1
|
Pall ML. Central Causation of Autism/ASDs via Excessive [Ca 2+]i Impacting Six Mechanisms Controlling Synaptogenesis during the Perinatal Period: The Role of Electromagnetic Fields and Chemicals and the NO/ONOO(-) Cycle, as Well as Specific Mutations. Brain Sci 2024; 14:454. [PMID: 38790433 PMCID: PMC11119459 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050454] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The roles of perinatal development, intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i, and synaptogenesis disruption are not novel in the autism/ASD literature. The focus on six mechanisms controlling synaptogenesis, each regulated by [Ca2+]i, and each aberrant in ASDs is novel. The model presented here predicts that autism epidemic causation involves central roles of both electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and chemicals. EMFs act via voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) activation and [Ca2+]i elevation. A total of 15 autism-implicated chemical classes each act to produce [Ca2+]i elevation, 12 acting via NMDA receptor activation, and three acting via other mechanisms. The chronic nature of ASDs is explained via NO/ONOO(-) vicious cycle elevation and MeCP2 epigenetic dysfunction. Genetic causation often also involves [Ca2+]i elevation or other impacts on synaptogenesis. The literature examining each of these steps is systematically examined and found to be consistent with predictions. Approaches that may be sed for ASD prevention or treatment are discussed in connection with this special issue: The current situation and prospects for children with ASDs. Such approaches include EMF, chemical avoidance, and using nutrients and other agents to raise the levels of Nrf2. An enriched environment, vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s in fish oil may also be helpful.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Pall
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen WX, Chen YR, Peng MZ, Liu X, Cai YN, Huang ZF, Yang SY, Huang JY, Wang RH, Yi P, Liu L. Plasma Amino Acid Profile in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Southern China: Analysis of 110 Cases. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:1567-1581. [PMID: 36652126 PMCID: PMC10981617 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05829-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
To retrospectively explore the characteristics of plasma amino acids (PAAs) in children with autism spectrum disorder and their clinical association via case-control study. A total of 110 autistic and 55 healthy children were recruited from 2014 to 2018. The clinical phenotypes included severity of autism, cognition, adaptability, and regression. Compared with the control group, autistic children had significantly elevated glutamate, γ-Amino-n-butyric acid, glutamine, sarcosine, δ-aminolevulinic acid, glycine and citrulline. In contrast, their plasma level of ethanolamine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, homocysteine, pyroglutamic acid, hydroxyproline, ornithine, histidine, lysine, and glutathione were significantly lower. Elevated neuroactive amino acids (glutamate) and decreased essential amino acids were mostly distinct characteristics of PAAs of autistic children. Increased level of tryptophan might be associated with severity of autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Xiong Chen
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- The Assessment and Intervention Center for Autistic Children, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yi-Ru Chen
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min-Zhi Peng
- Department of Genetics and Endocrinology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xian Liu
- Division of Birth Cohort Study, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Na Cai
- Department of Genetics and Endocrinology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Fang Huang
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Assessment and Intervention Center for Autistic Children, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si-Yuan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Assessment and Intervention Center for Autistic Children, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Yu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Assessment and Intervention Center for Autistic Children, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruo-Han Wang
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Yi
- Department of Genetics and Endocrinology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Genetics and Endocrinology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cui J, Zhai Z, Wang S, Song X, Qiu T, Yu L, Zhai Q, Zhang H. The role and impact of abnormal vitamin levels in autism spectrum disorders. Food Funct 2024; 15:1099-1115. [PMID: 38221882 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo03735e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder with a predominance of social behavioral disorders, has increased dramatically in various countries in recent decades. The interplay between genetic and environmental factors is believed to underlie ASD pathogenesis. Recent analyses have shown that abnormal vitamin levels in early life are associated with an increased risk of autism. As essential substances for growth and development, vitamins have been shown to have significant benefits for the nervous and immune systems. However, it is unknown whether certain vitamin types influence the emergence or manifestation of ASD symptoms. Several studies have focused on vitamin levels in children with autism, and neurotypical children have provided different insights into the types of vitamins and their intake. Here, we review the mechanisms and significance of several vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, and K) that are closely associated with the development of ASD in order to prevent, mitigate, and treat ASD. Efforts have been made to discover and develop new indicators for nutritional assessment of children with ASD to play a greater role in the early detection of ASD and therapeutic remission after diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Cui
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
| | - Zidan Zhai
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
| | - Shumin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
| | - Xiaoyue Song
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University/Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Ting Qiu
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
| | - Leilei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
| | - Qixiao Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
| | - Heng Zhang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University/Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Carpita B, Massoni L, Battaglini S, Palego L, Cremone IM, Massimetti G, Betti L, Giannaccini G, Dell'Osso L. IL-6, homocysteine, and autism spectrum phenotypes: an investigation among adults with autism spectrum disorder and their first-degree relatives. CNS Spectr 2023; 28:620-628. [PMID: 36690583 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852923000019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of recognizing different kinds of autism spectrum presentations among adults, including subthreshold forms and the broad autism phenotype (BAP), has been increasingly highlighted in recent studies. Meanwhile, the possible involvement of immune system deregulation and altered methylation/trans-sulfuration processes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is gaining growing attention, but studies in this field are mainly focused on children. In this framework, the aim of this study was to compare plasmatic concentrations of IL-6 and homocysteine (HCY) among adults with ASD, their first-degree relatives, and healthy controls (CTLs), investigating also possible correlations with specific autism symptoms. METHODS Plasma concentrations of IL-6 and HCY were measured in a group of adult subjects with ASD, their first-degree relatives (BAP group), and healthy controls (CTL). All participants were also evaluated with psychometric instruments. RESULTS IL-6 and HCY concentrations were significantly higher in the ASD group than in CTLs, while BAP subjects reported intermediate results. Significant correlations were reported between biochemical parameters and psychometric scales, particularly for the dimension of ruminative thinking. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the hypothesis of a key involvement of HCY-related metabolism and immune system alteration in autism spectrum pathophysiology. HCY and IL-6 seem to show different associations with specific autism dimensions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Leonardo Massoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Battaglini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Ivan M Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Massimetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Betti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nutritional Status and Feeding Behavior of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Middle East and North Africa Region: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030711. [PMID: 36771417 PMCID: PMC9920501 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children is associated with increased risks of overweight/obesity and underweight, altered nutrient profile, and abnormal feeding behaviors. This systematic review aimed to elucidate the literature on the nutritional status of children with ASD in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, by providing a summary and assessment of the body of evidence. A systematic review of English and Arabic publications up to November 2020 was conducted of five databases in addition to the grey literature, which include a nutrition-related parameter, from both experimental and observational study designs. Children with ASD (ASD-C) between 2 and 19 years in the MENA Region were the target population. For risk of bias, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Quality Criteria Checklist (QCC) was adopted. The number of published articles was grossly limited. Forty-three articles were included, of which only four articles reported a low risk of bias; therefore, the results were interpreted in light of methodological limitations. Both overweight and underweight were common in ASD-C, although not consistently different than typically developing children. Nutrient inadequacies of energy, protein, omega-3, and others; deficiencies in serum iron indicators and calcium, as well as vitamins B12, B9, and D levels; and higher levels of homocysteine and omega-6/omega-3 ratios were reported. Feeding behavior problems were also common in ASD-C. Understanding nutritional requirements and food preferences can guide the planning of the appropriate comprehensive interventions for ASD-C. Various nutritional and behavioral concerns were identified in the included studies; however, they were subject to methodological weaknesses, which limited the generalizability of these results. Future research is warranted that must be directed to finding strong evidence using robust study designs on nutritional status and feeding behaviors of ASD-C, with a particular emphasis on the MENA Region.
Collapse
|
6
|
Frye RE, Lane A, Worner A, Werner BA, McCarty PJ, Scheck AC, Collins HL, Adelman SJ, Quadros EV, Rossignol DA. The Soluble Folate Receptor in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Relation to Autism Severity and Leucovorin Treatment. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12122033. [PMID: 36556254 PMCID: PMC9786140 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12122033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with life-long consequences that affects up to 1 in 44 children. Treatment with leucovorin (folinic acid), a reduced form of folate, has been shown to improve symptoms in those with ASD and folate pathway abnormalities in controlled clinical trials. Although soluble folate binding proteins (sFBPs) have been observed in the serum of some patients with ASD, the significance of this finding has not been studied. Here, we present a cohort of ASD patients with sFBPs. These patients had severe ASD and were medically complex. Using baseline controlled open-label methodology and standardized assessments, these patients were found to improve in both core and associated ASD symptoms with leucovorin treatment. No adverse effects were related to leucovorin treatment. This is the first report of the sFBPs in ASD. This study complements ongoing controlled clinical trials and suggests that leucovorin may be effective for children with ASD who are positive for sFBPs. Further, sFBPs might be important biomarkers for treatment response to leucovorin in children with ASD. This study paves the way for further controlled studies for patients with sFBPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard E. Frye
- Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Alison Lane
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine—Phoenix, Phoenix AZ 85004, USA
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA
| | - Ashley Worner
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine—Phoenix, Phoenix AZ 85004, USA
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA
| | | | | | - Adrienne C. Scheck
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine—Phoenix, Phoenix AZ 85004, USA
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA
| | | | | | | | - Daniel A. Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
- Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li B, Xu Y, Pang D, Zhao Q, Zhang L, Li M, Li W, Duan G, Zhu C. Interrelation between homocysteine metabolism and the development of autism spectrum disorder in children. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:947513. [PMID: 36046711 PMCID: PMC9421079 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.947513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence is emerging that dysregulation of circulating concentrations of homocysteine, an important intermediate in folate and vitamin B12 metabolism, is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but comprehensive assessments and correlations with disease characteristics have not been reported. Multivariate ordinal regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were used to estimate independent correlations between serum homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels and clinical outcomes and severity of children with ASD. After adjusting for confounding factors, serum homocysteine levels were significantly higher in children with ASD than in healthy controls (β: 0.370; 95% CI: 0.299~0.441, p < 0.001). Moreover, homocysteine had a good diagnostic ability for distinguishing children with ASD from healthy subjects (AUC: 0.899, p < 0.001). The RCS model indicated a positive and linear association between serum homocysteine and the risk of ASD. The lowest quartile of folate was positively associated with ASD severity (OR: 4.227, 95% CI: 1.022~17.488, p = 0.041) compared to the highest quartile, and serum folate showed a negative and linear association with ASD severity. In addition, decreased concentrations of folate and vitamin B12 were associated with poor adaptive behavior developmental quotients of the Gesell Developmental Schedules (p < 0.05). Overall, an increased homocysteine level was associated with ASD in a linear manner and is thus a novel diagnostic biomarker for ASD. Decreased concentrations of folate and vitamin B12 were associated with poor clinical profiles of children with ASD. These findings suggest that homocysteine-lowering interventions or folate and vitamin B12 supplementation might be a viable treatment strategy for ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingbing Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiran Xu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dizhou Pang
- Center for Child Behavioral Development, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- Key Clinical Laboratory of Henan Province, Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ming Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenhua Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guiqin Duan
- Center for Child Behavioral Development, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Third Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Changlian Zhu ;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jensen AR, Lane AL, Werner BA, McLees SE, Fletcher TS, Frye RE. Modern Biomarkers for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Future Directions. Mol Diagn Ther 2022; 26:483-495. [PMID: 35759118 PMCID: PMC9411091 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-022-00600-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is an increasingly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in the world today, with an estimated 2% of the population being affected in the USA. A major complicating factor in diagnosing, treating, and understanding autism spectrum disorder is that defining the disorder is solely based on the observation of behavior. Thus, recent research has focused on identifying specific biological abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder that can provide clues to diagnosis and treatment. Biomarkers are an objective way to identify and measure biological abnormalities for diagnostic purposes as well as to measure changes resulting from treatment. This current opinion paper discusses the state of research of various biomarkers currently in development for autism spectrum disorder. The types of biomarkers identified include prenatal history, genetics, neurological including neuroimaging, neurophysiologic, and visual attention, metabolic including abnormalities in mitochondrial, folate, trans-methylation, and trans-sulfuration pathways, immune including autoantibodies and cytokine dysregulation, autonomic nervous system, and nutritional. Many of these biomarkers have promising preliminary evidence for prenatal and post-natal pre-symptomatic risk assessment, confirmation of diagnosis, subtyping, and treatment response. However, most biomarkers have not undergone validation studies and most studies do not investigate biomarkers with clinically relevant comparison groups. Although the field of biomarker research in autism spectrum disorder is promising, it appears that it is currently in the early stages of development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda R Jensen
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA
| | - Alison L Lane
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA
| | - Brianna A Werner
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA
| | - Sallie E McLees
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA
| | - Tessa S Fletcher
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA.,Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Section on Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sodium Benzoate—Harmfulness and Potential Use in Therapies for Disorders Related to the Nervous System: A Review. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14071497. [PMID: 35406109 PMCID: PMC9003278 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, due to the large number of reports regarding the harmfulness of food additives, more and more consumers follow the so-called “clean label” trend, i.e., prefer and choose the least-processed food products. One of the compounds known as a preservative with a high safety profile is sodium benzoate. While some studies show that it can be used to treat conditions such as depression, pain, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases, others report its harmfulness. For example, it was found to cause mutagenic effects, generate oxidative stress, disrupt hormones, and reduce fertility. Due to such disparate results, the purpose of this study is to comprehensively discuss the safety profile of sodium benzoate and its potential use in neurodegenerative diseases, especially in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, major depressive disorder (MDD), and pain relief.
Collapse
|
10
|
Liu X, Lin J, Zhang H, Khan NU, Zhang J, Tang X, Cao X, Shen L. Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder-Current Progress of Mechanisms and Biomarkers. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:813304. [PMID: 35299821 PMCID: PMC8921264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.813304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that has been diagnosed in an increasing number of children around the world. Existing data suggest that early diagnosis and intervention can improve ASD outcomes. However, the causes of ASD remain complex and unclear, and there are currently no clinical biomarkers for autism spectrum disorder. More mechanisms and biomarkers of autism have been found with the development of advanced technology such as mass spectrometry. Many recent studies have found a link between ASD and elevated oxidative stress, which may play a role in its development. ASD is caused by oxidative stress in several ways, including protein post-translational changes (e.g., carbonylation), abnormal metabolism (e.g., lipid peroxidation), and toxic buildup [e.g., reactive oxygen species (ROS)]. To detect elevated oxidative stress in ASD, various biomarkers have been developed and employed. This article summarizes recent studies about the mechanisms and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Potential biomarkers identified in this study could be used for early diagnosis and evaluation of ASD intervention, as well as to inform and target ASD pharmacological or nutritional treatment interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xukun Liu
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Lin
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huajie Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Tang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xueshan Cao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.,Brain Disease and Big Data Research Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
De la Torre-Iturbe S, Vázquez-Roque RA, De la Cruz-López F, Flores G, Garcés-Ramírez L. Dendritic and behavioral changes in rats neonatally treated with homocysteine; A proposal as an animal model to study the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. J Chem Neuroanat 2021; 119:102057. [PMID: 34871732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2021.102057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHAD) is a neurobehavioral disorder that affects children and adolescents with a high prevalence. Despite its prevalence and an unclear etiology, previous reports suggest that it is closely related to homocysteine metabolism. Male Sprague Dawley rats were administered with homocysteine from postnatal day (PD) 2 to PD 16. Locomotor activity was evaluated at 35 PD (prepuberal age) and 60 PD (adult age) before and after amphetamine administration. In rats evaluated at both ages, homocysteine induced hyperactivity, and the amphetamine administration reduced hyperactivity significantly at 35 PD, but not at 60 PD. In the social interaction test, homocysteine reduced the number of contacts and increased the latency to the first contact only in rats at 35 PD. Homocysteine also had an effect on short term memory at 35D and 60 PD and long-term memory at 60 PD. Morphological changes were found mainly in the shape of dendritic spines in the prefrontal cortex (PFC-3), dorsal hippocampus (CA1), dentate gyrus (DG) and nucleus accumbens (NAcc), in rats administered neonatally with homocysteine at both ages studied. In prepuberal and adult rats, there was an increase in dendritic length in DG and NAcc, respectively. The dendritic spine morphology also was altered at both ages, mainly decreasing the number of mushroom spines in NAcc and CA1 at 30 PD and in all the areas studied at 60 PD rats. Those areas are associated with the processes of attention, learning and memory that were studied, and those alterations are possibly related to changes observed in the behavioral tests. These behavioral and morphological changes in rats at 35 PD administered with homocysteine could be similar to changes found in children diagnosed with ADHD. Moreover, half to two thirds of children diagnosed with ADHD reach adulthood with this disorder. In this study we found similarities with ADHD, finding alterations in both rats at 35 PD and 60 PD. So, this may be proposed as an animal model to study this disorder present in children, adolescents and adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra De la Torre-Iturbe
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Conducta, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), CDMX, Mexico; Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), 14 Sur 6301, Puebla 72570, Mexico
| | - Rubén Antonio Vázquez-Roque
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), 14 Sur 6301, Puebla 72570, Mexico
| | - Fidel De la Cruz-López
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Conducta, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), CDMX, Mexico
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), 14 Sur 6301, Puebla 72570, Mexico
| | - Linda Garcés-Ramírez
- Laboratorio de Fisiología de la Conducta, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), CDMX, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
The Effectiveness of Cobalamin (B12) Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11080784. [PMID: 34442428 PMCID: PMC8400809 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11080784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 2% of children in the United States. Biochemical abnormalities associated with ASD include impaired methylation and sulphation capacities along with low glutathione (GSH) redox capacity. Potential treatments for these abnormalities include cobalamin (B12). This systematic review collates the studies using B12 as a treatment in ASD. A total of 17 studies were identified; 4 were double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (2 examined B12 injections alone and 2 used B12 in an oral multivitamin); 1 was a prospective controlled study; 6 were prospective, uncontrolled studies, and 6 were retrospective (case series and reports). Most studies (83%) used oral or injected methylcobalamin (mB12), while the remaining studies did not specify the type of B12 used. Studies using subcutaneous mB12 injections (including 2 placebo-controlled studies) used a 64.5-75 µg/kg/dose. One study reported anemia in 2 ASD children with injected cyanocobalamin that resolved with switching to injected mB12. Two studies reported improvements in markers of mitochondrial metabolism. A meta-analysis of methylation metabolites demonstrated decreased S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), and increased methionine, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), SAM/SAH ratio, and homocysteine (with small effect sizes) with mB12. Meta-analysis of the transsulfuration and redox metabolism metabolites demonstrated significant improvements with mB12 in oxidized glutathione (GSSG), cysteine, total glutathione (GSH), and total GSH/GSSG redox ratio with medium to large effect sizes. Improvements in methylation capacity and GSH redox ratio were significantly associated with clinical improvements (with a mean moderate effect size of 0.59) in core and associated ASD symptoms, including expressive communication, personal and domestic daily living skills, and interpersonal, play-leisure, and coping social skills, suggesting these biomarkers may predict response to B12. Other clinical improvements observed with B12 included sleep, gastrointestinal symptoms, hyperactivity, tantrums, nonverbal intellectual quotient, vision, eye contact, echolalia, stereotypy, anemia, and nocturnal enuresis. Adverse events identified by meta-analysis included hyperactivity (11.9%), irritability (3.4%), trouble sleeping (7.6%), aggression (1.8%), and worsening behaviors (7.7%) but were generally few, mild, not serious, and not significantly different compared to placebo. In one study, 78% of parents desired to continue mB12 injections after the study conclusion. Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that B12, particularly subcutaneously injected mB12, improves metabolic abnormalities in ASD along with clinical symptoms. Further large multicenter placebo-controlled studies are needed to confirm these data. B12 is a promising treatment for ASD.
Collapse
|