams were exposed through oral contraceptives to either vehicle control (VEH) alone, levonorgestrel (LNG) alone, ethinyl estradiol (EE) alone, or a combination of LNG/EE for 21 days during their pregnancy. The subsequent 10-week-old offspring were used for autism-like behavior testing, and the limbic tissues were isolated for analysis. In another experimental group, 8-week-old male offspring were treated by infusion of ERβ overexpression/knockdown lentivirus in the amygdala, and the offspring were analyzed after 2 weeks. RESULTS We show that prenatal exposure of either LNG alone or a LNG/EE combination, but not EE alone, results in suppression of ERβ (estrogen receptor β) and its target genes in the amygdala with autism-like behavior in male offspring, while there is a much smaller effect on female offspring. However, we find that there is no effect on the hippocampus and hypothalamus. Further investigation shows that ERβ suppression is due to LNG-mediated altered methylation on the ERβ promoter and results in tissue damage with oxidative stress and the dysfunction of mitochondria and fatty acid metabolism, which subsequently triggers autism-like behavior. Overexpression of ERβ in the amygdala completely restores LNG-induced ERβ suppression and autism-like behaviors in offspring, while ERβ knockdown mimics this effect, indicating that ERβ expression in the amygdala plays an important role in autism-like behavior development. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that prenatal levonorgestrel exposure induces autism-like behavior in offspring through ERβ suppression in the amygdala. To our knowledge, this is the first time the potential effect of oral contraceptives on the contribution of autism-like behavior in offspring has been discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanlin Zou
- Internal Medicine of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China.,Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaomei Lu
- Internal Medicine of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China.,Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Zheng
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China
| | - Zhigang Chu
- Institute of Burns, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060 People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyu Liu
- Internal Medicine of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China.,Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China
| | - Haijia Chen
- SALIAI Stem Cell Institute of Guangdong, Guangzhou SALIAI Stem Cell Science and Technology Co. LTD, Guangzhou, 510055 People's Republic of China
| | - Qiongfang Ruan
- Institute of Burns, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060 People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohu Ge
- SALIAI Stem Cell Institute of Guangdong, Guangzhou SALIAI Stem Cell Science and Technology Co. LTD, Guangzhou, 510055 People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyun Zhang
- Internal Medicine of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China.,Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- SALIAI Stem Cell Institute of Guangdong, Guangzhou SALIAI Stem Cell Science and Technology Co. LTD, Guangzhou, 510055 People's Republic of China
| | - Wenting Lou
- Institute of Burns, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060 People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjian Huang
- Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Wang
- SALIAI Stem Cell Institute of Guangdong, Guangzhou SALIAI Stem Cell Science and Technology Co. LTD, Guangzhou, 510055 People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Huang
- Institute of Burns, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060 People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengxiang Liu
- Internal Medicine of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China.,Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China
| | - Weiguo Xie
- Institute of Burns, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060 People's Republic of China
| | - Yikai Zhou
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China
| | - Paul Yao
- Internal Medicine of Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 People's Republic of China.,Tongji Wenchang Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wenchang, 571321 People's Republic of China.,Institute of Burns, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060 People's Republic of China
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Puig-Alcaraz C, Fuentes-Albero M, Cauli O. Relationship between adipic acid concentration and the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. Psychiatry Res 2016; 242:39-45. [PMID: 27259135 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Dicarboxylic acids are an important source of information about metabolism and potential physiopathological alterations in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We measured the concentration between dicarboxylic adipic and suberic acids in children with an ASD and typically-developing (TD) children and analyzed any relationships between the severity of the core symptoms of ASDs and other clinical features (drugs, supplements, drugs, or diet). The core symptoms of autism were evaluated using the DSM-IV criteria, and adipic acid and suberic acid were measured in urine samples. Overall, no increase in the concentration of adipic acid in children with ASDs compared to TD children, however when considering vitamin B supplementation in ASD there were significantly increased level of urinary adipic acid in children with an ASD not taking vitamin B supplementation compared to supplemented children or to TD children. No significant difference were observed in suberic acid. Interestingly, the increase in adipic acid concentration was significantly and indirectly correlated with the severity of the deficit in socialization and communication skills in children with an ASD. Therefore, therapeutic treatments aimed at decreasing adipic acid concentration might not be beneficial for treating the core symptoms of ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Puig-Alcaraz
- Area of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Hospital of Sagunto, Sagunto, Valencia, Spain; Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, Castellón de la Plana, 12006 Castellón, Spain
| | | | - Omar Cauli
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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31
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Chen J, Wu W, Fu Y, Yu S, Cui D, Zhao M, Du Y, Li J, Li X. Increased expression of fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum in the valproic acid model of autism. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:1293-1298. [PMID: 27602061 PMCID: PMC4998172 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary aim of the present study was to investigate alterations in enzymes associated with fatty acid synthesis, namely fatty acid synthase (FASN) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum of the valproic acid (VPA)-induced animal model of autism. In this model, pregnant rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of VPA, and prefrontal cortex and cerebellum samples from their pups were analyzed. The results of western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses demonstrated that the protein and mRNA expression levels of FASN, ACC and phospho-ACC (pACC) were increased in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum of the VPA model of autism. Furthermore, in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum of the VPA model of autism, AMPK expression is increased, whereas PI3K and Akt expression are unchanged. This suggests that disorder of the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/FASN and/or adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/ACC pathway may be involved in the pathogenesis of autism. It is hypothesized that fatty acid synthesis participates in autism through PI3K/Akt/FASN and AMPK/ACC pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianling Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Yingmei Fu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Shunying Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Donghong Cui
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Min Zhao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Yasong Du
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
| | - Jijun Li
- Department of Integrative Medicine on Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohong Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, P.R. China
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32
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Morris G, Berk M, Carvalho A, Caso JR, Sanz Y, Walder K, Maes M. The Role of the Microbial Metabolites Including Tryptophan Catabolites and Short Chain Fatty Acids in the Pathophysiology of Immune-Inflammatory and Neuroimmune Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:4432-4451. [PMID: 27349436 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing awareness that gut commensal metabolites play a major role in host physiology and indeed the pathophysiology of several illnesses. The composition of the microbiota largely determines the levels of tryptophan in the systemic circulation and hence, indirectly, the levels of serotonin in the brain. Some microbiota synthesize neurotransmitters directly, e.g., gamma-amino butyric acid, while modulating the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF). The composition of the microbiota determines the levels and nature of tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs) which in turn has profound effects on aryl hydrocarbon receptors, thereby influencing epithelial barrier integrity and the presence of an inflammatory or tolerogenic environment in the intestine and beyond. The composition of the microbiota also determines the levels and ratios of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate and propionate. Butyrate is a key energy source for colonocytes. Dysbiosis leading to reduced levels of SCFAs, notably butyrate, therefore may have adverse effects on epithelial barrier integrity, energy homeostasis, and the T helper 17/regulatory/T cell balance. Moreover, dysbiosis leading to reduced butyrate levels may increase bacterial translocation into the systemic circulation. As examples, we describe the role of microbial metabolites in the pathophysiology of diabetes type 2 and autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Tir Na Nog, Bryn Road seaside 87, Llanelli, SA152LW, Wales, UK
| | - Michael Berk
- IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.,Orygen Youth Health Research Centre and the Centre of Youth Mental Health, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Australia
| | - Andre Carvalho
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-040, Brazil
| | - Javier R Caso
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University Complutense of Madrid, Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Sanz
- Microbial Ecology, Nutrition & Health Research Unit, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Av. Agustin Escardino 7, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ken Walder
- Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, P.O. Box 291, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia. .,Health Sciences Postgraduate Program, Health Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Parana, Brazil.
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Frye RE, Rossignol DA. Identification and Treatment of Pathophysiological Comorbidities of Autism Spectrum Disorder to Achieve Optimal Outcomes. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-PEDIATRICS 2016; 10:43-56. [PMID: 27330338 PMCID: PMC4910649 DOI: 10.4137/cmped.s38337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to rise, no effective medical treatments have become standard of care. In this paper we review some of the pathophysiological abnormalities associated with ASD and their potential associated treatments. Overall, there is evidence for some children with ASD being affected by seizure and epilepsy, neurotransmitter dysfunction, sleep disorders, metabolic abnormalities, including abnormalities in folate, cobalamin, tetrahydrobiopterin, carnitine, redox and mitochondrial metabolism, and immune and gastrointestinal disorders. Although evidence for an association between these pathophysiological abnormalities and ASD exists, the exact relationship to the etiology of ASD and its associated symptoms remains to be further defined in many cases. Despite these limitations, treatments targeting some of these pathophysiological abnormalities have been studied in some cases with high-quality studies, whereas treatments for other pathophysiological abnormalities have not been well studied in many cases. There are some areas of more promising treatments specific for ASD including neurotransmitter abnormalities, particularly imbalances in glutamate and acetylcholine, sleep onset disorder (with behavioral therapy and melatonin), and metabolic abnormalities in folate, cobalamin, tetrahydrobiopterin, carnitine, and redox pathways. There is some evidence for treatments of epilepsy and seizures, mitochondrial and immune disorders, and gastrointestinal abnormalities, particularly imbalances in the enteric microbiome, but further clinical studies are needed in these areas to better define treatments specific to children with ASD. Clearly, there are some promising areas of ASD research that could lead to novel treatments that could become standard of care in the future, but more research is needed to better define subgroups of children with ASD who are affected by specific pathophysiological abnormalities and the optimal treatments for these abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA.; Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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35
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Inborn Errors of Long-Chain Fatty Acid β-Oxidation Link Neural Stem Cell Self-Renewal to Autism. Cell Rep 2016; 14:991-999. [PMID: 26832401 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) occur with high incidence in human populations. Especially prevalent among these are inborn deficiencies in fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO), which are clinically associated with developmental neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism. We now report that neural stem cell (NSC)-autonomous insufficiencies in the activity of TMLHE (an autism risk factor that supports long-chain FAO by catalyzing carnitine biosynthesis), of CPT1A (an enzyme required for long-chain FAO transport into mitochondria), or of fatty acid mobilization from lipid droplets reduced NSC pools in the mouse embryonic neocortex. Lineage tracing experiments demonstrated that reduced flux through the FAO pathway potentiated NSC symmetric differentiating divisions at the expense of self-renewing stem cell division modes. The collective data reveal a key role for FAO in controlling NSC-to-IPC transition in the mammalian embryonic brain and suggest NSC self renewal as a cellular mechanism underlying the association between IEMs and autism.
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36
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Strandqvist A, Haglind CB, Zetterström RH, Nemeth A, von Döbeln U, Stenlid MH, Nordenström A. Neuropsychological Development in Patients with Long-Chain 3-Hydroxyacyl-CoA Dehydrogenase (LCHAD) Deficiency. JIMD Rep 2015; 28:75-84. [PMID: 26545880 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2015_505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reports on cognitive outcomes in long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (LCHADD) are scarce. We present results from neuropsychological assessments of eight patients diagnosed with LCHADD prior to newborn screening with regard to clinical disease severity. METHODS Intellectual ability and adaptive and executive functions were assessed using age-appropriate Wechsler Scales, Adaptive Behavior Assessment Scales (ABAS), and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). RESULTS Five patients performed in the normal range on IQ tests but with lower scores on verbal working memory. In addition, they had lower parent-rated adaptive and executive functions.Three patients had intellectual disabilities with IQs below normal and/or autism spectrum disorders. In addition, they had low results on parent-rated adaptive functions. (Two of these patients had epilepsy.) Conclusions: Patients with LCHADD seem to have a specific cognitive pattern, with presentation as intellectual disability and specific autistic deficiencies or a normal IQ with weaknesses in auditive verbal memory and adaptive and executive functions. Future studies are warranted to investigate whether newborn screening programs and early treatment may promote improved neuropsychological development and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Strandqvist
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - C Bieneck Haglind
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Pediatrics, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - R H Zetterström
- Departments of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Center for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Nemeth
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - U von Döbeln
- Center for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division for Metabolic Diseases, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Halldin Stenlid
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Nordenström
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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37
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Essential role of docosahexaenoic acid towards development of a smarter brain. Neurochem Int 2015; 89:51-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2015.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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38
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Wang L, Conlon MA, Christophersen CT, Sorich MJ, Angley MT. Gastrointestinal microbiota and metabolite biomarkers in children with autism spectrum disorders. Biomark Med 2014; 8:331-44. [PMID: 24712423 DOI: 10.2217/bmm.14.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Many affected individuals also display symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) disturbance, suggesting GI factors may play an important role in the pathogenesis of ASD and/or related complications. The current review will focus on evidence supporting a role for the GI microbiota and their fermentation products in the etiology and/or symptoms of ASD, and their potential use as biomarkers. GI-related biomarkers could potentially enable early identification of ASD at risk of GI disturbance, and thereby guide targeted interventions, potentially improving the health and quality of life of affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lv Wang
- Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
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Kałużna-Czaplińska J, Żurawicz E, Struck W, Markuszewski M. Identification of organic acids as potential biomarkers in the urine of autistic children using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2014; 966:70-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2014.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Revised: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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van Elst K, Bruining H, Birtoli B, Terreaux C, Buitelaar JK, Kas MJ. Food for thought: dietary changes in essential fatty acid ratios and the increase in autism spectrum disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 45:369-78. [PMID: 25025657 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The last decades have shown a spectacular and partially unexplained rise in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This rise in ASD seems to parallel changes in the dietary composition of fatty acids. This change is marked by the replacement of cholesterol by omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids in many of our food products, resulting in a drastically increased ratio of omega-6/omega-3 (n-6/n-3). In this context, we review the available knowledge on the putative role of fatty acids in neurodevelopment and describe how disturbances in n-6/n-3 ratios may contribute to the emergence of ASDs. Both clinical and experimental research is discussed. We argue that a change in the ratio of n-6/n-3, especially during early life, may induce developmental changes in brain connectivity, synaptogenesis, cognition and behavior that are directly related to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim van Elst
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hilgo Bruining
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Jan K Buitelaar
- Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Martien J Kas
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Napoli E, Dueñas N, Giulivi C. Potential therapeutic use of the ketogenic diet in autism spectrum disorders. Front Pediatr 2014; 2:69. [PMID: 25072037 PMCID: PMC4074854 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2014.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ketogenic diet (KGD) has been recognized as an effective treatment for individuals with glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) deficiencies as well as with epilepsy. More recently, its use has been advocated in a number of neurological disorders prompting a newfound interest in its possible therapeutic use in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). One study and one case report indicated that children with ASD treated with a KGD showed decreased seizure frequencies and exhibited behavioral improvements (i.e., improved learning abilities and social skills). The KGD could benefit individuals with ASD affected with epileptic episodes as well as those with either PDH or mild respiratory chain (RC) complex deficiencies. Given that the mechanism of action of the KGD is not fully understood, caution should be exercised in ASD cases lacking a careful biochemical and metabolic characterization to avoid deleterious side effects or refractory outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Napoli
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis , Davis, CA , USA
| | - Nadia Dueñas
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis , Davis, CA , USA
| | - Cecilia Giulivi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis , Davis, CA , USA ; Medical Investigations of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (M. I. N. D.) Institute , Sacramento, CA , USA
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Genes related to mitochondrial functions, protein degradation, and chromatin folding are differentially expressed in lymphomonocytes of Rett syndrome patients. Mediators Inflamm 2013; 2013:137629. [PMID: 24453408 PMCID: PMC3876710 DOI: 10.1155/2013/137629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is mainly caused by mutations in the X-linked methyl-CpG binding protein (MeCP2) gene. By binding to methylated promoters on CpG islands, MeCP2 protein is able to modulate several genes and important cellular pathways. Therefore, mutations in MeCP2 can seriously affect the cellular phenotype. Today, the pathways that MeCP2 mutations are able to affect in RTT are not clear yet. The aim of our study was to investigate the gene expression profiles in peripheral blood lymphomonocytes (PBMC) isolated from RTT patients to try to evidence new genes and new pathways that are involved in RTT pathophysiology. LIMMA (Linear Models for MicroArray) and SAM (Significance Analysis of Microarrays) analyses on microarray data from 12 RTT patients and 7 control subjects identified 482 genes modulated in RTT, of which 430 were upregulated and 52 were downregulated. Functional clustering of a total of 146 genes in RTT identified key biological pathways related to mitochondrial function and organization, cellular ubiquitination and proteosome degradation, RNA processing, and chromatin folding. Our microarray data reveal an overexpression of genes involved in ATP synthesis suggesting altered energy requirement that parallels with increased activities of protein degradation. In conclusion, these findings suggest that mitochondrial-ATP-proteasome functions are likely to be involved in RTT clinical features.
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Abstract
Using data of the current prevalence of autism as 200:10,000 and a 1:2000 incidence of definite mitochondrial (mt) disease, if there was no linkage of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and mt disease, it would be expected that 1 in 110 subjects with mt disease would have ASD and 1 in 2000 individuals with ASD would have mt disease. The co-occurrence of autism and mt disease is much higher than these figures, suggesting a possible pathogenetic relationship. Such hypothesis was initially suggested by the presence of biochemical markers of abnormal mt metabolic function in patients with ASD, including elevation of lactate, pyruvate, or alanine levels in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or brain; carnitine level in plasma; and level of organic acids in urine, and by demonstrating impaired mt fatty acid β-oxidation. More recently, mtDNA genetic mutations or deletions or mutations of nuclear genes regulating mt function have been associated with ASD in patients or in neuropathologic studies on the brains of patients with autism. In addition, the presence of dysfunction of the complexes of the mt respiratory chain or electron transport chain, indicating abnormal oxidative phosphorylation, has been reported in patients with ASD and in the autopsy samples of brains. Possible pathogenetic mechanisms linking mt dysfunction and ASD include mt activation of the immune system, abnormal mt Ca(2+) handling, and mt-induced oxidative stress. Genetic and epigenetic regulation of brain development may also be disrupted by mt dysfunction, including mt-induced oxidative stress. The role of the purinergic system linking mt dysfunction and ASD is currently under investigation. In summary, there is genetic and biochemical evidence for a mitochondria (mt) role in the pathogenesis of ASD in a subset of children. To determine the prevalence and type of genetic and biochemical mt defects in ASD, there is a need for further research using the latest genetic technology such as next-generation sequencing, microarrays, bioinformatics, and biochemical assays. Because of the availability of potential therapeutic options for mt disease, successful research results could translate into better treatment and outcome for patients with mt-associated ASD. This requires a high index of suspicion of mt disease in children with autism who are diagnosed early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Legido
- Section of Neurology, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA; Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Reena Jethva
- Section of Neurology, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA; Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Michael J Goldenthal
- Section of Neurology, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA; Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
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44
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Zhang F, Wang D, Li X, Li Z, Chao J, Qin X. Metabolomic study of the fever model induced by baker's yeast and the antipyretic effects of aspirin in rats using nuclear magnetic resonance and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2013; 81-82:168-77. [PMID: 23670098 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2013.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A metabolomic investigation of baker's yeast-induced fever in rats was carried out. Plasma derived from Sprague-Dawley rats treated by subcutaneous administration of 20% (w/v) baker's yeast was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Statistical data analysis using t-test and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis revealed many significant changes in the metabolic data in the plasma of the fever group. Clear separation was achieved between the fever and control groups. Seventeen marked metabolites were found in the fever group. The metabolites, which include amino acids, carbohydrate, organic acids, and fatty acids, mostly contributed to the discrimination of plasma samples from the control and fever groups. These results suggested that fever may involve in the perturbation of amino acid metabolism coupled with energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, and glycometabolism. After determining the antipyretic effects of aspirin on the fever group, four metabolites in the fever rat plasma were found to be signally regulated and recognized as potential biomarkers, including 3-hydroxybutyric acid, gamma-aminobutyric acid, glucose, and linoleic acid. The metabolic relationships that possibly exist between these potential biomarkers were speculated, and the mechanism of baker's yeast-induced fever was illustrated based on the metabolic relationships. This study found that metabolomic approaches such as GC-MS and NMR could be used as potential powerful tools to investigate the biochemical changes and mechanisms in certain pathological states at the metabolism level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Zhang
- Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine of Shanxi University, No. 92, Wucheng Road, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, PR China
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45
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Unique acyl-carnitine profiles are potential biomarkers for acquired mitochondrial disease in autism spectrum disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2013; 3:e220. [PMID: 23340503 PMCID: PMC3566723 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2012.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been associated with mitochondrial disease (MD). Interestingly, most individuals with ASD and MD do not have a specific genetic mutation to explain the MD, raising the possibility of that MD may be acquired, at least in a subgroup of children with ASD. Acquired MD has been demonstrated in a rodent ASD model in which propionic acid (PPA), an enteric bacterial fermentation product of ASD-associated gut bacteria, is infused intracerebroventricularly. This animal model shows validity as it demonstrates many behavioral, metabolic, neuropathologic and neurophysiologic abnormalities associated with ASD. This animal model also demonstrates a unique pattern of elevations in short-chain and long-chain acyl-carnitines suggesting abnormalities in fatty-acid metabolism. To determine if the same pattern of biomarkers of abnormal fatty-acid metabolism are present in children with ASD, the laboratory results from a large cohort of children with ASD (n=213) who underwent screening for metabolic disorders, including mitochondrial and fatty-acid oxidation disorders, in a medically based autism clinic were reviewed. Acyl-carnitine panels were determined to be abnormal if three or more individual acyl-carnitine species were abnormal in the panel and these abnormalities were verified by repeated testing. Overall, 17% of individuals with ASD demonstrated consistently abnormal acyl-carnitine panels. Next, it was determined if specific acyl-carnitine species were consistently elevated across the individuals with consistently abnormal acyl-carnitine panels. Significant elevations in short-chain and long-chain, but not medium-chain, acyl-carnitines were found in the ASD individuals with consistently abnormal acyl-carnitine panels-a pattern consistent with the PPA rodent ASD model. Examination of electron transport chain function in muscle and fibroblast culture, histological and electron microscopy examination of muscle and other biomarkers of mitochondrial metabolism revealed a pattern consistent with the notion that PPA could be interfering with mitochondrial metabolism at the level of the tricarboxylic-acid cycle (TCAC). The function of the fatty-acid oxidation pathway in fibroblast cultures and biomarkers for abnormalities in non-mitochondrial fatty-acid metabolism were not consistently abnormal across the subgroup of ASD children, consistent with the notion that the abnormalities in fatty-acid metabolism found in this subgroup of children with ASD were secondary to TCAC abnormalities. Glutathione metabolism was abnormal in the subset of ASD individuals with consistent acyl-carnitine panel abnormalities in a pattern similar to glutathione abnormalities found in the PPA rodent model of ASD. These data suggest that there are similar pathological processes between a subset of ASD children and an animal model of ASD with acquired mitochondrial dysfunction. Future studies need to identify additional parallels between the PPA rodent model of ASD and this subset of ASD individuals with this unique pattern of acyl-carnitine abnormalities. A better understanding of this animal model and subset of children with ASD should lead to better insight in mechanisms behind environmentally induced ASD pathophysiology and should provide guidance for developing preventive and symptomatic treatments.
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46
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Hadjixenofontos A, Schmidt MA, Whitehead PL, Konidari I, Hedges DJ, Wright HH, Abramson RK, Menon R, Williams SM, Cuccaro ML, Haines JL, Gilbert JR, Pericak-Vance MA, Martin ER, McCauley JL. Evaluating mitochondrial DNA variation in autism spectrum disorders. Ann Hum Genet 2012; 77:9-21. [PMID: 23130936 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-1809.2012.00736.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 09/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite the increasing speculation that oxidative stress and abnormal energy metabolism may play a role in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and the observation that patients with mitochondrial defects have symptoms consistent with ASD, there are no comprehensive published studies examining the role of mitochondrial variation in autism. Therefore, we have sought to comprehensively examine the role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation with regard to ASD risk, employing a multi-phase approach. In phase 1 of our experiment, we examined 132 mtDNA single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) genotyped as part of our genome-wide association studies of ASD. In phase 2 we genotyped the major European mitochondrial haplogroup-defining variants within an expanded set of autism probands and controls. Finally in phase 3, we resequenced the entire mtDNA in a subset of our Caucasian samples (∼400 proband-father pairs). In each phase we tested whether mitochondrial variation showed evidence of association to ASD. Despite a thorough interrogation of mtDNA variation, we found no evidence to suggest a major role for mtDNA variation in ASD susceptibility. Accordingly, while there may be attractive biological hints suggesting the role of mitochondria in ASD our data indicate that mtDNA variation is not a major contributing factor to the development of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athena Hadjixenofontos
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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47
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Nava C, Lamari F, Héron D, Mignot C, Rastetter A, Keren B, Cohen D, Faudet A, Bouteiller D, Gilleron M, Jacquette A, Whalen S, Afenjar A, Périsse D, Laurent C, Dupuits C, Gautier C, Gérard M, Huguet G, Caillet S, Leheup B, Leboyer M, Gillberg C, Delorme R, Bourgeron T, Brice A, Depienne C. Analysis of the chromosome X exome in patients with autism spectrum disorders identified novel candidate genes, including TMLHE. Transl Psychiatry 2012; 2:e179. [PMID: 23092983 PMCID: PMC3565810 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2012.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The striking excess of affected males in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) suggests that genes located on chromosome X contribute to the etiology of these disorders. To identify new X-linked genes associated with ASD, we analyzed the entire chromosome X exome by next-generation sequencing in 12 unrelated families with two affected males. Thirty-six possibly deleterious variants in 33 candidate genes were found, including PHF8 and HUWE1, previously implicated in intellectual disability (ID). A nonsense mutation in TMLHE, which encodes the ɛ-N-trimethyllysine hydroxylase catalyzing the first step of carnitine biosynthesis, was identified in two brothers with autism and ID. By screening the TMLHE coding sequence in 501 male patients with ASD, we identified two additional missense substitutions not found in controls and not reported in databases. Functional analyses confirmed that the mutations were associated with a loss-of-function and led to an increase in trimethyllysine, the precursor of carnitine biosynthesis, in the plasma of patients. This study supports the hypothesis that rare variants on the X chromosome are involved in the etiology of ASD and contribute to the sex-ratio disequilibrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Nava
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Université Pierre et Marie
Curie-Paris-6 (UPMC), UMR_S 975, Paris, France,Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France
| | - F Lamari
- Département de Biochimie, AP-HP,
Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris,
France
| | - D Héron
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,AP-HP, Hôpital Trousseau, service de
neuropédiatrie, Paris, France,Centre de Référence
‘déficiences intellectuelles de causes rares',
Paris, France,Groupe de Recherche Clinique (GRC)
‘déficience intellectuelle et autisme' UPMC,
Paris, France
| | - C Mignot
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,AP-HP, Hôpital Trousseau, service de
neuropédiatrie, Paris, France,Centre de Référence
‘déficiences intellectuelles de causes rares',
Paris, France,Groupe de Recherche Clinique (GRC)
‘déficience intellectuelle et autisme' UPMC,
Paris, France
| | - A Rastetter
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Université Pierre et Marie
Curie-Paris-6 (UPMC), UMR_S 975, Paris, France
| | - B Keren
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de
cytogénétique, AP-HP, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - D Cohen
- Service de psychiatrie de l'enfant et
de l'adolescent, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,Institut des Systèmes Intelligents
et Robotiques, CNRS UMR 7222, UPMC-Paris-6, Paris,
France
| | - A Faudet
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France
| | - D Bouteiller
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Université Pierre et Marie
Curie-Paris-6 (UPMC), UMR_S 975, Paris, France,ICM, PFGS Platform, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - M Gilleron
- Département de Biochimie, AP-HP,
Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris,
France
| | - A Jacquette
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,Centre de Référence
‘déficiences intellectuelles de causes rares',
Paris, France,Groupe de Recherche Clinique (GRC)
‘déficience intellectuelle et autisme' UPMC,
Paris, France
| | - S Whalen
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France
| | - A Afenjar
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,AP-HP, Hôpital Trousseau, service de
neuropédiatrie, Paris, France,Centre de Référence
‘déficiences intellectuelles de causes rares',
Paris, France,Groupe de Recherche Clinique (GRC)
‘déficience intellectuelle et autisme' UPMC,
Paris, France,Centre de référence des
anomalies du développement et syndromes malformatifs, Hôpital
Trousseau, Paris, France
| | - D Périsse
- Service de psychiatrie de l'enfant et
de l'adolescent, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,Centre référent
autisme, Paris, France
| | - C Laurent
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Service de psychiatrie de l'enfant et
de l'adolescent, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France
| | - C Dupuits
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Service de diététique et
unité fonctionnelle de neurormétabolisme, AP-HP, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - C Gautier
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - M Gérard
- CHU Côte de Nacre,
Paris, France
| | - G Huguet
- Institut Pasteur, Human Genetics and
Cognitive Functions Unit, Paris, France,CNRS URA 2182 ‘Genes, synapses and
cognition', Institut Pasteur, Paris, France,University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris
Cité, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Paris,
France
| | - S Caillet
- Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,Service de diététique et
unité fonctionnelle de neurormétabolisme, AP-HP, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - B Leheup
- CHU de Nancy Pôle Enfants, Service de
Médecine Infantile III et Génétique Clinique, Centre de
référence Anomalies du développement et Syndromes malformatifs et
Université de Lorraine EA 4368, Vandoeuvre les Nancy,
France
| | - M Leboyer
- Inserm, U955,
Créteil, France,Université Paris Est, Faculté
de médecine, Créteil, France,AP-HP, Hôpital H. Mondor—A.
Chenevier, Pole de Psychiatrie, Créteil, France,Fondation FondaMental,
Créteil, France
| | - C Gillberg
- Department of Child and Adolescent
Psychiatry, Goteborg University, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - R Delorme
- AP-HP, Hôpital Robert Debré,
Service de pédopsychiatrie, Paris, France
| | - T Bourgeron
- Institut Pasteur, Human Genetics and
Cognitive Functions Unit, Paris, France,CNRS URA 2182 ‘Genes, synapses and
cognition', Institut Pasteur, Paris, France,University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris
Cité, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Paris,
France
| | - A Brice
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Université Pierre et Marie
Curie-Paris-6 (UPMC), UMR_S 975, Paris, France,Département de Génétique
et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de génétique
clinique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris, France,INSERM U975 (Cricm), Institut du cerveau et de la moelle
épinière, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris
75 013, France. E-mail: or
| | - C Depienne
- INSERM, U975—CRICM, Institut du cerveau
et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,CNRS 7225—CRICM, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,Université Pierre et Marie
Curie-Paris-6 (UPMC), UMR_S 975, Paris, France,Département de
Génétique et de Cytogénétique, Unité fonctionnelle de
neurogénétique moléculaire et cellulaire, AP-HP, Hôpital
Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France,INSERM U975 (Cricm), Institut du cerveau et de la moelle
épinière, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière,
Paris
75 013, France. E-mail: or
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48
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MacFabe DF. Short-chain fatty acid fermentation products of the gut microbiome: implications in autism spectrum disorders. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY IN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2012; 23:19260. [PMID: 23990817 PMCID: PMC3747729 DOI: 10.3402/mehd.v23i0.19260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests potential, but unproven, links between dietary, metabolic, infective, and gastrointestinal factors and the behavioral exacerbations and remissions of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Propionic acid (PPA) and its related short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are fermentation products of ASD-associated bacteria (Clostridia, Bacteriodetes, Desulfovibrio). SCFAs represent a group of compounds derived from the host microbiome that are plausibly linked to ASDs and can induce widespread effects on gut, brain, and behavior. Intraventricular administration of PPA and SCFAs in rats induces abnormal motor movements, repetitive interests, electrographic changes, cognitive deficits, perseveration, and impaired social interactions. The brain tissue of PPA-treated rats shows a number of ASD-linked neurochemical changes, including innate neuroinflammation, increased oxidative stress, glutathione depletion, and altered phospholipid/acylcarnitine profiles. These directly or indirectly contribute to acquired mitochondrial dysfunction via impairment in carnitine-dependent pathways, consistent with findings in patients with ASDs. Of note, common antibiotics may impair carnitine-dependent processes by altering gut flora favoring PPA-producing bacteria and by directly inhibiting carnitine transport across the gut. Human populations that are partial metabolizers of PPA are more common than previously thought. PPA has further bioactive effects on neurotransmitter systems, intracellular acidification/calcium release, fatty acid metabolism, gap junction gating, immune function, and alteration of gene expression that warrant further exploration. These findings are consistent with the symptoms and proposed underlying mechanisms of ASDs and support the use of PPA infusions in rats as a valid animal model of the condition. Collectively, this offers further support that gut-derived factors, such as dietary or enteric bacterially produced SCFAs, may be plausible environmental agents that can trigger ASDs or ASD-related behaviors and deserve further exploration in basic science, agriculture, and clinical medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick F. MacFabe
- Director: The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, Departments of Psychology (Neuroscience) and Psychiatry, Division of Developmental Disabilities, Lawson Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5C2
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49
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Wang L, Christophersen CT, Sorich MJ, Gerber JP, Angley MT, Conlon MA. Elevated fecal short chain fatty acid and ammonia concentrations in children with autism spectrum disorder. Dig Dis Sci 2012; 57:2096-102. [PMID: 22535281 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2167-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 250] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2011] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder where a high frequency of gastrointestinal disturbance (e.g., constipation and diarrhea) is reported. As large bowel fermentation products can have beneficial or detrimental effects on health, these were measured in feces of children with and without ASD to examine whether there is an underlying disturbance in fermentation processes in the disorder. METHODS Fecal samples (48 h) were collected from children with ASD (n = 23), and without ASD (n = 31) of similar age. Concentrations of short chain fatty acids, phenols and ammonia were measured. RESULTS Fecal total short chain fatty acid concentrations were significantly higher in children with ASD compared to controls (136.6 ± 8.7 vs. 111.1 ± 6.6 mmol/kg). Moreover, when concentrations of fecal acetic, butyric, isobutyric, valeric, isovaleric and caproic acids were measured, all were significantly higher in children with ASD compared with controls except for caproic acid. The concentration of fecal ammonia was also significantly greater in ASD participants than controls (42.7 ± 3.3 vs. 32.3 ± 1.9 mmol/kg). Fecal phenol levels and pH did not differ between groups. Macronutrient intake, as determined from dietary records kept by caregivers, also did not differ significantly between study groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest fermentation processes or utilization of fermentation products may be altered in children with ASD compared to children without ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lv Wang
- Sansom Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
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50
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Abstract
ASDs (autism spectrum disorders) are a complex group of neurodevelopment disorders, still poorly understood, steadily rising in frequency and treatment refractory. Extensive research has been so far unable to explain the aetiology of this condition, whereas a growing body of evidence suggests the involvement of environmental factors. Phthalates, given their extensive use and their persistence, are ubiquitous environmental contaminants. They are EDs (endocrine disruptors) suspected to interfere with neurodevelopment. Therefore they represent interesting candidate risk factors for ASD pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of the primary and secondary metabolites of DEHP [di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate] in children with ASD. A total of 48 children with ASD (male: 36, female: 12; mean age: 11 ± 5 years) and age- and sex-comparable 45 HCs (healthy controls; male: 25, female: 20; mean age: 12 ± 5 years) were enrolled. A diagnostic methodology, based on the determination of urinary concentrations of DEHP metabolites by HPLC-ESI-MS (HPLC electrospray ionization MS), was applied to urine spot samples. MEHP [mono-(2-ethylhexenyl) 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate], 6-OH-MEHP [mono-(2-ethyl-6-hydroxyhexyl) 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate], 5-OH-MEHP [mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate] and 5-oxo-MEHP [mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate] were measured and compared with unequivocally characterized, pure synthetic compounds (>98%) taken as standard. In ASD patients, significant increase in 5-OH-MEHP (52.1%, median 0.18) and 5-oxo-MEHP (46.0%, median 0.096) urinary concentrations were detected, with a significant positive correlation between 5-OH-MEHP and 5-oxo-MEHP (rs = 0.668, P<0.0001). The fully oxidized form 5-oxo-MEHP showed 91.1% specificity in identifying patients with ASDs. Our findings demonstrate for the first time an association between phthalates exposure and ASDs, thus suggesting a previously unrecognized role for these ubiquitous environmental contaminants in the pathogenesis of autism.
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