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Amnuaylojaroen T, Parasin N, Saokaew S. Exploring the association between early-life air pollution exposure and autism spectrum disorders in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108582. [PMID: 38556115 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108582] [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: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this meta-analysis is to investigate the association between air pollution and the vulnerability of children to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A thorough examination and analysis of data obtained from a compilation of 14 studies was undertaken, with a particular emphasis on investigating the effects of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), oxide of nitrogen (NOx), ozone (O3), and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) on individuals diagnosed with ASD. The findings demonstrate a moderate association between exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ASD, as indicated by a combined odds ratio (OR) of 1.13 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) spanning from 0.77 to 1.549. O3 shows a combined odds ratio (OR) of 0.82, along with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 0.49 to 1.14. NOx shows a moderate level of heterogeneity (I² = 75.9%, p = 0.002), suggesting that the impact of NOx on the risk of ASD. There is a statistically significant relationship between exposure to O3 and ASD, although the strength of this relationship is diminished. The findings demonstrated a noteworthy correlation between exposure to PM10 and PM2.5 and the occurrence of ASD. The study found a significant correlation, in relation to PM2.5, with a combined odds ratio (OR) of 1.22 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 1.11 to 1.34. The findings have significant implications for the formulation of programs aimed at reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, especially among vulnerable groups such as children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen
- School of Energy and Environment, University of Phayao, Phayao 56000, Thailand; Atmospheric Pollution and Climate Change Research Units, School of Energy and Environment, University of Phayao, Phayao 56000, Thailand.
| | - Nichapa Parasin
- School of Allied Health Science, University of Phayao, Phayao 56000, Thailand
| | - Surasak Saokaew
- Division of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Care, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao 56000, Thailand; Unit of Excellence on Clinical Outcomes Research and Integration (UNICORN), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao 56000, Thailand; Center of Health Outcomes Research and Therapeutic Safety (Cohorts), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao 56000, Thailand
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Brozzetti L, Scambi I, Bertoldi L, Zanini A, Malacrida G, Sacchetto L, Baldassa L, Benvenuto G, Mariotti R, Zanusso G, Cecchini MP. RNAseq analysis of olfactory neuroepithelium cytological samples in individuals with Down syndrome compared to euploid controls: a pilot study. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:919-930. [PMID: 36394661 PMCID: PMC9925603 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06500-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome is a common genetic disorder caused by partial or complete triplication of chromosome 21. This syndrome shows an overall and progressive impairment of olfactory function, detected early in adulthood. The olfactory neuronal cells are located in the nasal olfactory mucosa and represent the first sensory neurons of the olfactory pathway. Herein, we applied the olfactory swabbing procedure to allow a gentle collection of olfactory epithelial cells in seven individuals with Down syndrome and in ten euploid controls. The aim of this research was to investigate the peripheral gene expression pattern in olfactory epithelial cells through RNAseq analysis. Validated tests (Sniffin' Sticks Extended test) were used to assess olfactory function. Olfactory scores were correlated with RNAseq results and cognitive scores (Vineland II and Leiter scales). All Down syndrome individuals showed both olfactory deficit and intellectual disability. Down syndrome individuals and euploid controls exhibited clear expression differences in genes located in and outside the chromosome 21. In addition, a significant correlation was found between olfactory test scores and gene expression, while a non-significant correlation emerged between olfactory and cognitive scores. This first preliminary step gives new insights into the Down syndrome olfactory system research, starting from the olfactory neuroepithelium, the first cellular step on the olfactory way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Brozzetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Scambi
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Alice Zanini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Luca Sacchetto
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Otolaryngology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lucia Baldassa
- AGBD, Associazione Sindrome di Down, Onlus, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Mariotti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Zanusso
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Unit, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Cecchini
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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Cheng L, Wu H, Chen Z, Hao H, Zheng X. Gut microbiome at the crossroad of genetic variants and behavior disorders. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2201156. [PMID: 37089016 PMCID: PMC10128504 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2201156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic variants are traditionally known to shape the susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disorders. An increasing number of studies indicate that remodeling of the gut microbiome by genetic variance serves as a versatile regulator of gut-brain crosstalk and behavior. Evidence also emerges that certain behavioral symptoms are specifically attributed to gut microbial remodeling and gut-to-brain signals, which necessitates rethinking of neuropsychiatric disease etiology and treatment from a systems perspective of reciprocal gene-microbe interactions. Here, we present an emerging picture of how gut microbes and host genetics interactively shape complex psychiatric phenotypes. We illustrate the growing understanding of how the gut microbiome is shaped by genetic changes and its connection to behavioral outcome. We also discuss working strategies and open questions in translating associative gene-microbiome-behavior findings into causal links and novel targets for neurobehavioral disorders. Dual targeting of the genetic and microbial factors may expand the space of drug discovery for neuropsychiatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingsha Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Drug Target Discovery, School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haoqian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Drug Target Discovery, School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Drug Target Discovery, School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Drug Target Discovery, School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Drug Target Discovery, School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Sznajder KK, Teti DM, Kjerulff KH. Maternal use of acetaminophen during pregnancy and neurobehavioral problems in offspring at 3 years: A prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272593. [PMID: 36170224 PMCID: PMC9518858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used drugs during pregnancy globally. Recent studies have reported associations between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and neurobehavioral problems in children, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders. Little research has investigated these associations in preschool-age children or the potential confounding effects of prenatal stress. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and offspring neurobehavioral problems at the age of 3 years, with a focus on the potentially confounding effects of prenatal stress. METHODS We used data from the First Baby Study, a prospective cohort study conducted in Pennsylvania, USA, with 2,423 mother-child pairs. Women reported medication use and completed a prenatal stress inventory during their third trimester. Child behavioral problems were measured at the age of 3 years, using the 7 syndrome scale scores from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) for ages 1 ½ to 5. RESULTS There were 1,011 women (41.7%) who reported using acetaminophen during pregnancy. Children who were exposed to acetaminophen during pregnancy scored significantly higher on 3 of the 7 CBCL syndrome scales: withdrawn, sleep problems and attention problems. Scores on all 7 of the CBCL syndrome scales were significantly associated with prenatal stress. After adjustment for prenatal stress and other confounders, 2 syndrome scales remained significantly higher in children exposed to acetaminophen: sleep problems (aOR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.01-1.51) and attention problems (aOR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.01-1.45). CONCLUSIONS These findings corroborate previous studies reporting associations between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and attention problems in offspring and also show an association with sleep problems at age 3 years. Because use of acetaminophen during pregnancy is common, these results are of public health concern and suggest caution in the use of medications containing acetaminophen during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin K. Sznajder
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Douglas M. Teti
- Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kristen H. Kjerulff
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Tanner S, Thomson S, Drummond K, O'Hely M, Symeonides C, Mansell T, Saffery R, Sly PD, Collier F, Burgner D, Sugeng EJ, Dwyer T, Vuillermin P, Ponsonby AL, On Behalf Of The Barwon Infant Study Investigator Group. A Pathway-Based Genetic Score for Oxidative Stress: An Indicator of Host Vulnerability to Phthalate-Associated Adverse Neurodevelopment. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:659. [PMID: 35453345 PMCID: PMC9030597 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The developing brain is highly sensitive to environmental disturbances, and adverse exposures can act through oxidative stress. Given that oxidative stress susceptibility is determined partly by genetics, multiple studies have employed genetic scores to explore the role of oxidative stress in human disease. However, traditional approaches to genetic score construction face a range of challenges, including a lack of interpretability, bias towards the disease outcome, and often overfitting to the study they were derived on. Here, we develop an alternative strategy by first generating a genetic pathway function score for oxidative stress (gPFSox) based on the transcriptional activity levels of the oxidative stress response pathway in brain and other tissue types. Then, in the Barwon Infant Study (BIS), a population-based birth cohort (n = 1074), we show that a high gPFSox, indicating reduced ability to counter oxidative stress, is linked to higher autism spectrum disorder risk and higher parent-reported autistic traits at age 4 years, with AOR values (per 2 additional pro-oxidant alleles) of 2.10 (95% CI (1.12, 4.11); p = 0.024) and 1.42 (95% CI (1.02, 2.01); p = 0.041), respectively. Past work in BIS has reported higher prenatal phthalate exposure at 36 weeks of gestation associated with offspring autism spectrum disorder. In this study, we examine combined effects and show a consistent pattern of increased neurodevelopmental problems for individuals with both a high gPFSox and high prenatal phthalate exposure across a range of outcomes, including high gPFSox and high DEHP levels against autism spectrum disorder (attributable proportion due to interaction 0.89; 95% CI (0.62, 1.16); p < 0.0001). The results highlight the utility of this novel functional genetic score and add to the growing evidence implicating gestational phthalate exposure in adverse neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Tanner
- Developing Brain Division, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Sarah Thomson
- Developing Brain Division, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Katherine Drummond
- Developing Brain Division, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Martin O'Hely
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Christos Symeonides
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- The Minderoo Foundation, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
| | - Toby Mansell
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Peter D Sly
- Children's Health Research Centre, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Children's Health and Environment, South Brisbane, QLD 4104, Australia
| | - Fiona Collier
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
- Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - David Burgner
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Eva J Sugeng
- Department of Environment and Health, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Terence Dwyer
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Peter Vuillermin
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
- Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Developing Brain Division, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Cucinotta F, Ricciardello A, Turriziani L, Mancini A, Keller R, Sacco R, Persico AM. Efficacy and Safety of Q10 Ubiquinol With Vitamins B and E in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Retrospective Chart Review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:829516. [PMID: 35308885 PMCID: PMC8927903 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.829516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased oxidative stress and defective mitochondrial functioning are shared features among many brain disorders. The aim of this study was to verify retrospectively the clinical efficacy and safety of a metabolic support therapy with Q10 ubiquinol, vitamin E and complex-B vitamins in various neurodevelopmental disorders. This retrospective chart review study included 59 patients (mean age 10.1 ± 1.2 y.o., range 2.5-39 years; M:F = 2.47:1), diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (n = 17), Autism Spectrum Disorder with co-morbid Intellectual Disability (n = 19), Intellectual Disability or Global Developmental Delay (n = 15), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (n = 3) and Intellectual Disability in Phelan-McDermid syndrome due to chr. 22q13.33 deletion (n = 5). After a minimum of 3 months of therapy, a positive outcome was recorded in 45/59 (76.27%) patients, with Clinical Global Impression-Improvement scores ranging between 1 ("very much improved") and 3 ("minimally improved"). The most widespread improvements were recorded in cognition (n = 26, 44.1%), adaptative functioning (n = 26, 44.1%) and social motivation (n = 19, 32.2%). Improvement rates differed by diagnosis, being observed most consistently in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (5/5, 100%), followed by Intellectual Disability/Global Developmental Delay (13/15, 86.7%), Autism Spectrum Disorder with co-morbid Intellectual Disability (15/19, 78.9%), Autism Spectrum Disorder (11/17, 64.7%) and ADHD (1/3, 33.3%). No significant adverse event or side effect leading to treatment discontinuation were recorded. Mild side effects were reported in 18 (30.5%) patients, with the most frequent being increased hyperactivity (9/59, 15.3%). This retrospective chart review suggests that metabolic support therapy with Q10 ubiquinol, vitamin E and complex-B vitamins is well tolerated and produces some improvement in the majority of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, especially in the presence of intellectual disability. Randomized controlled trials for each single neurodevelopmental disorder are now warranted to conclusively demonstrate the efficacy of these mitochondrial bioenergetic and antioxidant agents and to estimate their therapeutic effect size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cucinotta
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy.,IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Arianna Ricciardello
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy.,Villa Miralago, Cuasso al Monte, Italy
| | - Laura Turriziani
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | - Arianna Mancini
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberto Keller
- Mental Health Department, Adult Autism Centre, Rete Ospedaliera Territorio Nord-Ovest, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Città di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberto Sacco
- Service for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio M Persico
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Program, Modena University Hospital and Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Caracci MO, Avila ME, Espinoza-Cavieres FA, López HR, Ugarte GD, De Ferrari GV. Wnt/β-Catenin-Dependent Transcription in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:764756. [PMID: 34858139 PMCID: PMC8632544 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.764756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by synaptic dysfunction and defects in dendritic spine morphology. In the past decade, an extensive list of genes associated with ASD has been identified by genome-wide sequencing initiatives. Several of these genes functionally converge in the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, a conserved cascade essential for stem cell pluripotency and cell fate decisions during development. Here, we review current information regarding the transcriptional program of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in ASD. First, we discuss that Wnt/β-catenin gain and loss of function studies recapitulate brain developmental abnormalities associated with ASD. Second, transcriptomic approaches using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) cells, featuring mutations in high confidence ASD genes, reveal a significant dysregulation in the expression of Wnt signaling components. Finally, we focus on the activity of chromatin-remodeling proteins and transcription factors considered high confidence ASD genes, including CHD8, ARID1B, ADNP, and TBR1, that regulate Wnt/β-catenin-dependent transcriptional activity in multiple cell types, including pyramidal neurons, interneurons and oligodendrocytes, cells which are becoming increasingly relevant in the study of ASD. We conclude that the level of Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation could explain the high phenotypical heterogeneity of ASD and be instrumental in the development of new diagnostics tools and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario O. Caracci
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel E. Avila
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Agronomy, Nucleus of Applied Research in Veterinary and Agronomic Sciences (NIAVA), Institute of Natural Sciences, Universidad de Las Américas, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisca A. Espinoza-Cavieres
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Héctor R. López
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Giorgia D. Ugarte
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Giancarlo V. De Ferrari
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
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8
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Horiuchi F, Yoshino Y, Kumon H, Hosokawa R, Nakachi K, Kawabe K, Iga JI, Ueno SI. Identification of aberrant innate and adaptive immunity based on changes in global gene expression in the blood of adults with autism spectrum disorder. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:102. [PMID: 33931079 PMCID: PMC8086363 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02154-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized as a neurodevelopmental disorder, and one of the main hypotheses regarding its cause is genetic factors. A previous meta-analysis of seven microarray studies and one RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) study using the blood of children with ASD identified dysregulation of gene expressions relevant to the immune system. In this study, we explored changes in global gene expression as the phenotype of ASD in the blood of adults with ASD. Methods We recruited an RNA-seq cohort (ASD vs. control; n = 6 each) and a replication cohort (ASD vs. control; n = 19 each) and conducted RNA-seq to explore changes in global gene expression. We then subjected the significantly up- and downregulated genes to gene ontology (GO) and core analyses. Weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was performed with all 11,617 genes detected in RNA-seq to identify the ASD-specific gene network. Results In total, 117 significantly up- and 83 significantly downregulated genes were detected in the ASD compared with the control group, respectively (p < 0.05 and q < 0.05). GO analysis revealed that the aberrant innate and adaptive immunity were more obvious in the 117 upregulated than in the 83 downregulated genes. WGCNA with core analysis revealed that one module including many immune-related genes was associated with the natural killer cell signaling pathway. In the results for the replication cohort, significant changes with same trend found in RNA-seq data were confirmed for MAFB (p = 0.046), RPSAP58 (p = 0.030), and G2MK (p = 0.004). Limitations The sample size was relatively small in both the RNA-seq and replication cohorts. This study examined the mRNA expression level, so the interaction between mRNA and protein remains unclear. The expression changes between children and adults with ASD were not compared because only adults with ASD were targeted. Conclusions The dysregulated gene expressions confirmed in the blood of adults with ASD were relevant to the dysfunction of innate and adaptive immunity. These findings may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of ASD. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-021-02154-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumie Horiuchi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Yuta Yoshino
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kumon
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Rie Hosokawa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Kiwamu Nakachi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Kentaro Kawabe
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Iga
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Shu-Ichi Ueno
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Molecules and Function, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Shitsukawa, Toon, Ehime, 791-0295, Japan
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9
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Thom RP, McDougle CJ. Immune Modulatory Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2020; 35:100836. [PMID: 32892957 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2020.100836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence from family history studies, immunogenetics, maternal immune activation, neuroinflammation, and systemic inflammation support an immune subtype of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Current Food and Drug Administration-approved medications for ASD do not address the underlying pathophysiology of ASD, have not consistently been shown to address the core symptoms of ASD, and are currently only approved for treating irritability in children and adolescents. In this article, we review the immune modulatory effects of the 2 currently Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for ASD. We then provide an overview of current data on emerging treatments for ASD from multiple fields of medicine with immune modulatory effects. Although further research is needed to more clearly establish the efficacy and safety of immune modulatory treatments, early data on repurposing medications used to treat systemic inflammation for ASD demonstrate potential benefit and further research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn P Thom
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; Lurie Center for Autism, Lexington, MA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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10
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Uddin MN, Yao Y, Manley K, Lawrence DA. Development, phenotypes of immune cells in BTBR T +Itpr3 tf/J mice. Cell Immunol 2020; 358:104223. [PMID: 33137646 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2020.104223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by a lack of social interaction, decreased verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and stereotyped repetitive behavior. There is strong evidence that a dysregulated immune response may influence neurodevelopment and thus may have a role in the development of ASD. This study focuses on the characterization of immune cell phenotypes in the BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mouse strain, a widely used animal model for autism research. Our study demonstrated that BTBR mice have a different immune profile compared to C57BL/6J (B6) mice, which do not display ASD-like characteristics. Thymic cells of BTBR mice have more single positive (SP) CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and fewer double positive (DP) T cells than B6 mice. The development of T cells is increased in BTBR mice with regard to the double negative (DN4) population being much higher in BTBR mice. The spleens and blood of BTBR mice also have more T helper type 1 (Th1), T helper type 2 (Th2) and T regulatory (Treg) cells compared to B6 mice. Aire expression in the thymus and spleen of BTBR mice compared to B6 mice was equivalent and lower, respectively. The mature natural killer (NK) innate immune cell population in blood and spleen is lower in BTBR than B6 mice; NK cell development is blocked prior to the double positive (DN) CD11b+CD27+ stage in BTBR mice. Since BTBR mice have more CD4+ T cells and elevated numbers of Th1 (T-bet+) and Th2 (GATA3+) cells, their low defense against pathogen may be explained by the lower number of NK cells and the significantly lower Th1 to Th2 ratio. The elevated number of plasma cells and autoantibodies of BTBR mice may be due to less presence and function of splenic AIRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Nizam Uddin
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Yunyi Yao
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Kevin Manley
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States
| | - David A Lawrence
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States; University at Albany School of Public Health, Rensselaer, NY, United States.
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11
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Abstract
One of the most pertinent applications of image analysis is face recognition and one of the most common genetic disorders is Down syndrome (DS), which is caused by chromosome abnormalities in humans. It is currently a challenge in computer vision in the domain of DS face recognition to build an automated system that equals the human ability to recognize face as one of the symmetrical structures in the body. Consequently, the use of machine learning methods has facilitated the recognition of facial dysmorphic features associated with DS. This paper aims to present a concise review of DS face recognition using the currently published literature by following the generic face recognition pipeline (face detection, feature extraction, and classification) and to identify critical knowledge gaps and directions for future research. The technologies underlying facial analysis presented in recent studies have helped expert clinicians in general genetic disorders and DS prediction.
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12
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Nadeem A, Ahmad SF, Attia SM, Al-Ayadhi LY, Al-Harbi NO, Bakheet SA. Dysregulation in IL-6 receptors is associated with upregulated IL-17A related signaling in CD4+ T cells of children with autism. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 97:109783. [PMID: 31655158 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous syndrome characterized by dysregulations in speech and social interactions as well as repetitive and stereotypical behavioral patterns in which immune system plays a significant role. IL-6, an essential cytokine for polarization of Th0 cells into Th17 cells has been demonstrated to be crucial in the etiology of ASD in past studies both in humans and mice. Th17 cells are also believed to be central players in the pathogenesis of ASD through release of IL-17A. However, there is still insufficient data regarding identification of Th17 cells with respect to IL-6 signaling in ASD subjects. Therefore, this study explored IL-6 receptors (IL-6R/sIL-6R) and Th17 (p-STAT3/IL-17A/IL-23R) related markers comprehensively in the blood of typically-developing control (TDC, n = 35) and ASD children (n = 45). Our data show that there is enhanced sIL-6R levels in plasma and CD4+ T cells of ASD subjects as compared to TDC group. Increased sIL-6R signaling is associated with upregulated Th17 development in ASD subjects. Further, severe ASD subjects have higher inflammation in terms of IL-6/IL-17A related signaling as compared to moderate ASD patients. Furthermore, treatment of CD4 + T cells in vitro with IL-6 leads to much greater upregulation of p-STAT3, and IL-17A in ASD subjects than similarly treated CD4+ T cells in TDC group. Antagonism of IL-6 signaling by SC144 in vitro led to blockade of IL-6 mediated effects on CD4+ T cells. These data display unequivocally that IL-6 signaling components are dysregulated which play a crucial in enhancement of Th17 development in ASD subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Y Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, AL-Amodi Autism Research Chair, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif O Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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13
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Thom RP, Keary CJ, Palumbo ML, Ravichandran CT, Mullett JE, Hazen EP, Neumeyer AM, McDougle CJ. Beyond the brain: A multi-system inflammatory subtype of autism spectrum disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:3045-3061. [PMID: 31139876 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05280-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
An immune-mediated subtype of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has long been hypothesized. This article reviews evidence from family history studies of autoimmunity, immunogenetics, maternal immune activation, neuroinflammation, and systemic inflammation, which suggests immune dysfunction in ASD. Individuals with ASD have higher rates of co-morbid medical illness than the general population. Major medical co-morbidities associated with ASD are discussed by body system. Mechanisms by which FDA-approved and emerging treatments for ASD act upon the immune system are then reviewed. We conclude by proposing the hypothesis of an immune-mediated subtype of ASD which is characterized by systemic, multi-organ inflammation or immune dysregulation with shared mechanisms that drive both the behavioral and physical illnesses associated with ASD. Although gaps in evidence supporting this hypothesis remain, benefits of this conceptualization include framing future research questions that will help define a clinically meaningful subset of patients and focusing clinical interactions on early detection and treatment of high-risk medical illnesses as well as interfering behavioral signs and symptoms across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn P Thom
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Christopher J Keary
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA
| | - Michelle L Palumbo
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Caitlin T Ravichandran
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer E Mullett
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA
| | - Eric P Hazen
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ann M Neumeyer
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA, 02114, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA, 02115, USA. .,Lurie Center for Autism, 1 Maguire Road, Lexington, MA, 02421, USA.
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14
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Mehra C, Sil A, Hedderly T, Kyriakopoulos M, Lim M, Turnbull J, Happe F, Baird G, Absoud M. Childhood disintegrative disorder and autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Dev Med Child Neurol 2019; 61:523-534. [PMID: 30548847 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM In an attempt to clarify the debate surrounding the diagnostic validity of childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), we systematically reviewed its characteristics and compared it with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHOD Four databases were searched (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and Web of Science). Included articles had participants with CDD, as defined by symptoms present in the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision and the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision. Comparison groups were those with ASD and ASD with regression. Case studies were excluded. RESULTS Twenty articles, comprising 96 participants with CDD (80 males, 16 females), were included. Most studies were cross-sectional. The prevalence of CDD was 1.1 to 9.2 per 100 000, with a mean age at regression of 3 years 2 months (SD 1y 1mo), with a range of 2 years to 7 years. In addition to core CDD symptoms, most had intellectual impairment, anxiety, challenging behaviours, and regressed in toileting skills. Participants with CDD and ASD shared core diagnostic and extra-diagnostic features. However, participants with CDD seemed to have more severe symptoms and a different symptom profile, including apparently typical development before regression, faster regression, more affective symptoms, and more global developmental deficit. Possible genetic and autoimmune neurobiological mechanisms were identified. INTERPRETATION There is limited high-quality evidence describing the aetiology and outcomes of CDD. However, given the qualitative and prognostic differences between ASD and CDD, we recommend that future diagnostic criteria should distinguish late-onset regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirag Mehra
- Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Annesha Sil
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Tammy Hedderly
- Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Marinos Kyriakopoulos
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- National and Specialist Acorn Lodge Inpatient Children's Unit, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Clinical Academic Group, South London and the Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ming Lim
- Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Jessica Turnbull
- Evelina London Community Children's Services, Sunshine House Children and Young People's Development Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Francesca Happe
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gillian Baird
- Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Michael Absoud
- Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, London, UK
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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15
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Nadeem A, Ahmad SF, Attia SM, Al-Ayadhi LY, Bakheet SA, Al-Harbi NO. Oxidative and inflammatory mediators are upregulated in neutrophils of autistic children: Role of IL-17A receptor signaling. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 90:204-211. [PMID: 30529000 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by repetitive behaviors, impaired social communication and stereotyped interests, and often associated with dysregulations in innate/adaptive immune cells. IL-17A has been linked with abnormal behavioral patterns observed in autistic children and animal models of autism. However, it is yet to be investigated if IL-17A and its receptors are implicated in regulation of oxidative and inflammatory mediators in neutrophils of ASD patients. Therefore, we pursued to identify the effect of IL-17 receptor (IL-17R), and its inflammatory potential in neutrophils from ASD (n = 45) and typically developing control (TDC; n = 40) subjects. IL-17A, its receptor (IL-17R), associated signaling pathways [nuclear transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), IL-6 and oxidative stress parameters such as NADPH oxidase (NOX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitrotyrosine] were determined in the neutrophils from TDC and ASD subjects. Our data show that IL-17A expression, and IL-17R are increased in neutrophils of ASD patients. Further, inflammatory signaling pathways such as such as phospho-NFκB, and ROS generating enzymes, i.e. NOX2/iNOS are increased in neutrophils of ASD patients as compared TDC subjects. Furthermore, activation of IL-17A/IL-17R signaling in neutrophils of ASD subjects leads to upregulation of phospho-NFκB, IL-6 and NOX2/ROS, thus suggesting a compelling role of IL-17A in modulation of inflammation. Our study displays for the first time that IL-17A/IL-17R signaling in neutrophils could play a pivotal role in autism through upregulation of oxidative and inflammatory mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Y Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif O Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Danesi C, Keinänen K, Castrén ML. Dysregulated Ca 2+-Permeable AMPA Receptor Signaling in Neural Progenitors Modeling Fragile X Syndrome. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2019; 11:2. [PMID: 30800064 PMCID: PMC6375879 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2019.00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that represents a common cause of intellectual disability and is a variant of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Studies that have searched for similarities in syndromic and non-syndromic forms of ASD have paid special attention to alterations of maturation and function of glutamatergic synapses. Copy number variations (CNVs) in the loci containing genes encoding alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptors (AMPARs) subunits are associated with ASD in genetic studies. In FXS, dysregulated AMPAR subunit expression and trafficking affect neural progenitor differentiation and synapse formation and neuronal plasticity in the mature brain. Decreased expression of GluA2, the AMPAR subunit that critically controls Ca2+-permeability, and a concomitant increase in Ca2+-permeable AMPARs (CP-AMPARs) in human and mouse FXS neural progenitors parallels changes in expression of GluA2-targeting microRNAs (miRNAs). Thus, posttranscriptional regulation of GluA2 by miRNAs and subsequent alterations in calcium signaling may contribute to abnormal synaptic function in FXS and, by implication, in some forms of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Danesi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kari Keinänen
- Research Program in Molecular and Integrative Biosciences, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maija L Castrén
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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17
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Increased expression of BDNF mRNA in the frontal cortex of autistic patients. Behav Brain Res 2019; 359:903-909. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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18
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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: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [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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19
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Tanabe S, Yamashita T. The role of immune cells in brain development and neurodevelopmental diseases. Int Immunol 2018; 30:437-444. [DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxy041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Tanabe
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toshihide Yamashita
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, World Premier International Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita-shi, Osaka, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita-shi, Osaka, Japan
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita-shi, Osaka, Japan
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20
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Increased vitamin D receptor gene expression and rs11568820 and rs4516035 promoter polymorphisms in autistic disorder. Mol Biol Rep 2018; 45:541-546. [PMID: 29777458 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-018-4191-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Although there are a large number of sequence variants of different genes and copy number variations at various loci identified in autistic disorder (AD) patients, the pathogenesis of AD has not been elucidated completely. Recently, in AD patients, a large number of expression array and transcriptome studies have shown an increase in the expression of genes especially related to innate immune response. Antimicrobial effects of vitamin D and VDR are exerted through Toll-Like-Receptors (TLR) which have an important role in the innate immune response, are expressed by antigen presenting cells and recognize foreign microorganisms. In this study, age and gender matched 30 patients diagnosed with AD and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. Comparatively whole blood VDR gene expression and rs11568820 and rs4516035 SNP profile of the promoter region of the VDR gene were investigated by real time PCR. Whole blood VDR gene expression was significantly higher in the AD group compared to control subjects (p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences among allele and genotype distribution of rs11568820 and rs4516035 polymorphisms between AD patients and controls. The increase of VDR gene expression in patients with AD may be in accordance with an increase in the innate immune response in patients with AD. Furthermore, this study will stimulate new studies in order to clarify the relationship among AD, vitamin D, VDR, and innate immunity.
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21
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Identifying Patients with Atrioventricular Septal Defect in Down Syndrome Populations by Using Self-Normalizing Neural Networks and Feature Selection. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9040208. [PMID: 29649131 PMCID: PMC5924550 DOI: 10.3390/genes9040208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) is a clinically significant subtype of congenital heart disease (CHD) that severely influences the health of babies during birth and is associated with Down syndrome (DS). Thus, exploring the differences in functional genes in DS samples with and without AVSD is a critical way to investigate the complex association between AVSD and DS. In this study, we present a computational method to distinguish DS patients with AVSD from those without AVSD using the newly proposed self-normalizing neural network (SNN). First, each patient was encoded by using the copy number of probes on chromosome 21. The encoded features were ranked by the reliable Monte Carlo feature selection (MCFS) method to obtain a ranked feature list. Based on this feature list, we used a two-stage incremental feature selection to construct two series of feature subsets and applied SNNs to build classifiers to identify optimal features. Results show that 2737 optimal features were obtained, and the corresponding optimal SNN classifier constructed on optimal features yielded a Matthew’s correlation coefficient (MCC) value of 0.748. For comparison, random forest was also used to build classifiers and uncover optimal features. This method received an optimal MCC value of 0.582 when top 132 features were utilized. Finally, we analyzed some key features derived from the optimal features in SNNs found in literature support to further reveal their essential roles.
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22
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Gulmez Karaca K, Brito DVC, Zeuch B, Oliveira AMM. Adult hippocampal MeCP2 preserves the genomic responsiveness to learning required for long-term memory formation. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2018; 149:84-97. [PMID: 29438740 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2018.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 02/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
MeCP2 is required both during postnatal neurodevelopment and throughout the adult life for brain function. Although it is well accepted that MeCP2 in the maturing nervous system is critical for establishing normal development, the functions of MeCP2 during adulthood are poorly understood. Particularly, the requirement of hippocampal MeCP2 for cognitive abilities in the adult is not studied. To characterize the role of MeCP2 in adult neuronal function and cognition, we used a temporal and region-specific disruption of MeCP2 expression in the hippocampus of adult male mice. We found that MeCP2 is required for long-term memory formation and that it controls the learning-induced transcriptional response of hippocampal neurons required for memory consolidation. Furthermore, we uncovered MeCP2 functions in the adult hippocampus that may underlie cognitive integrity. We showed that MeCP2 maintains the developmentally established chromatin configuration and epigenetic landscape of CA1 neurons throughout the adulthood, and that it regulates the expression of neuronal and immune-related genes in the adult hippocampus. Overall, our findings identify MeCP2 as a maintenance factor in the adult hippocampus that preserves signal responsiveness of the genome and allows for integrity of cognitive functions. This study provides new insight into how MeCP2 maintains adult brain functions, but also into the mechanisms underlying the cognitive impairments observed in RTT patients and highlights the understudied role of DNA methylation interpretation in adult cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kubra Gulmez Karaca
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), University of Heidelberg, INF 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - David V C Brito
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), University of Heidelberg, INF 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Zeuch
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), University of Heidelberg, INF 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ana M M Oliveira
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), University of Heidelberg, INF 364, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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23
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Deacon RMJ, Hurley MJ, Rebolledo CM, Snape M, Altimiras FJ, Farías L, Pino M, Biekofsky R, Glass L, Cogram P. Retracted: Nrf2: a novel therapeutic target in fragile X syndrome is modulated by NNZ2566. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2017; 16:739. [PMID: 28211606 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Retraction: "Nrf2: a novel therapeutic target in fragile X syndrome is modulated by NNZ2566" by R. M. J. Deacon, M. J. Hurley, C. M. Rebolledo, M. Snape, F. J. Altimiras, L. Farías, M. Pino, R. Biekofsky, L. Glass and P. Cogram. The above article, from Genes, Brain and Behavior, published online on 12th May 2017 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Andrew Holmes and John Wiley & Sons Ltd. The retraction has been agreed as all authors cannot agree on a revised author order, and at least one author continues to dispute the original order. In this case, the original article is being retracted on the grounds that the journal does not have permission to publish. Reference: Deacon, R. M. J., Hurley, M. J., Rebolledo, C. M., Snape, M., Altimiras, F. J., Farías, L., Pino, M., Biekofsky, R., Glass, L. and Cogram, P. (2017), Nrf2: a novel therapeutic target in fragile X syndrome is modulated by NNZ2566. Genes, Brain and Behavior. doi:10.1111/gbb.12373.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M J Deacon
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Gen.DDI Ltd, London, UK
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M J Hurley
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Division of Brain Sciences, Centre for Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - C M Rebolledo
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Snape
- AMO Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Huntingdon, UK
| | - F J Altimiras
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile
| | - L Farías
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Pino
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - L Glass
- Neuren Pharmaceuticals, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - P Cogram
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Institute Of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB), Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Sivanesan S, Tan A, Jeyaraj R, Lam J, Gole M, Hardan A, Ashkan K, Rajadas J. Pharmaceuticals and Stem Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Wishful Thinking? World Neurosurg 2017; 98:659-672. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.09.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Meltzer A, Van de Water J. The Role of the Immune System in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology 2017; 42:284-298. [PMID: 27534269 PMCID: PMC5143489 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2016.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 301] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in communication and social skills as well as repetitive and stereotypical behaviors. While much effort has focused on the identification of genes associated with autism, research emerging within the past two decades suggests that immune dysfunction is a viable risk factor contributing to the neurodevelopmental deficits observed in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Further, it is the heterogeneity within this disorder that has brought to light much of the current thinking regarding the subphenotypes within ASD and how the immune system is associated with these distinctions. This review will focus on the two main axes of immune involvement in ASD, namely dysfunction in the prenatal and postnatal periods. During gestation, prenatal insults including maternal infection and subsequent immunological activation may increase the risk of autism in the child. Similarly, the presence of maternally derived anti-brain autoantibodies found in ~20% of mothers whose children are at risk for developing autism has defined an additional subphenotype of ASD. The postnatal environment, on the other hand, is characterized by related but distinct profiles of immune dysregulation, inflammation, and endogenous autoantibodies that all persist within the affected individual. Further definition of the role of immune dysregulation in ASD thus necessitates a deeper understanding of the interaction between both maternal and child immune systems, and the role they have in diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amory Meltzer
- Division of Rheumatology/Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Division of Rheumatology/Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- NIEHS Center for Children's Environmental Health, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Ma K, Li F, Yu Y, Li H. Screening of potential biomarkers for prenatal diagnosis of trisomy 21. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2016; 37:435-440. [PMID: 28019128 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2016.1250730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to identify key genes located on chromosome 21 as potential biomarkers for prenatal diagnosis of trisomy 21 (Ts21). The microarray data of GSE48051, including 10 cultivated amniocyte samples with Ts21 and 9 controls with normal euploid constitution, was obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cultivated amniocyte samples with Ts21 compared to normal controls were screened using limma package. Then, we performed GO enrichment analysis using DAVID and chromosomal location of DEGs based on the information of the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) Genome Browser Database. Finally, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis was performed using STRING. Total 155 DEGs in cultivated amniocyte samples with Ts21 were identified, including 89 up- and 66 down-regulated DEGs. The over-represented GO terms of DEGs were mainly related with apoptosis, programmed cell death and cell death. In total, 13 DEGs were located on chromosome 21, thereinto, only 6 DEGs were included into the PPI network, including superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), phosphoribosylglycinamide formyltransferase, phosphoribosylglycinamide synthetase, phosphoribosylaminoimidazole synthetase (GART), downstream neighbour of SON (DONSON), ATP synthase, H + transporting, mitochondrial F1 complex, O subunit (ATP5O), chromatin assembly factor 1, subunit B (p60) (CHAF1B) and proteasome (prosome, macropain) assembly chaperone 1 (PSMG1). Our results suggest that SOD1, GART, DONSON, ATP5O, CHAF1B and PSMG1 may play important roles in the pathogenesis of Down syndrome and may serve as potential biomarkers for prenatal diagnosis of Ts21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ma
- a Department of Pediatric Emergency , First Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun , Jilin , China
| | - Feng Li
- a Department of Pediatric Emergency , First Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun , Jilin , China
| | - Yang Yu
- b Department of Clinical Laboratory , Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University , Changchun , Jilin , China
| | - Haibo Li
- a Department of Pediatric Emergency , First Hospital of Jilin University , Changchun , Jilin , China
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Kaufmann WE, Stallworth JL, Everman DB, Skinner SA. Neurobiologically-based treatments in Rett syndrome: opportunities and challenges. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2016; 4:1043-1055. [PMID: 28163986 PMCID: PMC5214376 DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2016.1229181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects females, typically resulting in a period of developmental regression in early childhood followed by stabilization and severe chronic cognitive, behavioral, and physical disability. No known treatment exists beyond symptomatic management, and while insights into the genetic cause, pathophysiology, neurobiology, and natural history of RTT have been gained, many challenges remain. Areas covered: Based on a comprehensive survey of the primary literature on RTT, this article describes and comments upon the general and unique features of the disorder, genetic and neurobiological bases of drug development, and the history of clinical trials in RTT, with an emphasis on drug trial design, outcome measures, and implementation. Expert opinion: Neurobiologically based drug trials are the ultimate goal in RTT, and due to the complexity and global nature of the disorder, drugs targeting both general mechanisms (e.g., growth factors) and specific systems (e.g., glutamate modulators) could be effective. Trial design should optimize data on safety and efficacy, but selection of outcome measures with adequate measurement properties, as well as innovative strategies, such as those enhancing synaptic plasticity and use of biomarkers, are essential for progress in RTT and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter E Kaufmann
- Center for Translational Research, Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, USA; Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - David B Everman
- Center for Translational Research, Greenwood Genetic Center , Greenwood , SC , USA
| | - Steven A Skinner
- Center for Translational Research, Greenwood Genetic Center , Greenwood , SC , USA
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29
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Absoud M. Emerging concepts in therapies for autism spectrum disorder. BJPSYCH ADVANCES 2016. [DOI: 10.1192/apt.bp.115.015578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
SummaryAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous disorder with clearly recognisable core features, but without reliable biomarkers as yet. It has a high rate of comorbid psychiatric disorders which need to be identified and appropriately treated. Emerging concepts in genetics, pathobiology and outcome measurement have potential to significantly advance the treatment of both ASD and its comorbidities over the following decades.
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Edmonson CA, Ziats MN, Rennert OM. A Non-inflammatory Role for Microglia in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Neurol 2016; 7:9. [PMID: 26869989 PMCID: PMC4734207 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2016.00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction, difficulties with language, and repetitive/restricted behaviors. The etiology of ASD is still largely unclear, but immune dysfunction and abnormalities in synaptogenesis have repeatedly been implicated as contributing to the disease phenotype. However, an understanding of how and if these two processes are related has not firmly been established. As non-inflammatory roles of microglia become increasingly recognized as critical to normal neurodevelopment, it is important to consider how dysfunction in these processes might explain the seemingly disparate findings of immune dysfunction and aberrant synaptogenesis seen in ASD. In this review, we highlight research demonstrating the importance of microglia to the development of normal neural networks, review recent studies demonstrating abnormal microglia in autism, and discuss how the relationship between these processes may contribute to the development of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Edmonson
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA; National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark N Ziats
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Owen M Rennert
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health , Bethesda, MD , USA
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31
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Lintas C, Picinelli C, Piras IS, Sacco R, Gabriele S, Verdecchia M, Persico AM. Xp22.33p22.12 Duplication in a Patient with Intellectual Disability and Dysmorphic Facial Features. Mol Syndromol 2016; 6:236-41. [PMID: 26997944 DOI: 10.1159/000443232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel 19.98-Mb duplication in chromosome Xp22.33p22.12 was detected by array CGH in a 30-year-old man affected by intellectual disability, congenital hypotonia and dysmorphic features. The duplication encompasses more than 100 known genes. Many of these genes (such as neuroligin 4, cyclin-dependent kinase like 5, and others) have already correlated with X-linked intellectual disability and/or neurodevelopmental disorders. Due to the high number of potentially pathogenic genes involved in the reported duplication, we cannot correlate the clinical phenotype to a single gene. Indeed, we suggest that the resulting clinical phenotype may have arisen from the overexpression and consequent perturbation of fine gene dosage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Lintas
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy; Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Picinelli
- Mafalda Luce Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Milan, Italy
| | - Ignazio S Piras
- Mafalda Luce Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Sacco
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy; Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Gabriele
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Magda Verdecchia
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio M Persico
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy; Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy; Mafalda Luce Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Milan, Italy
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32
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Ivanov HY, Stoyanova VK, Popov NT, Vachev TI. Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Complex Genetic Disorder. Folia Med (Plovdiv) 2015; 57:19-28. [PMID: 26431091 DOI: 10.1515/folmed-2015-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 03/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is an entity that reflects a scientific consensus that several previously separated disorders are actually a single spectrum disorder with different levels of symptom severity in two core domains - deficits in social communication and interaction, and restricted repetitive behaviors. Autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups and because of its increased prevalence, reported worldwide through the last years, made it one of the most discussed child psychiatric disorders. In term of aetiology as several other complex diseases, Autism spectrum disorder is considered to have a strong genetic component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hristo Y Ivanov
- Department of Pediatrics and Medical Genetics, Medical Faculty, Medical University, Plovdiv
| | - Vili K Stoyanova
- Department of Pediatrics and Medical Genetics, Medical Faculty, Medical University, Plovdiv,Department of Medical Genetics, St. George University Hospital, Plovdiv
| | - Nikolay T Popov
- Psychiatric Ward for Men, State Psychiatric Hospital, Pazardzhik
| | - Tihomir I Vachev
- Department of Pediatrics and Medical Genetics, Medical Faculty, Medical University, Plovdiv,Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, Paisii Hilendarski University, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex behavioral condition with onset during early childhood and a lifelong course in the vast majority of cases. To date, no behavioral, genetic, brain imaging, or electrophysiological test can specifically validate a clinical diagnosis of ASD. However, these medical procedures are often implemented in order to screen for syndromic forms of the disorder (i.e., autism comorbid with known medical conditions). In the last 25 years a good deal of information has been accumulated on the main components of the "endocannabinoid (eCB) system", a rather complex ensemble of lipid signals ("endocannabinoids"), their target receptors, purported transporters, and metabolic enzymes. It has been clearly documented that eCB signaling plays a key role in many human health and disease conditions of the central nervous system, thus opening the avenue to the therapeutic exploitation of eCB-oriented drugs for the treatment of psychiatric, neurodegenerative, and neuroinflammatory disorders. Here we present a modern view of the eCB system, and alterations of its main components in human patients and animal models relevant to ASD. This review will thus provide a critical perspective necessary to explore the potential exploitation of distinct elements of eCB system as targets of innovative therapeutics against ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhismadev Chakrabarti
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Antonio Persico
- Center of Integrated Research and School of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128, Rome, Italy
- Mafalda Luce Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Milan, Italy
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Center of Integrated Research and School of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128, Rome, Italy.
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC)/Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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Mahfouz A, Ziats MN, Rennert OM, Lelieveldt BPF, Reinders MJT. Shared Pathways Among Autism Candidate Genes Determined by Co-expression Network Analysis of the Developing Human Brain Transcriptome. J Mol Neurosci 2015; 57:580-94. [PMID: 26399424 PMCID: PMC4644211 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-015-0641-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental syndrome known to have a significant but complex genetic etiology. Hundreds of diverse genes have been implicated in ASD; yet understanding how many genes, each with disparate function, can all be linked to a single clinical phenotype remains unclear. We hypothesized that understanding functional relationships between autism candidate genes during normal human brain development may provide convergent mechanistic insight into the genetic heterogeneity of ASD. We analyzed the co-expression relationships of 455 genes previously implicated in autism using the BrainSpan human transcriptome database, across 16 anatomical brain regions spanning prenatal life through adulthood. We discovered modules of ASD candidate genes with biologically relevant temporal co-expression dynamics, which were enriched for functional ontologies related to synaptogenesis, apoptosis, and GABA-ergic neurons. Furthermore, we also constructed co-expression networks from the entire transcriptome and found that ASD candidate genes were enriched in modules related to mitochondrial function, protein translation, and ubiquitination. Hub genes central to these ASD-enriched modules were further identified, and their functions supported these ontological findings. Overall, our multi-dimensional co-expression analysis of ASD candidate genes in the normal developing human brain suggests the heterogeneous set of ASD candidates share transcriptional networks related to synapse formation and elimination, protein turnover, and mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Mahfouz
- Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands. .,Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Mark N Ziats
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Owen M Rennert
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Boudewijn P F Lelieveldt
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Intelligent Systems, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel J T Reinders
- Delft Bioinformatics Lab, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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Hose J, Yong CM, Sardi M, Wang Z, Newton MA, Gasch AP. Dosage compensation can buffer copy-number variation in wild yeast. eLife 2015; 4. [PMID: 25955966 PMCID: PMC4448642 DOI: 10.7554/elife.05462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aneuploidy is linked to myriad diseases but also facilitates organismal evolution. It remains unclear how cells overcome the deleterious effects of aneuploidy until new phenotypes evolve. Although laboratory strains are extremely sensitive to aneuploidy, we show here that aneuploidy is common in wild yeast isolates, which show lower-than-expected expression at many amplified genes. We generated diploid strain panels in which cells carried two, three, or four copies of the affected chromosomes, to show that gene-dosage compensation functions at >30% of amplified genes. Genes subject to dosage compensation are under higher expression constraint in wild populations—but they show elevated rates of gene amplification, suggesting that copy-number variation is buffered at these genes. We find that aneuploidy provides a clear ecological advantage to oak strain YPS1009, by amplifying a causal gene that escapes dosage compensation. Our work presents a model in which dosage compensation buffers gene amplification through aneuploidy to provide a natural, but likely transient, route to rapid phenotypic evolution. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.05462.001 Evolution is driven by changes to the genes and other genetic information found in the DNA of an organism. These changes might, for example, alter the physical characteristics of the organism, or change how efficiently crucial tasks are carried out inside cells. Whatever the change, if it makes it easier for the organism to survive and reproduce, it is more likely to be passed on to future generations. DNA is organized inside cells in structures called chromosomes. Most of the cells in animals, plants, and fungi contain two copies of each chromosome. However, sometimes mistakes happen during cell division and extra copies of a chromosome—and hence the genes contained within it—may end up in a cell. These extra copies of genes might help to speed up the rate at which a species evolves, as the ‘spare’ copies are free to adapt to new roles. However, having extra copies of genes can also often be harmful, and in humans can cause genetic disorders such as Down syndrome. In the laboratory, chromosomes are commonly studied in a species of yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This species consists of several groups—or strains—that are genetically distinct from each other. Over the years, breeding the yeast for experiments has created laboratory strains that have lost some of the characteristics seen in wild strains. Earlier studies suggested that these cells fail to grow properly if they contain extra copies of chromosomes. Now, Hose et al. have studied nearly 50 wild strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In these, extra copies of chromosomes are commonplace, and seemingly have no detrimental effect on growth. Instead, Hose et al. found that cells with too many copies of a gene use many of those genes less often than would be expected. This process is known as ‘dosage compensation’. This dosage compensation has not been observed in laboratory strains, in part because the extra gene copies make them sickly and hard to study. Together, the results provide examples of how dosage compensation could help new traits to evolve in a species by reducing the negative effects of duplicated genes. This knowledge may have broad application, from suggesting methods to alleviate human disorders to implicating new ways to engineer useful traits in yeast and other microbes. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.05462.002
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hose
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Chris Mun Yong
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Maria Sardi
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Zhishi Wang
- Department of Statistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Michael A Newton
- Department of Statistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Audrey P Gasch
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
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Abstract
Modified RNA molecules have recently been shown to regulate nervous system functions. This mini-review and associated mini-symposium provide an overview of the types and known functions of novel modified RNAs in the nervous system, including covalently modified RNAs, edited RNAs, and circular RNAs. We discuss basic molecular mechanisms involving RNA modifications as well as the impact of modified RNAs and their regulation on neuronal processes and disorders, including neural fate specification, intellectual disability, neurodegeneration, dopamine neuron function, and substance use disorders.
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Yao Y, Jiang Y, Han M, Xia Y, He Y, Wang Y, Luo Y, Zhang B. Screening and identification of potential predictive biomarkers for Down's syndrome from second trimester maternal serum. Expert Rev Proteomics 2014; 12:97-107. [PMID: 25434962 DOI: 10.1586/14789450.2015.979796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to search for noninvasive predictive biomarkers for prenatal diagnosis of Down's syndrome (DS). METHODS Maternal serum samples from five DS-affected pregnant women and five DS-unaffected women were analyzed by 2D gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry to screen for potential predictive biomarkers of DS. Then, differential levels of dGTPase, β2-glycoprotein I (β2-GPI), complement factor H-related protein 1 precursor (CFHR1) and kininogen 1 isoform 2 were further verified by western blotting tests in another independent group. RESULTS Statistical analysis results revealed 29 protein spots whose levels differed significantly in the DS-affected pregnancies group. Of these, the eight most differentially expressed in DP were identified successfully. Among these, levels of dGTPase, CFHR1 and kininogen 1 were elevated significantly, whereas β2-GPI was reduced in DP. DISCUSSION These preliminarily verified proteins might serve as potential predictive biomarkers for DS-affected pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
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38
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Blanco S, Dietmann S, Flores JV, Hussain S, Kutter C, Humphreys P, Lukk M, Lombard P, Treps L, Popis M, Kellner S, Hölter SM, Garrett L, Wurst W, Becker L, Klopstock T, Fuchs H, Gailus-Durner V, Hrabĕ de Angelis M, Káradóttir RT, Helm M, Ule J, Gleeson JG, Odom DT, Frye M. Aberrant methylation of tRNAs links cellular stress to neuro-developmental disorders. EMBO J 2014; 33:2020-39. [PMID: 25063673 PMCID: PMC4195770 DOI: 10.15252/embj.201489282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 420] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the cytosine-5 RNA methyltransferase NSun2 cause microcephaly and other neurological abnormalities in mice and human. How post-transcriptional methylation contributes to the human disease is currently unknown. By comparing gene expression data with global cytosine-5 RNA methylomes in patient fibroblasts and NSun2-deficient mice, we find that loss of cytosine-5 RNA methylation increases the angiogenin-mediated endonucleolytic cleavage of transfer RNAs (tRNA) leading to an accumulation of 5' tRNA-derived small RNA fragments. Accumulation of 5' tRNA fragments in the absence of NSun2 reduces protein translation rates and activates stress pathways leading to reduced cell size and increased apoptosis of cortical, hippocampal and striatal neurons. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that angiogenin binds with higher affinity to tRNAs lacking site-specific NSun2-mediated methylation and that the presence of 5' tRNA fragments is sufficient and required to trigger cellular stress responses. Furthermore, the enhanced sensitivity of NSun2-deficient brains to oxidative stress can be rescued through inhibition of angiogenin during embryogenesis. In conclusion, failure in NSun2-mediated tRNA methylation contributes to human diseases via stress-induced RNA cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Blanco
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joana V Flores
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Shobbir Hussain
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Claudia Kutter
- Li Ka Shing Centre, CR-UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Humphreys
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Margus Lukk
- Li Ka Shing Centre, CR-UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Patrick Lombard
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Martyna Popis
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stefanie Kellner
- Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Institute for Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sabine M Hölter
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Lillian Garrett
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Munich, Germany
| | - Lore Becker
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute for Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders, Munich, Germany Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Baur-Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Helmut Fuchs
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute for Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Valerie Gailus-Durner
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute for Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabĕ de Angelis
- German Mouse Clinic, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany Institute for Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Ragnhildur T Káradóttir
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark Helm
- Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Institute for Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jernej Ule
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Joseph G Gleeson
- Laboratory of Pediatric Brain Diseases, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Duncan T Odom
- Li Ka Shing Centre, CR-UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michaela Frye
- Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Nevison CD. A comparison of temporal trends in United States autism prevalence to trends in suspected environmental factors. Environ Health 2014; 13:73. [PMID: 25189402 PMCID: PMC4177682 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-13-73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of diagnosed autism has increased rapidly over the last several decades among U.S. children. Environmental factors are thought to be driving this increase and a list of the top ten suspected environmental toxins was published recently. METHODS Temporal trends in autism for birth years 1970-2005 were derived from a combination of data from the California Department of Developmental Services (CDDS) and the United States Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Temporal trends in suspected toxins were derived from data compiled during an extensive literature survey. Toxin and autism trends were compared by visual inspection and computed correlation coefficients. Using IDEA data, autism prevalence vs. birth year trends were calculated independently from snapshots of data from the most recent annual report, and by tracking prevalence at a constant age over many years of reports. The ratio of the snapshot:tracking trend slopes was used to estimate the "real" fraction of the increase in autism. RESULTS The CDDS and IDEA data sets are qualitatively consistent in suggesting a strong increase in autism prevalence over recent decades. The quantitative comparison of IDEA snapshot and constant-age tracking trend slopes suggests that ~75-80% of the tracked increase in autism since 1988 is due to an actual increase in the disorder rather than to changing diagnostic criteria. Most of the suspected environmental toxins examined have flat or decreasing temporal trends that correlate poorly to the rise in autism. Some, including lead, organochlorine pesticides and vehicular emissions, have strongly decreasing trends. Among the suspected toxins surveyed, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, aluminum adjuvants, and the herbicide glyphosate have increasing trends that correlate positively to the rise in autism. CONCLUSIONS Diagnosed autism prevalence has risen dramatically in the U.S over the last several decades and continued to trend upward as of birth year 2005. The increase is mainly real and has occurred mostly since the late 1980s. In contrast, children's exposure to most of the top ten toxic compounds has remained flat or decreased over this same time frame. Environmental factors with increasing temporal trends can help suggest hypotheses for drivers of autism that merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia D Nevison
- Institute for Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309-0450, USA.
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40
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Blumenthal I, Ragavendran A, Erdin S, Klei L, Sugathan A, Guide J, Manavalan P, Zhou J, Wheeler V, Levin J, Ernst C, Roeder K, Devlin B, Gusella J, Talkowski M. Transcriptional consequences of 16p11.2 deletion and duplication in mouse cortex and multiplex autism families. Am J Hum Genet 2014; 94:870-83. [PMID: 24906019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reciprocal copy-number variation (CNV) of a 593 kb region of 16p11.2 is a common genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet it is not completely penetrant and can manifest in a wide array of phenotypes. To explore its molecular consequences, we performed RNA sequencing of cerebral cortex from mouse models with CNV of the syntenic 7qF3 region and lymphoblast lines from 34 members of 7 multiplex ASD-affected families harboring the 16p11.2 CNV. Expression of all genes in the CNV region correlated well with their DNA copy number, with no evidence of dosage compensation. We observed effects on gene expression outside the CNV region, including apparent positional effects in cis and in trans at genomic segments with evidence of physical interaction in Hi-C chromosome conformation data. One of the most significant positional effects was telomeric to the 16p11.2 CNV and includes the previously described "distal" 16p11.2 microdeletion. Overall, 16p11.2 CNV was associated with altered expression of genes and networks that converge on multiple hypotheses of ASD pathogenesis, including synaptic function (e.g., NRXN1, NRXN3), chromatin modification (e.g., CHD8, EHMT1, MECP2), transcriptional regulation (e.g., TCF4, SATB2), and intellectual disability (e.g., FMR1, CEP290). However, there were differences between tissues and species, with the strongest effects being consistently within the CNV region itself. Our analyses suggest that through a combination of indirect regulatory effects and direct effects on nuclear architecture, alteration of 16p11.2 genes disrupts expression networks that involve other genes and pathways known to contribute to ASD, suggesting an overlap in mechanisms of pathogenesis.
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Ruggeri B, Sarkans U, Schumann G, Persico AM. Biomarkers in autism spectrum disorder: the old and the new. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:1201-16. [PMID: 24096533 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3290-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with onset during early childhood and typically a life-long course. The majority of ASD cases stems from complex, 'multiple-hit', oligogenic/polygenic underpinnings involving several loci and possibly gene-environment interactions. These multiple layers of complexity spur interest into the identification of biomarkers able to define biologically homogeneous subgroups, predict autism risk prior to the onset of behavioural abnormalities, aid early diagnoses, predict the developmental trajectory of ASD children, predict response to treatment and identify children at risk for severe adverse reactions to psychoactive drugs. OBJECTIVES The present paper reviews (a) similarities and differences between the concepts of 'biomarker' and 'endophenotype', (b) established biomarkers and endophenotypes in autism research (biochemical, morphological, hormonal, immunological, neurophysiological and neuroanatomical, neuropsychological, behavioural), (c) -omics approaches towards the discovery of novel biomarker panels for ASD, (d) bioresource infrastructures and (e) data management for biomarker research in autism. RESULTS Known biomarkers, such as abnormal blood levels of serotonin, oxytocin, melatonin, immune cytokines and lymphocyte subtypes, multiple neuropsychological, electrophysiological and brain imaging parameters, will eventually merge with novel biomarkers identified using unbiased genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic methods, to generate multimarker panels. Bioresource infrastructures, data management and data analysis using artificial intelligence networks will be instrumental in supporting efforts to identify these biomarker panels. CONCLUSIONS Biomarker research has great heuristic potential in targeting autism diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruggeri
- MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
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42
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Maurin T, Zongaro S, Bardoni B. Fragile X Syndrome: from molecular pathology to therapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 46 Pt 2:242-55. [PMID: 24462888 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Revised: 01/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability due to the silencing of the FMR1 gene encoding FMRP (Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein), an RNA-binding protein involved in different steps of RNA metabolism. Of particular interest is the key role of FMRP in translational regulation. Since the first functional characterizations of FMRP, its role has been underlined by its association with actively translating polyribosomes. Furthermore, a plethora of mRNA targets of FMRP have been identified. In the absence of FMRP the deregulation of translation/transport/stability of these mRNAs has a cascade effect on many pathways, resulting into the final phenotype. We review here a set of targets of FMRP (mRNAs and proteins) that may have an impact on the FXS phenotype by deregulating some key cellular processes, such as translation, cytoskeleton remodeling and oxidative stress. The manipulation of these abnormal pathways by specific drugs may represent new therapeutic opportunities for FXS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Maurin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, CNRS UMR7275, University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, Route des Lucioles, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Samantha Zongaro
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, CNRS UMR7275, University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, Route des Lucioles, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Barbara Bardoni
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, CNRS UMR7275, University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, Route des Lucioles, 06560 Valbonne, France.
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Mezzelani A, Landini M, Facchiano F, Raggi ME, Villa L, Molteni M, De Santis B, Brera C, Caroli AM, Milanesi L, Marabotti A. Environment, dysbiosis, immunity and sex-specific susceptibility: a translational hypothesis for regressive autism pathogenesis. Nutr Neurosci 2014; 18:145-61. [PMID: 24621061 PMCID: PMC4485698 DOI: 10.1179/1476830513y.0000000108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Autism is an increasing neurodevelopmental disease that appears by 3 years of age, has genetic and/or environmental etiology, and often shows comorbid situations, such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Autism has also a striking sex-bias, not fully genetically explainable. Objective Our goal was to explain how and in which predisposing conditions some compounds can impair neurodevelopment, why this occurs in the first years of age, and, primarily, why more in males than females. Methods We reviewed articles regarding the genetic and environmental etiology of autism and toxins effects on animal models selected from PubMed and databases about autism and toxicology. Discussion Our hypothesis proposes that in the first year of life, the decreasing of maternal immune protection and child immune-system immaturity create an immune vulnerability to infection diseases that, especially if treated with antibiotics, could facilitate dysbiosis and GI disorders. This condition triggers a vicious circle between immune system impairment and increasing dysbiosis that leads to leaky gut and neurochemical compounds and/or neurotoxic xenobiotics production and absorption. This alteration affects the ‘gut-brain axis’ communication that connects gut with central nervous system via immune system. Thus, metabolic pathways impaired in autistic children can be affected by genetic alterations or by environment–xenobiotics interference. In addition, in animal models many xenobiotics exert their neurotoxicity in a sex-dependent manner. Conclusions We integrate fragmented and multi-disciplinary information in a unique hypothesis and first disclose a possible environmental origin for the imbalance of male:female distribution of autism, reinforcing the idea that exogenous factors are related to the recent rise of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Mezzelani
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
- Correspondence to: Alessandra Mezzelani, Institute for Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Milan, Segrate, Italy.
| | - Martina Landini
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
| | - Francesco Facchiano
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Elisabetta Raggi
- IRCCS “E. Medea” – Ass. “La Nostra Famiglia”, Via Don Luigi Monza, 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Laura Villa
- IRCCS “E. Medea” – Ass. “La Nostra Famiglia”, Via Don Luigi Monza, 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Massimo Molteni
- IRCCS “E. Medea” – Ass. “La Nostra Famiglia”, Via Don Luigi Monza, 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Barbara De Santis
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Carlo Brera
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Caroli
- Dip. Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia (BS), Italy
| | - Luciano Milanesi
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate (MI), Italy
| | - Anna Marabotti
- IRCCS “E. Medea” – Ass. “La Nostra Famiglia”, Via Don Luigi Monza, 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
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Nguyen M, Roth A, Kyzar EJ, Poudel MK, Wong K, Stewart AM, Kalueff AV. Decoding the contribution of dopaminergic genes and pathways to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Neurochem Int 2014; 66:15-26. [PMID: 24412511 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2013] [Revised: 12/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a debilitating brain illness causing social deficits, delayed development and repetitive behaviors. ASD is a heritable neurodevelopmental disorder with poorly understood and complex etiology. The central dopaminergic system is strongly implicated in ASD pathogenesis. Genes encoding various elements of this system (including dopamine receptors, the dopamine transporter or enzymes of synthesis and catabolism) have been linked to ASD. Here, we comprehensively evaluate known molecular interactors of dopaminergic genes, and identify their potential molecular partners within up/down-steam signaling pathways associated with dopamine. These in silico analyses allowed us to construct a map of molecular pathways, regulated by dopamine and involved in ASD. Clustering these pathways reveals groups of genes associated with dopamine metabolism, encoding proteins that control dopamine neurotransmission, cytoskeletal processes, synaptic release, Ca(2+) signaling, as well as the adenosine, glutamatergic and gamma-aminobutyric systems. Overall, our analyses emphasize the important role of the dopaminergic system in ASD, and implicate several cellular signaling processes in its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA
| | - Andrew Roth
- School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Evan J Kyzar
- College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 808 S. Wood Street, Room 165 CME, M/C 783, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Manoj K Poudel
- ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA
| | - Keith Wong
- University of California San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Adam Michael Stewart
- ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, A210 Langley Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA.
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45
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Sgadò P, Provenzano G, Dassi E, Adami V, Zunino G, Genovesi S, Casarosa S, Bozzi Y. Transcriptome profiling in engrailed-2 mutant mice reveals common molecular pathways associated with autism spectrum disorders. Mol Autism 2013; 4:51. [PMID: 24355397 PMCID: PMC3896729 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-4-51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcriptome analysis has been used in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to unravel common pathogenic pathways based on the assumption that distinct rare genetic variants or epigenetic modifications affect common biological pathways. To unravel recurrent ASD-related neuropathological mechanisms, we took advantage of the En2-/- mouse model and performed transcriptome profiling on cerebellar and hippocampal adult tissues. METHODS Cerebellar and hippocampal tissue samples from three En2-/- and wild type (WT) littermate mice were assessed for differential gene expression using microarray hybridization followed by RankProd analysis. To identify functional categories overrepresented in the differentially expressed genes, we used integrated gene-network analysis, gene ontology enrichment and mouse phenotype ontology analysis. Furthermore, we performed direct enrichment analysis of ASD-associated genes from the SFARI repository in our differentially expressed genes. RESULTS Given the limited number of animals used in the study, we used permissive criteria and identified 842 differentially expressed genes in En2-/- cerebellum and 862 in the En2-/- hippocampus. Our functional analysis revealed that the molecular signature of En2-/- cerebellum and hippocampus shares convergent pathological pathways with ASD, including abnormal synaptic transmission, altered developmental processes and increased immune response. Furthermore, when directly compared to the repository of the SFARI database, our differentially expressed genes in the hippocampus showed enrichment of ASD-associated genes significantly higher than previously reported. qPCR was performed for representative genes to confirm relative transcript levels compared to those detected in microarrays. CONCLUSIONS Despite the limited number of animals used in the study, our bioinformatic analysis indicates the En2-/- mouse is a valuable tool for investigating molecular alterations related to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Sgadò
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Giovanni Provenzano
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Erik Dassi
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Valentina Adami
- High Throughput Screening Core Facility, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Giulia Zunino
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Sacha Genovesi
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Simona Casarosa
- Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy.,C.N.R. Neuroscience Institute, via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Yuri Bozzi
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy.,C.N.R. Neuroscience Institute, via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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46
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Voineagu I, Eapen V. Converging Pathways in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Interplay between Synaptic Dysfunction and Immune Responses. Front Hum Neurosci 2013; 7:738. [PMID: 24223544 PMCID: PMC3819618 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2013.00738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are highly heritable, yet genetically heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions. Recent genome-wide association and gene expression studies have provided evidence supporting the notion that the large number of genetic variants associated with ASD converge toward a core set of dysregulated biological processes. Here we review recent data demonstrating the involvement of synaptic dysfunction and abnormal immune responses in ASD, and discuss the functional interplay between the two phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Voineagu
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales , Sydney, NSW , Australia
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47
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Maxwell SS, Pelka GJ, Tam PP, El-Osta A. Chromatin context and ncRNA highlight targets of MeCP2 in brain. RNA Biol 2013; 10:1741-57. [PMID: 24270455 DOI: 10.4161/rna.26921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery that Rett syndrome (RTT) is caused by mutation of the methyl-CpG-binding-protein MeCP2 provided a major breakthrough in understanding the neurodevelopmental disorder and accelerated MeCP2 research. However, gene regulation by MeCP2 is complicated. The current consensus for MeCP2 remains as a classical repressor complex, with major emphasis on its role in methylation-dependent binding and repression. However, recent evidence indicates additional regulatory roles, suggesting non-classical mechanisms in gene activation. This has opened the field of MeCP2 research and suggests that the gene targets may not be the usual suspects, that is, dependent only on DNA methylation. Here we examine how chromatin binding and sequence preference may confer MeCP2 functionality, and connect relevant pathways in an active genome. Finding both genomic and proteomic evidence to indicate MeCP2 spliceosome interaction, we consequently discovered broad MeCP2 enrichment of the transcriptome while our focus toward long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) revealed MeCP2 association with RNCR3. Our data may indicate an as-yet-unappreciated role between lncRNA and MeCP2. We hypothesize that ncRNA may mediate chromatin-remodeling events by interacting with MeCP2, thereby conferring changes in gene expression. We consider that these results may suggest new mechanisms of gene regulation conferred by MeCP2 and its interactions upon chromatin structure and gene function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott S Maxwell
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory; Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute; The Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct; Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gregory J Pelka
- Embryology Unit; Children's Medical Research Institute; Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Patrick Pl Tam
- Embryology Unit; Children's Medical Research Institute; Sydney, NSW, Australia; Sydney Medical School; University of Sydney; Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Assam El-Osta
- Epigenetics in Human Health and Disease Laboratory; Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute; The Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct; Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Epigenomic Profiling Facility; Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute; The Alfred Medical Research and Education Precinct; Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Pathology; The University of Melbourne; Parkville, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences; Monash University; VIC, Australia
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Della Sala G, Pizzorusso T. Synaptic plasticity and signaling in Rett syndrome. Dev Neurobiol 2013; 74:178-96. [PMID: 23908158 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2012] [Revised: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a disorder that is caused in the majority of cases by mutations in the gene methyl-CpG-binding protein-2 (MeCP2). Children with RTT are generally characterized by normal development up to the first year and a half of age, after which they undergo a rapid regression marked by a deceleration of head growth, the onset of stereotyped hand movements, irregular breathing, and seizures. Animal models of RTT with good construct and face validity are available. Their analysis showed that homeostatic regulation of MeCP2 gene is necessary for normal CNS functioning and that multiple complex pathways involving different neuronal and glial cell types are disrupted in RTT models. However, it is increasingly clear that RTT pathogenetic mechanisms converge at synaptic level impairing synaptic transmission and plasticity. We review novel findings showing how specific synaptic mechanisms and related signaling pathways are affected in RTT models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Della Sala
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Abstract
Autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) are defined behaviorally, but they also involve multileveled disturbances of underlying biology that find striking parallels in the physiological impacts of electromagnetic frequency and radiofrequency radiation exposures (EMF/RFR). Part I (Vol 776) of this paper reviewed the critical contributions pathophysiology may make to the etiology, pathogenesis and ongoing generation of behaviors currently defined as being core features of ASCs. We reviewed pathophysiological damage to core cellular processes that are associated both with ASCs and with biological effects of EMF/RFR exposures that contribute to chronically disrupted homeostasis. Many studies of people with ASCs have identified oxidative stress and evidence of free radical damage, cellular stress proteins, and deficiencies of antioxidants such as glutathione. Elevated intracellular calcium in ASCs may be due to genetics or may be downstream of inflammation or environmental exposures. Cell membrane lipids may be peroxidized, mitochondria may be dysfunctional, and various kinds of immune system disturbances are common. Brain oxidative stress and inflammation as well as measures consistent with blood-brain barrier and brain perfusion compromise have been documented. Part II of this paper documents how behaviors in ASCs may emerge from alterations of electrophysiological oscillatory synchronization, how EMF/RFR could contribute to these by de-tuning the organism, and policy implications of these vulnerabilities. It details evidence for mitochondrial dysfunction, immune system dysregulation, neuroinflammation and brain blood flow alterations, altered electrophysiology, disruption of electromagnetic signaling, synchrony, and sensory processing, de-tuning of the brain and organism, with autistic behaviors as emergent properties emanating from this pathophysiology. Changes in brain and autonomic nervous system electrophysiological function and sensory processing predominate, seizures are common, and sleep disruption is close to universal. All of these phenomena also occur with EMF/RFR exposure that can add to system overload ('allostatic load') in ASCs by increasing risk, and can worsen challenging biological problems and symptoms; conversely, reducing exposure might ameliorate symptoms of ASCs by reducing obstruction of physiological repair. Various vital but vulnerable mechanisms such as calcium channels may be disrupted by environmental agents, various genes associated with autism or the interaction of both. With dramatic increases in reported ASCs that are coincident in time with the deployment of wireless technologies, we need aggressive investigation of potential ASC-EMF/RFR links. The evidence is sufficient to warrant new public exposure standards benchmarked to low-intensity (non-thermal) exposure levels now known to be biologically disruptive, and strong, interim precautionary practices are advocated.
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Herbert MR, Sage C. Autism and EMF? Plausibility of a pathophysiological link - Part I. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 20:191-209. [PMID: 24095003 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2013] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Although autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) are defined behaviorally, they also involve multileveled disturbances of underlying biology that find striking parallels in the physiological impacts of electromagnetic frequency and radiofrequency exposures (EMF/RFR). Part I of this paper will review the critical contributions pathophysiology may make to the etiology, pathogenesis and ongoing generation of core features of ASCs. We will review pathophysiological damage to core cellular processes that are associated both with ASCs and with biological effects of EMF/RFR exposures that contribute to chronically disrupted homeostasis. Many studies of people with ASCs have identified oxidative stress and evidence of free radical damage, cellular stress proteins, and deficiencies of antioxidants such as glutathione. Elevated intracellular calcium in ASCs may be due to genetics or may be downstream of inflammation or environmental exposures. Cell membrane lipids may be peroxidized, mitochondria may be dysfunctional, and various kinds of immune system disturbances are common. Brain oxidative stress and inflammation as well as measures consistent with blood-brain barrier and brain perfusion compromise have been documented. Part II of this paper will review how behaviors in ASCs may emerge from alterations of electrophysiological oscillatory synchronization, how EMF/RFR could contribute to these by de-tuning the organism, and policy implications of these vulnerabilities. Changes in brain and autonomic nervous system electrophysiological function and sensory processing predominate, seizures are common, and sleep disruption is close to universal. All of these phenomena also occur with EMF/RFR exposure that can add to system overload ('allostatic load') in ASCs by increasing risk, and worsening challenging biological problems and symptoms; conversely, reducing exposure might ameliorate symptoms of ASCs by reducing obstruction of physiological repair. Various vital but vulnerable mechanisms such as calcium channels may be disrupted by environmental agents, various genes associated with autism or the interaction of both. With dramatic increases in reported ASCs that are coincident in time with the deployment of wireless technologies, we need aggressive investigation of potential ASC - EMF/RFR links. The evidence is sufficient to warrant new public exposure standards benchmarked to low-intensity (non-thermal) exposure levels now known to be biologically disruptive, and strong, interim precautionary practices are advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha R Herbert
- TRANSCEND Research Program Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA.
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