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Esposito D, Cruciani G, Zaccaro L, Di Carlo E, Spitoni GF, Manti F, Carducci C, Fiori E, Leuzzi V, Pascucci T. A Systematic Review on Autism and Hyperserotonemia: State-of-the-Art, Limitations, and Future Directions. Brain Sci 2024; 14:481. [PMID: 38790459 PMCID: PMC11119126 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hyperserotonemia is one of the most studied endophenotypes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but there are still no unequivocal results about its causes or biological and behavioral outcomes. This systematic review summarizes the studies investigating the relationship between blood serotonin (5-HT) levels and ASD, comparing diagnostic tools, analytical methods, and clinical outcomes. A literature search on peripheral 5-HT levels and ASD was conducted. In total, 1104 publications were screened, of which 113 entered the present systematic review. Of these, 59 articles reported hyperserotonemia in subjects with ASD, and 26 presented correlations between 5-HT levels and ASD-core clinical outcomes. The 5-HT levels are increased in about half, and correlations between hyperserotonemia and clinical outcomes are detected in a quarter of the studies. The present research highlights a large amount of heterogeneity in this field, ranging from the characterization of ASD and control groups to diagnostic and clinical assessments, from blood sampling procedures to analytical methods, allowing us to delineate critical topics for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Esposito
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.E.); (F.M.)
| | - Gianluca Cruciani
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (G.F.S.)
| | - Laura Zaccaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.Z.); (T.P.)
| | - Emanuele Di Carlo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Grazia Fernanda Spitoni
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (G.F.S.)
- Cognitive and Motor Rehabilitation and Neuroimaging Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306-354, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Manti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.E.); (F.M.)
| | - Claudia Carducci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Elena Fiori
- Rome Technopole Foundation, P.le Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Leuzzi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.E.); (F.M.)
| | - Tiziana Pascucci
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.Z.); (T.P.)
- Centro “Daniel Bovet”, Sapienza University, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Liu N, Zhu S, Zhang W, Sun Y, Zhang X. The relationship between fear of missing out and mobile phone addiction among college students: the mediating role of depression and the moderating role of loneliness. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1374522. [PMID: 38584914 PMCID: PMC10995225 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1374522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile phone addiction has adverse influences on the physical and mental health of college students. However, few studies shed light on the effect of fear of missing out on mobile phone addiction and the underlying mechanisms among college students. Methods To explore their associations, the present study used the Fear of Missing Out Scales (FoMOS), Loneliness Scale (USL-8), Mobile Phone Addiction Index Scale (MPAI), and Depression-Anxiety-Stress Questionnaire (DASS-21) to investigate 750 college students. Results The results suggested that fear of missing out significantly positively predicted mobile phone addiction. This direct effect could be mediated by depression, and the indirect effect of fear of missing out on mobile phone addiction could be moderated by loneliness. Specifically, the indirect effect was stronger for students with high levels of loneliness. Conclusion This study provides a theoretical basis for developing future interventions for mobile phone addiction in higher education students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xinyao Zhang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Ji Q, Li SJ, Zhao JB, Xiong Y, Du XH, Wang CX, Lu LM, Tan JY, Zhu ZR. Genetic and neural mechanisms of sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder: a review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1079683. [PMID: 37200906 PMCID: PMC10185750 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1079683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is very high. Sleep disorders can exacerbate the development of ASD and impose a heavy burden on families and society. The pathological mechanism of sleep disorders in autism is complex, but gene mutations and neural abnormalities may be involved. Methods In this review, we examined literature addressing the genetic and neural mechanisms of sleep disorders in children with ASD. The databases PubMed and Scopus were searched for eligible studies published between 2013 and 2023. Results Prolonged awakenings of children with ASD may be caused by the following processes. Mutations in the MECP2, VGAT and SLC6A1 genes can decrease GABA inhibition on neurons in the locus coeruleus, leading to hyperactivity of noradrenergic neurons and prolonged awakenings in children with ASD. Mutations in the HRH1, HRH2, and HRH3 genes heighten the expression of histamine receptors in the posterior hypothalamus, potentially intensifying histamine's ability to promote arousal. Mutations in the KCNQ3 and PCDH10 genes cause atypical modulation of amygdala impact on orexinergic neurons, potentially causing hyperexcitability of the hypothalamic orexin system. Mutations in the AHI1, ARHGEF10, UBE3A, and SLC6A3 genes affect dopamine synthesis, catabolism, and reuptake processes, which can elevate dopamine concentrations in the midbrain. Secondly, non-rapid eye movement sleep disorder is closely related to the lack of butyric acid, iron deficiency and dysfunction of the thalamic reticular nucleus induced by PTCHD1 gene alterations. Thirdly, mutations in the HTR2A, SLC6A4, MAOA, MAOB, TPH2, VMATs, SHANK3, and CADPS2 genes induce structural and functional abnormalities of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) and amygdala, which may disturb REM sleep. In addition, the decrease in melatonin levels caused by ASMT, MTNR1A, and MTNR1B gene mutations, along with functional abnormalities of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, may lead to abnormal sleep-wake rhythm transitions. Conclusion Our review revealed that the functional and structural abnormalities of sleep-wake related neural circuits induced by gene mutations are strongly correlated with sleep disorders in children with ASD. Exploring the neural mechanisms of sleep disorders and the underlying genetic pathology in children with ASD is significant for further studies of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Ji
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Si-Jia Li
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun-Bo Zhao
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yun Xiong
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Du
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chun-Xiang Wang
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Ming Lu
- College of Educational Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing-Yao Tan
- College of Educational Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-Ru Zhu
- Department of Psychology, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Zhi-Ru Zhu,
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Chen K, Palagashvili T, Hsu W, Chen Y, Tabakoff B, Hong F, Shih AT, Shih JC. Brain injury and inflammation genes common to a number of neurological diseases and the genes involved in the genesis of GABAnergic neurons are altered in monoamine oxidase B knockout mice. Brain Res 2022; 1774:147724. [PMID: 34780749 PMCID: PMC8638699 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase B (MAO B) oxidizes trace amine phenylethylamine (PEA), and neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine in the brain. We reported previously that PEA levels increased significantly in all brain regions, but serotonin and dopamine levels were unchanged in MAO B knockout (KO) mice. PEA and dopamine are both synthesized from phenylalanine by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase in dopaminergic neurons in the striatum. A high concentration of PEA in the striatum may cause dopaminergic neuronal death in the absence of MAO B. We isolated the RNA from brain tissue of MAO B KO mice (2-month old) and age-matched wild type (WT) male mice and analyzed the altered genes by Affymetrix microarray. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in MAO B KO compared to WT mice were analyzed by Partek Genomics Suite, followed by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to assess their functional relationships. DEGs in MAO B KO mice are involved in brain inflammation and the genesis of GABAnergic neurons. The significant DEGs include four brain injury or inflammation genes (upregulated: Ido1, TSPO, AVP, Tdo2), five gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors (down-regulated: GABRA2, GABRA3, GABRB1, GABRB3, GABRG3), five transcription factors related to adult neurogenesis (upregulated: Wnt7b, Hes5; down-regulated: Pax6, Tcf4, Dtna). Altered brain injury and inflammation genes in MAO B knockout mice are involved in various neurological disorders: attention deficit hyperactive disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, autism, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's diseases, Alzheimer's disease, bipolar affective disorder. Many were commonly involved in these disorders, indicating that there are overlapping molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tamara Palagashvili
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - W Hsu
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yibu Chen
- Norris Medical Library, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Boris Tabakoff
- University of Colorado Health Science Center, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Frank Hong
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Abigail T Shih
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jean C Shih
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, 1985 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; USC-Taiwan Center for Translational Research, University of Southern California, Los Angeles CA, USA.
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Rodriguez-Gomez DA, Garcia-Guaqueta DP, Charry-Sánchez JD, Sarquis-Buitrago E, Blanco M, Velez-van-Meerbeke A, Talero-Gutiérrez C. A systematic review of common genetic variation and biological pathways in autism spectrum disorder. BMC Neurosci 2021; 22:60. [PMID: 34627165 PMCID: PMC8501721 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-021-00662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction. Common genetic variation appears to play a key role in the development of this condition. In this systematic review, we describe the relationship between genetic variations and autism. We created a gene dataset of the genes involved in the pathogenesis of autism and performed an over-representation analysis to evaluate the biological functions and molecular pathways that may explain the associations between these variants and the development of ASD. Results 177 studies and a gene set composed of 139 were included in this qualitative systematic review. Enriched pathways in the over-representation analysis using the KEGG pathway database were mostly associated with neurotransmitter receptors and their subunits. Major over-represented biological processes were social behavior, vocalization behavior, learning and memory. The enriched cellular component of the proteins encoded by the genes identified in this systematic review were the postsynaptic membrane and the cell junction. Conclusions Among the biological processes that were examined, genes involved in synaptic integrity, neurotransmitter metabolism, and cell adhesion molecules were significantly involved in the development of autism. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12868-021-00662-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Alejandro Rodriguez-Gomez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Danna Paola Garcia-Guaqueta
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Jesús David Charry-Sánchez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Elias Sarquis-Buitrago
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Mariana Blanco
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Alberto Velez-van-Meerbeke
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.,NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Claudia Talero-Gutiérrez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia. .,NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.
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Jones DN, Raghanti MA. The role of monoamine oxidase enzymes in the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. J Chem Neuroanat 2021; 114:101957. [PMID: 33836221 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2021.101957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase enzymes are responsible for the degredation of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the central neurvous system. Although it has been nearly 100 years since they were first described, we are still learning about their role in the healthy brain and how they are altered in various disease states. The present review provides a survey of our current understanding of monoamine oxidases, with a focus on their contributions to neuropsychiatric, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative disease. Important species differences in monoamine oxidase function and development in the brain are highlighted. Sex-specific monoamine oxidase regulatory mechanisms and their implications for various neurological disorders are also discussed. While our understanding of these critical enzymes has expanded over the last century, gaps exist in our understanding of sex and species differences and the roles monoamine oxidases may play in conditions often comorbid with neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle N Jones
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA; Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA.
| | - Mary Ann Raghanti
- Department of Anthropology and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA; Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
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Abstract
Autism is a grand challenge in global mental health to be dealt with on a priority basis. Phenotypic knowledge, biological understanding, and evidence-based intervention studies are all from western countries. We know very little about autism in the low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Lack of infrastructure and difficulties in operationalizing research has widened the knowledge gap. We performed a comprehensive scoping review of research in Autism Spectrum Disorder in India to have an overall impression, identify gaps, and formulate evidence-based recommendations for further study. We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library to identify relevant Indian studies. A hundred and fifty-nine publications met the inclusion criteria. Most of the research contribution in autism is from few tertiary care medical centres, technological institutes, and not-for-profit organizations. We identified various themes of research like clinical profile, interventions, biomarkers, psychological, social, epidemiological, and risk factors. Evidence-based intervention studies, translation and adaptation of standard diagnostic instruments, and qualitative research on the experience of autism appeared to be state of the art. However, epidemiological studies, biomarkers identification, risk assessment studies were of low quality. There is a need for nationwide studies with representative sampling on epidemiology, biomarkers, and risk factors for a complete evaluation of the actual burden and biology of autism in India. Also, there is a need to design implementation research to evaluate the effectiveness of evidence-based interventions in routine healthcare settings. We recommend that future research should fill these gaps in understanding autism and improving its outcome in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suravi Patra
- Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sujita Kumar Kar
- Department of Psychiatry, King George Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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8
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Maes M, Anderson G, Betancort Medina SR, Seo M, Ojala JO. Integrating Autism Spectrum Disorder Pathophysiology: Mitochondria, Vitamin A, CD38, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Melatonergic Alterations in the Placenta and Gut. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:4405-4420. [PMID: 31682209 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191102165459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A diverse array of data has been associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), reflecting the complexity of its pathophysiology as well as its heterogeneity. Two important hubs have emerged, the placenta/prenatal period and the postnatal gut, with alterations in mitochondria functioning crucial in both. METHODS Factors acting to regulate mitochondria functioning in ASD across development are reviewed in this article. RESULTS Decreased vitamin A, and its retinoic acid metabolites, lead to a decrease in CD38 and associated changes that underpin a wide array of data on the biological underpinnings of ASD, including decreased oxytocin, with relevance both prenatally and in the gut. Decreased sirtuins, poly-ADP ribose polymerase-driven decreases in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), hyperserotonemia, decreased monoamine oxidase, alterations in 14-3-3 proteins, microRNA alterations, dysregulated aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity, suboptimal mitochondria functioning, and decreases in the melatonergic pathways are intimately linked to this. Many of the above processes may be modulating, or mediated by, alterations in mitochondria functioning. Other bodies of data associated with ASD may also be incorporated within these basic processes, including how ASD risk factors such as maternal obesity and preeclampsia, as well as more general prenatal stressors, modulate the likelihood of offspring ASD. CONCLUSION Such a mitochondria-focussed integrated model of the pathophysiology of ASD has important preventative and treatment implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - George Anderson
- CRC Scotland & London, Eccleston Square, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Moonsang Seo
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Johanna O Ojala
- Neurology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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9
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Chakraborti B, Verma D, Guhathakurta S, Jaiswal P, Singh AS, Sinha S, Ghosh S, Mukhopadhyay K, Mohanakumar KP, Rajamma U. Gender-Specific Effect of 5-HT and 5-HIAA on Threshold Level of Behavioral Symptoms and Sex-Bias in Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2020; 13:1375. [PMID: 31998058 PMCID: PMC6961535 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Platelet hyperserotonemia in a subset of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) probands, efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in reducing behavioral deficits and gender-bias in normal serotonin (5-hydroxy tryptamine or 5-HT) synthesis suggest disruption in stringent regulation of serotonin metabolism in ASD. Therefore, we investigated the changes in 5-HT and 5-hydroxy indole acetic acid (5-HIAA) in ASD probands to assess its effect on the behavior of male and female probands. ASD cases (n = 215) were examined using childhood autism rating scale (CARS). Platelet 5-HT (104 cases and 26 controls) and platelet/plasma 5-HIAA (73 cases and 17 controls) were estimated using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrochemical detector (HPLC-ECD). In male probands, we observed increase in platelet 5-HT content in association with increase in the score for adaptive responses and increase in platelet 5-HIAA levels with concomitant decline in the score for intellectual response. Age did not influence the neurochemical parameters, but imitation, listening responses and nonverbal communication scores decreased with age. Conversely in female probands, plasma 5-HIAA level significantly attenuated with age, when platelet 5-HT content remained unchanged. Interestingly, platelet/plasma 5-HT and plasma 5-HIAA were higher in female controls. Female probands displayed severe autism-associated behaviors. Overall results indicate gender-bias in 5-HT and 5-HIAA regulation, which probably increases the threshold level of ASD phenotypes in the females, thereby affecting ASD prevalence in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barnali Chakraborti
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Deepak Verma
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Subhrangshu Guhathakurta
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India.,Division of Neuroscience, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Preeti Jaiswal
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Asem Surindro Singh
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India.,Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Swagata Sinha
- Out Patient's Department, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Saurabh Ghosh
- Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Kanchan Mukhopadhyay
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India
| | - Kochupurackal P Mohanakumar
- Cell Biology & Physiology Division, Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India.,Inter University Centre for Biomedical Research and Super Speciality Hospital, Mahatma Gandhi University,, Kottayam, India
| | - Usha Rajamma
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, India.,Inter University Centre for Biomedical Research and Super Speciality Hospital, Mahatma Gandhi University,, Kottayam, India
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10
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Pharmacological, non-pharmacological and stem cell therapies for the management of autism spectrum disorders: A focus on human studies. Pharmacol Res 2019; 152:104579. [PMID: 31790820 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has dramatically escalated worldwide. Currently available drugs mainly target some co-occurring symptoms of ASD, but are not effective on the core symptoms, namely impairments in communication and social interaction, and the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. On the other hand, transplantation of hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells in ASD children has been shown promising to stimulate the recruitment, proliferation, and differentiation of tissue-residing native stem cells, reducing inflammation, and improving some ASD symptoms. Moreover, several comorbidities have also been associated with ASD, such as immune dysregulation, gastrointestinal issues and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as dietary supplementations with certain vitamins, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, probiotics, some phytochemicals (e.g., luteolin and sulforaphane), or overall diet interventions (e.g., gluten free and casein free diets) have been considered for the reduction of such comorbidities and the management of ASD. Here, interventional studies describing pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments in ASD children and adolescents, along with stem cell-based therapies, are reviewed.
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Padmakumar M, Van Raes E, Van Geet C, Freson K. Blood platelet research in autism spectrum disorders: In search of biomarkers. Res Pract Thromb Haemost 2019; 3:566-577. [PMID: 31624776 PMCID: PMC6781926 DOI: 10.1002/rth2.12239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a clinically heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that is caused by gene-environment interactions. To improve its diagnosis and treatment, numerous efforts have been undertaken to identify reliable biomarkers for autism. None of them have delivered the holy grail that represents a reproducible, quantifiable, and sensitive biomarker. Though blood platelets are mainly known to prevent bleeding, they also play pivotal roles in cancer, inflammation, and neurological disorders. Platelets could serve as a peripheral biomarker or cellular model for autism as they share common biological and molecular characteristics with neurons. In particular, platelet-dense granules contain neurotransmitters such as serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid. Molecular players controlling granule formation and secretion are similarly regulated in platelets and neurons. The major platelet integrin receptor αIIbβ3 has recently been linked to ASD as a regulator of serotonin transport. Though many studies revealed associations between platelet markers and ASD, there is an important knowledge gap in linking these markers with autism and explaining the altered platelet phenotypes detected in autism patients. The present review enumerates studies of different biomarkers detected in ASD using platelets and highlights the future needs to bring this research to the next level and advance our understanding of this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Padmakumar
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Eveline Van Raes
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Chris Van Geet
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Kathleen Freson
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
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12
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Garbarino VR, Gilman TL, Daws LC, Gould GG. Extreme enhancement or depletion of serotonin transporter function and serotonin availability in autism spectrum disorder. Pharmacol Res 2019; 140:85-99. [PMID: 30009933 PMCID: PMC6345621 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A variety of human and animal studies support the hypothesis that serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) system dysfunction is a contributing factor to the development of autism in some patients. However, many questions remain about how developmental manipulation of various components that influence 5-HT signaling (5-HT synthesis, transport, metabolism) persistently impair social behaviors. This review will summarize key aspects of central 5-HT function important for normal brain development, and review evidence implicating perinatal disruptions in 5-HT signaling in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder. We discuss the importance, and relative dearth, of studies that explore the possible correlation to autism in the interactions between important intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may disrupt 5-HT homeostasis during development. In particular, we focus on exposure to 5-HT transport altering mechanisms such as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or genetic polymorphisms in primary or auxiliary transporters of 5-HT, and how they relate to neurological stores of serotonin and its precursors. A deeper understanding of the many mechanisms by which 5-HT signaling can be disrupted, alone and in concert, may contribute to an improved understanding of the etiologies and heterogeneous nature of this disorder. We postulate that extreme bidirectional perturbations of these factors during development likely compound or synergize to facilitate enduring neurochemical changes resulting in insufficient or excessive 5-HT signaling, that could underlie the persistent behavioral characteristics of autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina R Garbarino
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, United States; The Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, United States.
| | - T Lee Gilman
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, United States; Addiction Research, Treatment & Training Center of Excellence, United States.
| | - Lynette C Daws
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, United States; Addiction Research, Treatment & Training Center of Excellence, United States; Department of Pharmacology, United States.
| | - Georgianna G Gould
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, United States; Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
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13
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Infante M, Sears B, Rizzo AM, Mariani Cerati D, Caprio M, Ricordi C, Fabbri A. Omega-3 PUFAs and vitamin D co-supplementation as a safe-effective therapeutic approach for core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder: case report and literature review. Nutr Neurosci 2018; 23:779-790. [PMID: 30545280 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2018.1557385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by abnormal development of cognitive, social, and communicative skills. Although ASD aetiology and pathophysiology are still unclear, various nutritional factors have been investigated as potential risk factors for ASD development, including omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and vitamin D deficiency. In fact, both omega-3 PUFAs and vitamin D are important for brain development and function. Case report: Herein, we report the case of a 23-year-old young adult male with autism who was referred to our Unit due to a 12-month history of cyclic episodes of restlessness, agitation, irritability, oppositional and self-injurious behaviours. Laboratory tests documented a markedly altered omega-6/omega-3 balance, along with a vitamin D deficiency, as assessed by serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Omega-3 and vitamin D co-supplementation was therefore started, with remarkable improvements in ASD symptoms throughout a 24-month follow-up period. A brief review of the literature for interventional studies evaluating the efficacy of omega-3 or vitamin D supplementation for the treatment of ASD-related symptoms is also provided. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first case reporting remarkable beneficial effects on ASD symptoms deriving from omega-3 and vitamin D combination therapy. This case report suggests omega-3 and vitamin D co-supplementation as a potential safe-effective therapeutic strategy to treat core symptoms of ASD. However, larger studies are needed to evaluate the real efficacy of such therapeutic approach in a broader sample of ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Infante
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Systems Medicine, CTO Andrea Alesini Hospital, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Barry Sears
- Inflammation Research Foundation, Peabody, MA, USA
| | - Angela Maria Rizzo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Applied Nutrition, Milan University, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Mariani Cerati
- ANGSA (Associazione Nazionale Genitori Soggetti Autistici), Scientific Committee, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy.,Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Camillo Ricordi
- Diabetes Research Institute and Cell Transplant Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Diabetes Research Institute Federation, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Andrea Fabbri
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Systems Medicine, CTO Andrea Alesini Hospital, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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14
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Lu DH, Liao HM, Chen CH, Tu HJ, Liou HC, Gau SSF, Fu WM. Impairment of social behaviors in Arhgef10 knockout mice. Mol Autism 2018; 9:11. [PMID: 29456827 PMCID: PMC5810065 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-018-0197-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Impaired social interaction is one of the essential features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our previous copy number variation (CNV) study discovered a novel deleted region associated with ASD. One of the genes included in the deleted region is ARHGEF10. A missense mutation of ARHGEF10 has been reported to be one of the contributing factors in several diseases of the central nervous system. However, the relationship between the loss of ARHGEF10 and the clinical symptoms of ASD is unclear. Methods We generated Arhgef10 knockout mice as a model of ASD and characterized the social behavior and the biochemical changes in the brains of the knockout mice. Results Compared with their wild-type littermates, the Arhgef10-depleted mice showed social interaction impairment, hyperactivity, and decreased depression-like and anxiety-like behavior. Behavioral measures of learning in the Morris water maze were not affected by Arhgef10 deficiency. Moreover, neurotransmitters including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine were significantly increased in different brain regions of the Arhgef10 knockout mice. In addition, monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) decreased in several brain regions. Conclusions These results suggest that ARHGEF10 is a candidate risk gene for ASD and that the Arhgef10 knockout model could be a tool for studying the mechanisms of neurotransmission in ASD. Trial registration Animal studies were approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of National Taiwan University (IACUC 20150023). Registered 1 August 2015. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13229-018-0197-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai-Hua Lu
- 1Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Mei Liao
- 2Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsiang Chen
- 3Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,4Department and Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Huang-Ju Tu
- 1Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Houng-Chi Liou
- 1Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- 2Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Mei Fu
- 1Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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15
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Petschner P, Gonda X, Baksa D, Eszlari N, Trivaks M, Juhasz G, Bagdy G. Genes Linking Mitochondrial Function, Cognitive Impairment and Depression are Associated with Endophenotypes Serving Precision Medicine. Neuroscience 2018; 370:207-217. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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16
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Jia F, Shan L, Wang B, Li H, Miao C, Xu Z, Lin CP, Saad K. Bench to bedside review: Possible role of vitamin D in autism spectrum disorder. Psychiatry Res 2018; 260:360-365. [PMID: 29241119 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of dysfunctions in social interaction, communication, and behaviors. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy and in individuals increased the risk of ASD. A genetic polymorphism study has pinpointed that genotype AA/A-allele of GC rs4588 in children is associated with ASD, which encodes the vitamin D binding protein. Translating the mentioned points into clinical practice, several clinical trials have demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation can improve the core symptoms in children with ASD. One paper also showed that possible prophylactic effect for the reoccurrence of ASD by vitamin D supplement during pregnancy and early childhood. Herein, this review aims to address the recent advances in this field and to clarify the possible role of vitamin D in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiyong Jia
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ling Shan
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Honghua Li
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chunyue Miao
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhida Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ching-Po Lin
- Neurological Research Center of First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Khaled Saad
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
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