1
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McCanlies EC, Gu JK, Kashon M, Yucesoy B, Ma CC, Sanderson WT, Kim K, Ludeña-Rodriguez YJ, Hertz-Picciotto I. Parental occupational exposure to solvents and autism spectrum disorder: An exploratory look at gene-environment interactions. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115769. [PMID: 37004853 PMCID: PMC10273405 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Erin C McCanlies
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA.
| | - Ja Kook Gu
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Michael Kashon
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Berran Yucesoy
- Former Affiliate of Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Claudia C Ma
- Former Affiliate of Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | | | - Kyoungmi Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | | | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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2
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Nudel R, Allesøe RL, Werge T, Thompson WK, Rasmussen S, Benros ME. An immunogenetic investigation of 30 autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases and their links to psychiatric disorders in a nationwide sample. Immunology 2023; 168:622-639. [PMID: 36273265 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases (AIIDs) involve a deficit in an individual's immune system function, whereby the immune reaction is directed against self-antigens. Many AIIDs have a strong genetic component, but they can also be triggered by environmental factors. AIIDs often have a highly negative impact on the individual's physical and mental wellbeing. Understanding the genetic underpinning of AIIDs is thus crucial both for diagnosis and for identifying individuals at high risk of an AIID and mental illness as a result thereof. The aim of the present study was to perform systematic statistical and genetic analyses to assess the role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles in 30 AIIDs and to study the links between AIIDs and psychiatric disorders. We leveraged the Danish iPSYCH Consortium sample comprising 65 534 individuals diagnosed with psychiatric disorders or selected as part of a random population sample, for whom we also had genetic data and diagnoses of AIIDs. We employed regression analysis to examine comorbidities between AIIDs and psychiatric disorders and associations between AIIDs and HLA alleles across seven HLA genes. Our comorbidity analyses showed that overall AIID and five specific AIIDs were associated with having a psychiatric diagnosis. Our genetic analyses found 81 significant associations between HLA alleles and AIIDs. Lastly, we show connections across AIIDs, psychiatric disorders and infection susceptibility through network analysis of significant HLA associations in these disease classes. Combined, our results include both novel associations as well as replications of previously reported associations in a large sample, and highlight the genetic and epidemiological links between AIIDs and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Nudel
- CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rosa Lundbye Allesøe
- CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Werge
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Wesley K Thompson
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- Division of Biostatistics, Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Simon Rasmussen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael E Benros
- CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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3
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Alomar HA, Ansari MA, Nadeem A, Attia SM, Bakheet SA, Al-Mazroua HA, Hussein MH, Alqarni SA, Ahmad SF. A potent and selective CXCR2 antagonist improves neuroimmune dysregulation through the inhibition of NF-κB and notch inflammatory signaling in the BTBR mouse model of autism. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 377:578069. [PMID: 36931207 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Autism comprises a broad range of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Chemokine receptor CXCR2 is expressed on neurons and is upregulated in neurological disorders. BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, a model for autism that shows the core features of ASD. Here, we studied the anti-inflammatory effect of a potent and selective CXCR2 antagonist SB332235 in the BTBR mice. The CXCR2 antagonist represents a promising therapeutic agent for several neuroinflammatory disorders. In this study, we investigated the effects of SB332235 administration on NF-κB-, Notch-1-, Notch-3-, GM-CSF-, MCP-1-, IL-6-, and IL-2- and TGF-β1-expressing CD40+ cells in BTBR and C57BL/6 (C57) mice in the spleen cells by flow cytometry. We further assessed the effect of SB332235 treatment on NF-κB, Notch-1, GM-CSF, MCP-1, IL-6, and IL-2 mRNA expression levels in the brain tissue by RT-PCR. We also explored the effect of SB332235 administration on NF-κB, GM-CSF, IL-6, and TGF-β1 protein expression levels in the brain tissue by western blotting. The SB332235-treated BTBR mice significantly decreases in CD40 + NF-κB+, CD40 + Notch-1+, CD40 + Notch-3+, CD40 + GM-CSF+, CD40 + MCP-1+, CD40 + IL-6+, and CD40 + IL-2+, and increases in CD40 + TGF-β1+ in the spleen cells. Our results further demonstrated that BTBR mice treated with SB332235 effectively decreased NF-κB, Notch-1, GM-CSF, MCP-1, IL-6, and IL-2, increasing TGF-β1 mRNA and protein expression levels in the brain tissue. In conclusion, these results indicate that SB332235 elicits an anti-inflammatory response by downregulating the inflammatory mediators and NF-κB/Notch inflammatory signaling in BTBR mice. This could represent a promising novel therapeutic target for autism treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatun A Alomar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haneen A Al-Mazroua
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwa H Hussein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Alqarni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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4
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Nudel R, Thompson WK, Børglum AD, Hougaard DM, Mortensen PB, Werge T, Nordentoft M, Benros ME. Maternal pregnancy-related infections and autism spectrum disorder-the genetic perspective. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:334. [PMID: 35974006 PMCID: PMC9381559 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a group of neurodevelopmental disorders which include deficits in behavior, social interaction and communication. ASD has a complex genetic architecture, and it is also influenced by certain environmental exposures. Both types of predisposing factors may be related to immunological mechanisms, involving, for example, immune system genes and infections. Past studies have shown an association between infections occurring during the pregnancy in the mother and increased risk of ASD in the child, an observation which has received recent support from experimental animal studies of ASD-like behavior. The aim of this study was to study the genetic contribution to this effect. We employed genetic correlation analyses across potential ASD subtypes stratified on the basis of maternal pregnancy-related infections within the iPSYCH ASD case-cohort sample, as well as a case-case GWAS. We validated the trends of the genetic correlation analyses observed in our sample using GWAS summary statistics from the PGC ASD study (excluding iPSYCH). The genetic correlation between ASD with a history of maternal pregnancy-related infections and ASD without a history of maternal infections in iPSYCH was rg = 0.3811. We obtained a similar estimate between the former and the PGC ASD phenotype (rg = 0.3997). Both estimates are lower compared to the genetic correlation between ASD without a history of maternal infections and the PGC ASD phenotype (rg = 0.6735), and between ASD with a history of maternal infections occurring only more than 2 months following childbirth and the PGC ASD phenotype (rg = 0.6293). Additionally, we observed genetic variance between the two main ASD phenotypes using summary statistics from the case-case GWAS in iPSYCH (h2cc = 0.1059), indicating genome-wide differences between the phenotypes. Our results suggest potentially different etiologies of ASD based on a history of maternal pregnancy-related infections, which may, in part, be genetic. This highlights the relevance of maternal pregnancy-related infections to genetic studies of ASD and provides new insights into the molecular underpinnings of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Nudel
- grid.4973.90000 0004 0646 7373CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Wesley K. Thompson
- grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.466916.a0000 0004 0631 4836Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark ,grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, University of California, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Anders D. Børglum
- grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University and Centre for Integrative Sequencing, iSEQ, Aarhus, Denmark ,Aarhus Genome Center, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - David M. Hougaard
- grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.6203.70000 0004 0417 4147Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Preben B. Mortensen
- grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.7048.b0000 0001 1956 2722National Center for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas Werge
- grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.466916.a0000 0004 0631 4836Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark ,grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- grid.4973.90000 0004 0646 7373CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael E. Benros
- grid.4973.90000 0004 0646 7373CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.452548.a0000 0000 9817 5300iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark ,grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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Nudel R, Appadurai V, Buil A, Nordentoft M, Werge T. Pleiotropy between language impairment and broader behavioral disorders-an investigation of both common and rare genetic variants. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:54. [PMID: 34773992 PMCID: PMC8590378 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09403-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Language plays a major role in human behavior. For this reason, neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in which linguistic ability is impaired could have a big impact on the individual's social interaction and general wellbeing. Such disorders tend to have a strong genetic component, but most past studies examined mostly the linguistic overlaps across these disorders; investigations into their genetic overlaps are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the potential genetic overlap between language impairment and broader behavioral disorders employing methods capturing both common and rare genetic variants. METHODS We employ polygenic risk scores (PRS) trained on specific language impairment (SLI) to evaluate genetic overlap across several disorders in a large case-cohort sample comprising ~13,000 autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases, including cases of childhood autism and Asperger's syndrome, ~15,000 attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cases, ~3000 schizophrenia cases, and ~21,000 population controls. We also examine rare variants in SLI/language-related genes in a subset of the sample that was exome-sequenced using the SKAT-O method. RESULTS We find that there is little evidence for genetic overlap between SLI and ADHD, schizophrenia, and ASD, the latter being in line with results of linguistic analyses in past studies. However, we observe a small, significant genetic overlap between SLI and childhood autism specifically, which we do not observe for SLI and Asperger's syndrome. Moreover, we observe that childhood autism cases have significantly higher SLI-trained PRS compared to Asperger's syndrome cases; these results correspond well to the linguistic profiles of both disorders. Our rare variant analyses provide suggestive evidence of association for specific genes with ASD, childhood autism, and schizophrenia. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides, for the first time, to our knowledge, genetic evidence for ASD subtypes based on risk variants for language impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Nudel
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, iPSYCH, Aarhus, Denmark
- CORE - Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vivek Appadurai
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, iPSYCH, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Alfonso Buil
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, iPSYCH, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, iPSYCH, Aarhus, Denmark
- CORE - Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Werge
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark.
- The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, iPSYCH, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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6
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Katrinli S, Smith AK. Immune system regulation and role of the human leukocyte antigen in posttraumatic stress disorder. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 15:100366. [PMID: 34355049 PMCID: PMC8322450 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that adversely affect mental and physical health. Recent studies have increasingly explored the role of the immune system in risk for PTSD and its related symptoms. Dysregulation of the immune system may lead to central nervous system tissue damage and impair learning and memory processes. Individuals with PTSD often have comorbid inflammatory or auto-immune disorders. Evidence shows associations between PTSD and multiple genes that are involved in immune-related or inflammatory pathways. In this review, we will summarize the evidence of immune dysregulation in PTSD, outlining the contributions of distinct cell types, genes, and biological pathways. We use the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) locus to illustrate the contribution of genetic variation to function in different tissues that contribute to PTSD etiology, severity, and comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyma Katrinli
- Emory University, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Emory University, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Atlanta, GA, USA
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7
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Sun JM, Kurtzberg J. Stem cell therapies in cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorder. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:503-510. [PMID: 33398874 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Across disciplines, there is great anticipation that evolving cell therapies may finally provide a therapeutic option for conditions in dire need. These conditions are typically complex and their pathophysiology incompletely understood, hindering the development of robust preclinical models and the precise assessment of therapeutic effects in human studies. This article provides an overview of the status of cell therapy investigations in two common neurodevelopmental disorders, cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorder. Challenges facing this line of study, including inherent heterogeneity, knowledge gaps, and unrealistic expectations, are discussed. Much progress has been made in the past decade, but to definitively determine if cell therapies have a role in the treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders, both fields will need to evolve together. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: The safety profile of reported cell therapies in children with neurodevelopmental disorders is encouraging. Efficacy trials in cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorder are ongoing in the United States and Asia. Unresolved issues pertain to the properties of the cells being studied and the characteristics of the neurodevelopmental conditions themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Sun
- The Marcus Center for Cellular Cures, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joanne Kurtzberg
- The Marcus Center for Cellular Cures, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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8
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Dysregulation of Ki-67 Expression in T Cells of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8020116. [PMID: 33562037 PMCID: PMC7915849 DOI: 10.3390/children8020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by behavioral abnormalities such as impairments in social function and deficits in communication. The etiology of autism is unknown in most cases, but many studies have pointed towards the immune system as a causative agent in autism. Specific studies implicated lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes, cytokines, and specific transcription factors in the development of ASD. The protein Ki-67 is n expressed in the proliferating cells and is used as a tool in several disorders. Ki-67 plays a crucial role in many neurological diseases. However, Ki-67 role in ASD is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the possible role of Ki-67 expression in autistic children. We compared Ki-67 production in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CXCR4+, CXCR7+, CD45R+, HLA-DR+, GATA3+, Helios+, and FOXP3+ peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in autistic children to typically developing (TD) controls using immunofluorescence staining. We also determined Ki-67 mRNA levels in PBMCs using RT–PCR. The results revealed that autistic children had significantly increased numbers of CD3+Ki-67+, CD4+Ki-67+, CD8+Ki-67+, CXCR4+Ki-67+, CXCR7+Ki-67+, CD45R+Ki-67+, HLA-DR+Ki-67+, CXCR4+GATA3+, GATA3+Ki-67+ cells and decreased Helios+Ki-67+ and FOXP3+Ki-67+ cells compared with TD controls. In addition, the autistic children showed upregulation of Ki-67 mRNA levels compared with TD controls. Further studies need to be carried out to assess the exact role of Ki-67 and its therapeutic potential in ASD.
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9
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Non-classical human leukocyte antigen class I in Tunisian children with autism. Cent Eur J Immunol 2021; 45:176-183. [PMID: 33456328 PMCID: PMC7792448 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2020.97906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are one of the most common childhood morbidities characterized by deficits in communication and social skills. Increasing evidence has suggested associations between immune genes located in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex and etiology of autism. In this study, we investigated whether the non-classical class I HLA-G, -E, and -F polymorphisms are associated with genetic predisposition to autism in Tunisia. We aimed to find a correlation between HLA-G genotypes and soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) levels. We have analyzed the HLA-G, -E, and -F genotypes of 15 autistic children and their parents. DNA typing of HLA class I genes was performed using PCR-SSP and PCR-RFLP methods. Also, we evaluated the serum levels of HLA-G (1 and 5) by a validated ELISA technique in autistic probands and their parents. No association was found between any polymorphism and autism in the study subjects. Additionally, we found no correlation between sHLA-G1 and sHLA-G5 and autism. Also, no significant difference in sHLA-G testing in parents and offspring was found. However, parents carrying [GG] genotype presented a higher sHLA-G levels than those carrying ([CC]+[GC]) genotypes (p = 0.037). From this preliminary study, we conclude that the investigated polymorphisms of HLA-G, -E, and -F genes did not lead to autism susceptibility in Tunisian children. However, the CGTIGA haplotype was found to be associated with the disease.
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10
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Bogari NM, Al-Allaf FA, Aljohani A, Taher MM, Qutub NA, Alhelfawi S, Alobaidi A, Alqudah DM, Banni H, Dairi G, Amin AA. The Co-existence of ADHD With Autism in Saudi Children: An Analysis Using Next-Generation DNA Sequencing. Front Genet 2020; 11:548559. [PMID: 33384710 PMCID: PMC7770135 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.548559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders. Several studies have confirmed the co-existence of other neuropsychiatric disorders with ADHD. Out of 106 individuals suspected to have ADHD, eight Saudi Arabian pediatric patients were diagnosed with ADHD using a dual assessment procedure based on highly significant scores from the international criteria for diagnosis; (full form DMS) DSM-5. Then, these patients were examined for the co-existence of autism and ADHD using different international diagnostic protocols. Four patients with combined ADHD and autism and four ADHD patients without autism were examined for the presence of genetic variants. Six variants (chr1:98165091, chr6:32029183, chr6:32035603, chr6:32064098, chr8:2909992, chr16:84213434) were identified in 75% of the patients with ADHD and autism, indicating that these genes may have a possible role in causing autism. Five variants (The chr2:116525960, chr15:68624396, chr15:91452595, chr15:92647645, and chr16:82673047) may increase to the severity of ADHD. This study recommends screening these eleven variants in ADHD cases and their relevant controls to confirm the prevalence in the Saudi population. It is recommended that future studies examine the 11 variants in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda M. Bogari
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal A. Al-Allaf
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashwag Aljohani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohiuddin M. Taher
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
- Science and Technology Unit, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nermeen A. Qutub
- Special Need Department, School of Education, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suhair Alhelfawi
- Special Need Department, School of Education, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
- Institute of Education, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Amal Alobaidi
- Sinad City for Special Education, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Derar M. Alqudah
- Special Need Department, School of Education, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussain Banni
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghida Dairi
- Medicine and Medical Sciences Research Center, Deanship of Scientific Research, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amr A. Amin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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11
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Zhu Y, Mordaunt CE, Durbin-Johnson BP, Caudill MA, Malysheva OV, Miller JW, Green R, James SJ, Melnyk SB, Fallin MD, Hertz-Picciotto I, Schmidt RJ, LaSalle JM. Expression Changes in Epigenetic Gene Pathways Associated With One-Carbon Nutritional Metabolites in Maternal Blood From Pregnancies Resulting in Autism and Non-Typical Neurodevelopment. Autism Res 2020; 14:11-28. [PMID: 33159718 PMCID: PMC7894157 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The prenatal period is a critical window for the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The relationship between prenatal nutrients and gestational gene expression in mothers of children later diagnosed with ASD or non-typical development (Non-TD) is poorly understood. Maternal blood collected prospectively during pregnancy provides insights into the effects of nutrition, particularly one-carbon metabolites, on gene pathways and neurodevelopment. Genome-wide transcriptomes were measured with microarrays in 300 maternal blood samples in Markers of Autism Risk in Babies-Learning Early Signs. Sixteen different one-carbon metabolites, including folic acid, betaine, 5'-methyltretrahydrofolate (5-MeTHF), and dimethylglycine (DMG) were measured. Differential expression analysis and weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) were used to compare gene expression between children later diagnosed as typical development (TD), Non-TD and ASD, and to one-carbon metabolites. Using differential gene expression analysis, six transcripts (TGR-AS1, SQSTM1, HLA-C, and RFESD) were associated with child outcomes (ASD, Non-TD, and TD) with genome-wide significance. Genes nominally differentially expressed between ASD and TD significantly overlapped with seven high confidence ASD genes. WGCNA identified co-expressed gene modules significantly correlated with 5-MeTHF, folic acid, DMG, and betaine. A module enriched in DNA methylation functions showed a suggestive protective association with folic acid/5-MeTHF concentrations and ASD risk. Maternal plasma betaine and DMG concentrations were associated with a block of co-expressed genes enriched for adaptive immune, histone modification, and RNA processing functions. These results suggest that the prenatal maternal blood transcriptome is a sensitive indicator of gestational one-carbon metabolite status and changes relevant to children's later neurodevelopmental outcomes. LAY SUMMARY: Pregnancy is a time when maternal nutrition could interact with genetic risk for autism spectrum disorder. Blood samples collected during pregnancy from mothers who had a prior child with autism were examined for gene expression and nutrient metabolites, then compared to the diagnosis of the child at age three. Expression differences in gene pathways related to the immune system and gene regulation were observed for pregnancies of children with autism and non-typical neurodevelopment and were associated with maternal nutrients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Zhu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, and Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, California, USA.,MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Charles E Mordaunt
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, and Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, California, USA.,MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | | | - Marie A Caudill
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Olga V Malysheva
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Joshua W Miller
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ralph Green
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - S Jill James
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Stepan B Melnyk
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - M Daniele Fallin
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA.,Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Rebecca J Schmidt
- MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA.,Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, and Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, California, USA.,MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
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12
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Nudel R, Christiani CAJ, Ohland J, Uddin MJ, Hemager N, Ellersgaard DV, Spang KS, Burton BK, Greve AN, Gantriis DL, Bybjerg-Grauholm J, Jepsen JRM, Thorup AAE, Mors O, Nordentoft M, Werge T. Language deficits in specific language impairment, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorder: An analysis of polygenic risk. Autism Res 2019; 13:369-381. [PMID: 31577390 PMCID: PMC7078922 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Language is one of the cognitive domains often impaired across many neurodevelopmental disorders. While for some disorders the linguistic deficit is the primary impairment (e.g., specific language impairment, SLI), for others it may accompany broader behavioral problems (e.g., autism). The precise nature of this phenotypic overlap has been the subject of debate. Moreover, several studies have found genetic overlaps across neurodevelopmental disorders. This raises the question of whether these genetic overlaps may correlate with phenotypic overlaps and, if so, in what manner. Here, we apply a genome‐wide approach to the study of the linguistic deficit in SLI, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using a discovery genome‐wide association study of SLI, we generate polygenic risk scores (PRS) in an independent sample which includes children with language impairment, SLI, ASD or ADHD and age‐matched controls and perform regression analyses across groups. The SLI‐trained PRS significantly predicted risk in the SLI case–control group (adjusted R2 = 6.24%; P = 0.024) but not in the ASD or ADHD case‐control groups (adjusted R2 = 0.0004%, 0.01%; P = 0.984, 0.889, respectively) nor for height, used as a negative control (R2 = 0.2%; P = 0.452). Additionally, there was a significant difference in the normalized PRS between children with SLI and children with ASD (common language effect size = 0.66; P = 0.044). Our study suggests no additive common‐variant genetic overlap between SLI and ASD and ADHD. This is discussed in the context of phenotypic studies of SLI and related disorders. Autism Res 2020, 13: 369–381. © 2019 The Authors. Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Lay Summary Language deficits are characteristic of specific language impairment (SLI), but may also be found in other neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Many studies examined the overlaps and differences across the language deficits in these disorders, but few studies have examined the genetic aspect thereof. In this study, we use a genome‐wide approach to evaluate whether common genetic variants increasing risk of SLI may also be associated with ASD and ADHD in the same manner. Our results suggest that this is not the case, and we discuss this finding in the context of theories concerning the etiologies of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Nudel
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark.,iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Camilla A J Christiani
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jessica Ohland
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Md Jamal Uddin
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Section for Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nicoline Hemager
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ditte V Ellersgaard
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine S Spang
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - Research Unit, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgitte K Burton
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - Research Unit, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Aja N Greve
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Risskov, Denmark
| | - Ditte L Gantriis
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Risskov, Denmark
| | - Jonas Bybjerg-Grauholm
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Richardt M Jepsen
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - Research Unit, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Neuropsychiatric Schizophrenia Research and Center for Clinical Intervention and Neuropsychiatric Schizophrenia Research, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne A E Thorup
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - Research Unit, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Mors
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Risskov, Denmark
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Werge
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark.,iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Nudel R, Benros ME, Krebs MD, Allesøe RL, Lemvigh CK, Bybjerg-Grauholm J, Børglum AD, Daly MJ, Nordentoft M, Mors O, Hougaard DM, Mortensen PB, Buil A, Werge T, Rasmussen S, Thompson WK. Immunity and mental illness: findings from a Danish population-based immunogenetic study of seven psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Eur J Hum Genet 2019; 27:1445-1455. [PMID: 30976114 PMCID: PMC6777475 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-019-0402-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes encode proteins with important roles in the regulation of the immune system. Many studies have also implicated HLA genes in psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, these studies usually focus on one disorder and/or on one HLA candidate gene, often with small samples. Here, we access a large dataset of 65,534 genotyped individuals consisting of controls (N = 19,645) and cases having one or more of autism spectrum disorder (N = 12,331), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (N = 14,397), schizophrenia (N = 2401), bipolar disorder (N = 1391), depression (N = 18,511), anorexia (N = 2551) or intellectual disability (N = 3175). We imputed participants' HLA alleles to investigate the involvement of HLA genes in these disorders using regression models. We found a pronounced protective effect of DPB1*1501 on susceptibility to autism (p = 0.0094, OR = 0.72) and intellectual disability (p = 0.00099, OR = 0.41), with an increased protective effect on a comorbid diagnosis of both disorders (p = 0.003, OR = 0.29). We also identified a risk allele for intellectual disability, B*5701 (p = 0.00016, OR = 1.33). Associations with both alleles survived FDR correction and a permutation procedure. We did not find significant evidence for replication of previously-reported associations for autism or schizophrenia. Our results support an implication of HLA genes in autism and intellectual disability, which requires replication by other studies. Our study also highlights the importance of large sample sizes in HLA association studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Nudel
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael E Benros
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Dybdahl Krebs
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rosa Lundbye Allesøe
- Department of Bio and Health Informatics, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Camilla Koldbæk Lemvigh
- Department of Bio and Health Informatics, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jonas Bybjerg-Grauholm
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders D Børglum
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University and Centre for Integrative Sequencing, iSEQ, Aarhus, Denmark
- Aarhus Genome Center, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mark J Daly
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Mental Health Centre Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Mors
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Psychosis Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Risskov, Denmark
| | - David M Hougaard
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Neonatal Screening, Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Preben Bo Mortensen
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Center for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Alfonso Buil
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Werge
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Simon Rasmussen
- Department of Bio and Health Informatics, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Wesley K Thompson
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Sct. Hans, Mental Health Services Copenhagen, Roskilde, Denmark.
- iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA.
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14
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Rodriguez N, Morer A, González-Navarro EA, Gassó P, Boloc D, Serra-Pagès C, Lafuente A, Lazaro L, Mas S. Human-leukocyte antigen class II genes in early-onset obsessive-compulsive disorder. World J Biol Psychiatry 2019; 20:352-358. [PMID: 28562177 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2017.1327669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The exact aetiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is unknown, although there is evidence to suggest a gene-environment interaction model. Several lines of evidence support a possible role of the immune system in this model. Methods: The present study explores the allele variability in HLA genes of class II (HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQB1) in a sample of 144 early-onset OCD compared with reference samples of general population in the same geographical area. Results: None of the 39 alleles identified (allele frequency >1%) showed significant differences between OCD and reference populations. Pooling the different alleles that comprised HLA-DR4 (including DRB1*04:01, DRB1*04:04 and DRB1*04:05 alleles) we observed a significantly higher frequency (X21 = 5.53, P = 0.018; OR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.08-2.48) of these alleles in the early-onset OCD sample (10.8%) than in the reference population (6.8%). Conclusions: Taking into account the role of HLA class II genes in the central nervous system, the results presented here support a role of the immune system in the pathophysiological model of OCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Rodriguez
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Astrid Morer
- b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,d Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Neurosciences , Hospital Clinic de Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - E Azucena González-Navarro
- c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,e Immunology Service , Centre de Diagnostic Biomèdic, Hospital Clínic Dept , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Patricia Gassó
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Daniel Boloc
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Carles Serra-Pagès
- c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,e Immunology Service , Centre de Diagnostic Biomèdic, Hospital Clínic Dept , Barcelona , Spain.,f Dept. Biomedicine , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Amalia Lafuente
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Luisa Lazaro
- b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,d Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Neurosciences , Hospital Clinic de Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,g Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Sergi Mas
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
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15
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Liu Q, Chen MX, Sun L, Wallis CU, Zhou JS, Ao LJ, Li Q, Sham PC. Rational use of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:55-72. [PMID: 30842805 PMCID: PMC6397804 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i2.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) refer to a range of conditions characterized by impaired social and communication skills and repetitive behaviors caused by different combinations of genetic and environmental influences. Although the pathophysiology underlying ASD is still unclear, recent evidence suggests that immune dysregulation and neuroinflammation play a role in the etiology of ASD. In particular, there is direct evidence supporting a role for maternal immune activation during prenatal life in neurodevelopmental conditions. Currently, the available options of behavioral therapies and pharmacological and supportive nutritional treatments in ASD are only symptomatic. Given the disturbing rise in the incidence of ASD, and the fact that there is no effective pharmacological therapy for ASD, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic options. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess immunomodulatory properties that make them relevant to several diseases associated with inflammation and tissue damage. The paracrine regenerative mechanisms of MSCs are also suggested to be therapeutically beneficial for ASD. Thus the underlying pathology in ASD, including immune system dysregulation and inflammation, represent potential targets for MSC therapy. This review will focus on immune dysfunction in the pathogenesis of ASD and will further discuss the therapeutic potential for MSCs in mediating ASD-related immunological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Liu
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mo-Xian Chen
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Lin Sun
- Department of Psychology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chloe U Wallis
- Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Jian-Song Zhou
- Mental Health Institute of the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Li-Juan Ao
- School of Rehabilitation, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Psychiatry, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pak C Sham
- Department of Psychiatry, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Center for Genomic Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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16
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Harville T, Rhodes-Clark B, Bennuri SC, Delhey L, Slattery J, Tippett M, Wynne R, Rose S, Kahler S, Frye RE. Inheritance of HLA-Cw7 Associated With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:612. [PMID: 31572230 PMCID: PMC6749146 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined disorder that is now thought to affect approximately 1 in 69 children in the United States. In most cases, the etiology is unknown, but several studies point to the interaction of genetic predisposition with environmental factors. The immune system is thought to have a causative role in ASD, and specific studies have implicated T lymphocytes, monocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, and certain cytokines. The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system is involved in the underlying process for shaping an individual's immune system, and specific HLA alleles are associated with specific diseases as risk factors. In this study, we determine whether a specific HLA allele was associated with ASD in a large cohort of patients with ASD. Identifying such an association could help in the identification of immune system components which may have a causative role in specific cohorts of patients with ASD who share similar specific clinical features. Specimens from 143 patients with ASD were analyzed with respect to race and ethnicity. Overall, HLA-Cw7 was present in a much greater frequency than expected in individuals with ASD as compared to the general population. Further, the cohort of patients who express HLA-Cw7 shares specific immune system/inflammatory clinical features including being more likely to have allergies, food intolerances, and chronic sinusitis as compared to those with ASD who did not express HLA-Cw7. HLA-Cw7 has a role in stimulating NK cells. Thus, this finding may indicate that chronic over-activation of NK cells may have a role in the manifestation of ASD in a cohort of patients with increased immune system/inflammatory features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry Harville
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Bobbie Rhodes-Clark
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Sirish C Bennuri
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.,Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Leanna Delhey
- School of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.,Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - John Slattery
- BioRosa Technologies Inc, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marie Tippett
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.,Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Rebecca Wynne
- National Center for Toxicological Research, Jefferson, AR, United States
| | - Shannon Rose
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.,Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Stephen Kahler
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States.,Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Richard E Frye
- Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, United States.,Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, United States
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17
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Ahmad SF, Ansari MA, Nadeem A, Bakheet SA, Al-Ayadhi LY, Alotaibi MR, Alhoshani AR, Al-Hosaini KA, Attia SM. Dysregulation of the expression of HLA-DR, costimulatory molecule, and chemokine receptors on immune cells in children with autism. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 65:360-365. [PMID: 30380510 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous disorder diagnosed based on the severity of abnormalities in social skills. Several studies have acknowledged the presence of abnormal immune functions among individuals diagnosed with ASD. HLA-DR (human leukocyte antigen-antigen D related) has been shown to play a significant role in several inflammatory and neurological disorders; however, the role of HLA-DR signaling in ASD has not yet been fully clarified. In this study, we investigated the role of HLA-DR signaling in children with ASD. Flow cytometric analysis, using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), revealed the numbers of CD4+, CD8+, CD28+, CXCR4+, and CCR7+ expressing HLA-DR cells in typically developing (TD) controls and children with ASD. We also determined the numbers of IFN-γ+, IL-21+, and Foxp3+ expressing HLA-DR cells in TD controls and in children with ASD using PBMCs. We observed mRNA and protein expression levels of HLA-DR by RT-PCR and western blotting analysis. Our results revealed that children with ASD had significantly increased numbers of HLA-DR+CD4+, HLA-DR+CD8+, CD28+HLA-DR+, HLA-DR+CXCR4+, HLA-DR+CCR7+ cells compared with TD controls. We found that children with ASD showed increased HLA-DR+IFN-γ+ and HLA-DR+IL-21+ and decreased HLA-DR+Foxp3+ expression levels compared with TD controls. Furthermore, children with ASD showed higher HLA-DR mRNA and protein expression levels compared with TD controls. These results indicated that HLA-DR could play an essential role in the immune abnormalities associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- 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
| | - 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
| | - Moureq R Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali R Alhoshani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled A Al-Hosaini
- 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; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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18
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Valayi S, Eftekharian MM, Taheri M, Alikhani MY. Evaluation of antibodies to cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus in patients with autism spectrum disorder. Hum Antibodies 2018; 26:165-169. [PMID: 29689713 DOI: 10.3233/hab-180335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disease that manifested by a wide range of behavioral disorders. Although the etiology of autism is remained unknown but it is suggested that ASD have a complex etiology, including genetic and environmental factors, which may explain the observed different behavioral disorders in these patients. One of the proposed reasons for autism is viral infection in the early stages of development. The mechanism by which viral infection could lead to autism is still unclear.Previous studiesemphasized on the role of family membersof Herpesviruses in autism susceptibility. In this study, anti-Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and anti-Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies in the serum of 45 children with autism and 45 healthy individuals were evaluated. Serum samples were isolated from 5 ml blood of the patients and controls. Sandwich ELISA was used to quantitatively measure antibodies against the mentioned viruses. Results analyzed by SPSS software showed an increased amount of anti-CMV IgG and IgM antibodies in the blood of patients with Autism but not statistically significant (P< 0.05). The anti-EBV IgM antibody in the blood of patients with Autism was not only increased but also statistically significant (P< 0.05), however, the IgG level against EBV in the serum of ASD patients showed no significant difference in comparison to healthy controls. So it can be said that although the mechanisms of viral infection in autism is unknown, but probably EBV infection is associated with an increased risk of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Valayi
- Islamic Azad University, Hamadan Branch, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Taheri
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Gładysz D, Krzywdzińska A, Hozyasz KK. Immune Abnormalities in Autism Spectrum Disorder-Could They Hold Promise for Causative Treatment? Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:6387-6435. [PMID: 29307081 PMCID: PMC6061181 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0822-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by impairments in language and communication development, social behavior, and the occurrence of stereotypic patterns of behavior and interests. Despite substantial speculation about causes of ASD, its exact etiology remains unknown. Recent studies highlight a link between immune dysfunction and behavioral traits. Various immune anomalies, including humoral and cellular immunity along with abnormalities at the molecular level, have been reported. There is evidence of altered immune function both in cerebrospinal fluid and peripheral blood. Several studies hypothesize a role for neuroinflammation in ASD and are supported by brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, as well as evidence of microglial activation. It has been shown that immune abnormalities occur in a substantial number of individuals with ASD. Identifying subgroups with immune system dysregulation and linking specific cellular immunophenotypes to different symptoms would be key to defining a group of patients with immune abnormalities as a major etiology underlying behavioral symptoms. These determinations would provide the opportunity to investigate causative treatments for a defined patient group that may specifically benefit from such an approach. This review summarizes recent insights into immune system dysfunction in individuals with ASD and discusses the potential implications for future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Gładysz
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Mother and Child, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Kamil K Hozyasz
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Mother and Child, Warsaw, Poland.
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20
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Ahmad SF, Nadeem A, Ansari MA, Bakheet SA, Al-Ayadhi LY, Attia SM. Downregulation in Helios transcription factor signaling is associated with immune dysfunction in blood leukocytes of autistic children. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 85:98-104. [PMID: 29698674 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder in which immunological imbalance has been suggested to be a major etiological component. Helios, a transcription factor, has been studied extensively in the context of human T cell regulation in health and disease, yet the role of Helios signaling has not been examined in children with ASD. In the present study, we investigated the production of Helios in CD4+, CD8+, and TIM-3+, CXCR3+ cells in typically developing (TD) controls and children with ASD and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We assayed the production of IFN-γ+Helios+, IL-21+Helios+, T-bet+Helios+, and Foxp3+Helios+ cells, and determined Helios mRNA and protein expression levels in PBMCs, in TD controls and children with ASD. Our results revealed that children with ASD had lower numbers of CD4+Helios+ CD8+Helios+, TIM-3+Helios+, and CXCR3+Helios+ cells as compared to TD controls. Our results also showed that children with ASD had decreased IFN-γ+Helios+, IL-21+Helios+, T-bet+Helios+, and Helios+Foxp3+ production compared to that in TD controls. Moreover, our results indicated that children with ASD had lower Helios mRNA and protein expression levels compared to those in TD controls. These results suggest that the Helios transcription factor may be critical to immune alterations in children with ASD. Therefore, our results suggest that targeting Helios signaling might offer a strategy for developing ASD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- 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
| | - Laila Yousef Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, AL-Amodi Autism Research Chair, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Zamani Dadaneh S, Zhou M, Qian X. Covariate-dependent negative binomial factor analysis of RNA sequencing data. Bioinformatics 2018; 34:i61-i69. [PMID: 29949981 PMCID: PMC6022606 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/bty237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Motivation High-throughput sequencing technologies, in particular RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), have become the basic practice for genomic studies in biomedical research. In addition to studying genes individually, for example, through differential expression analysis, investigating co-ordinated expression variations of genes may help reveal the underlying cellular mechanisms to derive better understanding and more effective prognosis and intervention strategies. Although there exists a variety of co-expression network based methods to analyze microarray data for this purpose, instead of blindly extending these methods for microarray data that may introduce unnecessary bias, it is crucial to develop methods well adapted to RNA-seq data to identify the functional modules of genes with similar expression patterns. Results We have developed a fully Bayesian covariate-dependent negative binomial factor analysis (dNBFA) method-dNBFA-for RNA-seq count data, to capture coordinated gene expression changes, while considering effects from covariates reflecting different influencing factors. Unlike existing co-expression network based methods, our proposed model does not require multiple ad-hoc choices on data processing, transformation, as well as co-expression measures and can be directly applied to RNA-seq data. Furthermore, being capable of incorporating covariate information, the proposed method can tackle setups with complex confounding factors in different experiment designs. Finally, the natural model parameterization removes the need for a normalization preprocessing step, as commonly adopted to compensate for the effect of sequencing-depth variations. Efficient Bayesian inference of model parameters is derived by exploiting conditional conjugacy via novel data augmentation techniques. Experimental results on several real-world RNA-seq datasets on complex diseases suggest dNBFA as a powerful tool for discovering the gene modules with significant differential expression and meaningful biological insight. Availability and implementation dNBFA is implemented in R language and is available at https://github.com/siamakz/dNBFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siamak Zamani Dadaneh
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, TEES-AgriLife Center for Bioinformatics and Genomic Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Mingyuan Zhou
- Department of Information, Risk, and Operations Management, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Xiaoning Qian
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, TEES-AgriLife Center for Bioinformatics and Genomic Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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22
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Bennabi M, Gaman A, Delorme R, Boukouaci W, Manier C, Scheid I, Si Mohammed N, Bengoufa D, Charron D, Krishnamoorthy R, Leboyer M, Tamouza R. HLA-class II haplotypes and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7639. [PMID: 29769579 PMCID: PMC5955937 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25974-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections and autoimmunity are associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), with both strongly influenced by the genetic regulation of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. The relationship between ASD and the HLA genetic diversity requires further investigation. Using a case control design, the distribution of HLA class II-DRB1 and DQB1 alleles, genotypes and haplotypes were investigated in ASD patients, versus healthy controls (HC). ASD patients meeting DSM-IV TR criteria and HC (474 and 350 respectively) were genotyped at medium resolution using a Luminex-based SSO technology. Comparisons of genotypes, allele frequencies associated with a haplotype analysis were performed. Results indicate: (i) the HLA-DRB1 *11-DQB1*07 haplotype was more prevalent in ASD patients, versus HC (Pc = 0.001), partially replicating previous data and possibly linking to gastro-intestinal (GI)-related pro-inflammatory processes, given that this haplotype associates with pediatric celiac disorders; (ii) the HLA-DRB1 *17-DQB1*02 haplotype was higher in HC, versus ASD patients (Pc = 0.002), indicating that this is a protective haplotype. Using the Autism Diagnostic Interview to assess clinical dimensions, higher scores on social (Pc = 0.006) and non-verbal functioning (Pc = 0.004) associated with the DRB1 *11 DQB1*07 haplotype. Our results support HLA involvement in ASD, with possible relevance to GI and gut-brain axis dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Bennabi
- INSERM, U1160, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France.,INSERM, U955, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France
| | - Alexandru Gaman
- INSERM, U955, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France
| | - Richard Delorme
- Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France.,DHU Protect, AP-HP, Service de psychiatrie de l'enfant et de l'adolescent, Hôpital Robert Debré, Paris, France.,Département de génétique humaine et fonctions cognitives, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Isabelle Scheid
- INSERM, U955, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France
| | | | - Djaouida Bengoufa
- Laboratoire Jean Dausset and LabEx Transplantex, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Dominique Charron
- INSERM, U1160, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Paris, France.,Laboratoire Jean Dausset and LabEx Transplantex, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Rajagopal Krishnamoorthy
- INSERM, U955, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France
| | - Marion Leboyer
- INSERM, U955, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France.,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France.,DHU PePSY, AP-HP, Pôle de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France.,Université Paris-Est-Créteil, Faculté de médecine, Créteil, France
| | - Ryad Tamouza
- INSERM, U1160, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France. .,INSERM, U955, Psychiatrie Translationnelle, Créteil, France. .,Fondation FondaMental, Créteil, France. .,Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Paris, France. .,Laboratoire Jean Dausset and LabEx Transplantex, Hôpital Saint Louis, Paris, France. .,DHU PePSY, AP-HP, Pôle de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Créteil, France.
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23
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Kara T, Akaltun İ, Cakmakoglu B, Kaya İ, Zoroğlu S. An Investigation of SDF1/CXCR4 Gene Polymorphisms in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Family-Based Study. Psychiatry Investig 2018; 15:300-305. [PMID: 29475239 PMCID: PMC5900377 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2017.05.31.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have a complex pathophysiology including genetic, inflammatory and neurodevelopmental components. We aim to investigate the relationship between ASD and gene polymorphisms of stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its receptor CXC chemokine receptor-4 (CXCR4), which may affect inflammatory and neurodevelopmental processes. METHODS 101 children diagnosed with ASD aged 2-18 and their biological parents were included in the study. All participants were assessed using an information form and the Children were assessed using Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). SDF-1 G801→A and CXCR4 C13→T polymorphisms were detected by genetic techniques. The results were evaluated using the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) and haplotype relative risk (HRR). RESULTS Following TDT evaluation for CXCR4, the assumption of equality was not rejected (χ2=1.385, p=0.239). HRR for the C allele was 1.037 [HRR (95%CI)=0.937 (0.450-2.387), χ2=0.007, p=0.933] and HRR for the T allele was 0.965 [HRR (95%CI)=0.965 (0.419- 2.221), χ2=1.219, p=0.270], but the findings were statistically insignificant. Based on TDT evaluation for SDF1, the assumption of equality cannot be rejected (χ2=0, p=0.999). HRR for the A allele was 0.701 [HRR (95%CI)=0.701 (0.372-1.319), χ2=1.219, p=0.270] and HRR for the G allele was 1.427 [HRR (95%CI)=1.427 (0.758-2.686), χ2=1.219, p=0.270], but the findings were statistically insignificant. CONCLUSION The genetic screening of blood samples from mother, father and child trios could not show a significant association between SDF1/CXCR4 genes and ASD on the basis of TDT and HRR tests. More extensive genetic studies are now needed to investigate the relationship between SDF1/CXCR4 gene polymorphisms and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayfun Kara
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İsmail Akaltun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Bedia Cakmakoglu
- Istanbul University, Institute for Experimental Medicine (DETAE), Department of Molecular Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İlyas Kaya
- Istanbul University Istanbul Medical Faculty, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Salih Zoroğlu
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Center, İstanbul, Turkey
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24
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Rom AL, Wu CS, Olsen J, Jawaheer D, Hetland ML, Mørch LS. Parental Rheumatoid Arthritis and Autism Spectrum Disorders in Offspring: A Danish Nationwide Cohort Study. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2018; 57:28-32.e1. [PMID: 29301665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maternal rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the offspring. We assessed the potential influence of both maternal and paternal RA on the risk of ASD in offspring to disentangle the influence of genetic inheritance from other conditions potentially leading to fetal programming. METHOD The nationwide cohort study included all children born alive from 1977 to 2008 in Denmark (N = 1,917,723). Cox regression models were used to calculate hazard rate ratios (HR) of ASD in offspring exposed to maternal or paternal RA, compared to unexposed children. RESULTS Maternal RA was associated with an approximately 30% increased risk of ASD in the offspring (HR = 1.31 and 95% CI = 1.06-1.63). Also, paternal RA seemed to increase the risk of ASD by approximately 30% (HR = 1.33, 95% CI = 0.97-1.82). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest maternal as well as paternal RA to be associated with an increased risk of ASD in the offspring, indicating that genetic factors associated with RA may also play a role in the etiology of ASD in children of parents with RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ane Lilleøre Rom
- Research Unit Women's and Children's Health, The Juliane Marie Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Chun Sen Wu
- Research Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, and Odense University Hospital
| | - Jørn Olsen
- Section for Epidemiology, University of Aarhus, Aarhus, Denmark, and Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles
| | | | - Merete Lund Hetland
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lina Steinrud Mørch
- Gynaecological Clinic, The Juliane Marie Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, and Danish Cancer Society Research Centre, Virus, Lifestyle and Genes Unit, Copenhagen
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25
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Sayad A, Akbari MT, Noroozi R, Omrani MD, Inoko H, Taheri M, Ghafouri-Fard S. Association of HLA alleles with autism. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2018; 14:3259-3265. [PMID: 30568448 PMCID: PMC6267725 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s186673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders known by impaired social interaction and activities and abnormal repetitive behavior. As a multifactorial disorder, several genetic and immunological factors have been shown to be implicated in its pathogenesis. METHODS Among them are certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles. In the current study, we genotyped HLA-A, -B & DRB alleles in 103 Iranian ASD patients and 180 age, gender, and ethnic-matched healthy controls. RESULTS After Boferroni correction no allele or haplotype was associated with genetic susceptibility to ASD in Iranian population. CONCLUSION Future studies are needed to assess contribution of immunological factors such as HLA alleles in ASD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezou Sayad
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,
| | - Mohammad Taghi Akbari
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rezvan Noroozi
- Photochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mir Davood Omrani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, .,Urogenital Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hidetoshi Inoko
- Department of Molecular Life Science, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Japan
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,
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26
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Tye C, Runicles AK, Whitehouse AJO, Alvares GA. Characterizing the Interplay Between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Comorbid Medical Conditions: An Integrative Review. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:751. [PMID: 30733689 PMCID: PMC6354568 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Co-occurring medical disorders and associated physiological abnormalities in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may provide insight into causal pathways or underlying biological mechanisms. Here, we review medical conditions that have been repeatedly highlighted as sharing the strongest associations with ASD-epilepsy, sleep, as well as gastrointestinal and immune functioning. We describe within each condition their prevalence, associations with behavior, and evidence for successful treatment. We additionally discuss research aiming to uncover potential aetiological mechanisms. We then consider the potential interaction between each group of conditions and ASD and, based on the available evidence, propose a model that integrates these medical comorbidities in relation to potential shared aetiological mechanisms. Future research should aim to systematically examine the interactions between these physiological systems, rather than considering these in isolation, using robust and sensitive biomarkers across an individual's development. A consideration of the overlap between medical conditions and ASD may aid in defining biological subtypes within ASD and in the development of specific targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Tye
- Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Abigail K Runicles
- Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J O Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gail A Alvares
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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27
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Woodbury-Smith M, Bilder DA, Morgan J, Jerominski L, Darlington T, Dyer T, Paterson AD, Coon H. Combined genome-wide linkage and targeted association analysis of head circumference in autism spectrum disorder families. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 9:5. [PMID: 28289475 PMCID: PMC5304400 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9187-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It has long been recognized that there is an association between enlarged head circumference (HC) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the genetics of HC in ASD is not well understood. In order to investigate the genetic underpinning of HC in ASD, we undertook a genome-wide linkage study of HC followed by linkage signal targeted association among a sample of 67 extended pedigrees with ASD. Methods HC measurements on members of 67 multiplex ASD extended pedigrees were used as a quantitative trait in a genome-wide linkage analysis. The Illumina 6K SNP linkage panel was used, and analyses were carried out using the SOLAR implemented variance components model. Loci identified in this way formed the target for subsequent association analysis using the Illumina OmniExpress chip and imputed genotypes. A modification of the qTDT was used as implemented in SOLAR. Results We identified a linkage signal spanning 6p21.31 to 6p22.2 (maximum LOD = 3.4). Although targeted association did not find evidence of association with any SNP overall, in one family with the strongest evidence of linkage, there was evidence for association (rs17586672, p = 1.72E−07). Conclusions Although this region does not overlap with ASD linkage signals in these same samples, it has been associated with other psychiatric risk, including ADHD, developmental dyslexia, schizophrenia, specific language impairment, and juvenile bipolar disorder. The genome-wide significant linkage signal represents the first reported observation of a potential quantitative trait locus for HC in ASD and may be relevant in the context of complex multivariate risk likely leading to ASD. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s11689-017-9187-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Woodbury-Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada.,Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON Canada.,St Joseph's Healthcare, West 5th Campus, 100 West 5th Street, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - D A Bilder
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - J Morgan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - L Jerominski
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - T Darlington
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - T Dyer
- University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine and South Texas Diabetes and Obesity Institute, Harlingen, TX USA
| | - A D Paterson
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON Canada.,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - H Coon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT USA
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28
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Torres AR, Sweeten TL, Johnson RC, Odell D, Westover JB, Bray-Ward P, Ward DC, Davies CJ, Thomas AJ, Croen LA, Benson M. Common Genetic Variants Found in HLA and KIR Immune Genes in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:463. [PMID: 27812316 PMCID: PMC5071356 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The "common variant-common disease" hypothesis was proposed to explain diseases with strong inheritance. This model suggests that a genetic disease is the result of the combination of several common genetic variants. Common genetic variants are described as a 5% frequency differential between diseased vs. matched control populations. This theory was recently supported by an epidemiology paper stating that about 50% of genetic risk for autism resides in common variants. However, rare variants, rather than common variants, have been found in numerous genome wide genetic studies and many have concluded that the "common variant-common disease" hypothesis is incorrect. One interpretation is that rare variants are major contributors to genetic diseases and autism involves the interaction of many rare variants, especially in the brain. It is obvious there is much yet to be learned about autism genetics. Evidence has been mounting over the years indicating immune involvement in autism, particularly the HLA genes on chromosome 6 and KIR genes on chromosome 19. These two large multigene complexes have important immune functions and have been shown to interact to eliminate unwanted virally infected and malignant cells. HLA proteins have important functions in antigen presentation in adaptive immunity and specific epitopes on HLA class I proteins act as cognate ligands for KIR receptors in innate immunity. Data suggests that HLA alleles and KIR activating genes/haplotypes are common variants in different autism populations. For example, class I allele (HLA-A2 and HLA-G 14 bp-indel) frequencies are significantly increased by more than 5% over control populations (Table 2). The HLA-DR4 Class II and shared epitope frequencies are significantly above the control populations (Table 2). Three activating KIR genes: 3DS1, 2DS1, and 2DS2 have increased frequencies of 15, 22, and 14% in autism populations, respectively. There is a 6% increase in total activating KIR genes in autism over control subjects. And, more importantly there is a 12% increase in activating KIR genes and their cognate HLA alleles over control populations (Torres et al., 2012a). These data suggest the interaction of HLA ligand/KIR receptor pairs encoded on two different chromosomes is more significant as a ligand/receptor complex than separately in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony R. Torres
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
| | | | - Randall C. Johnson
- BSP CCR Genetics Core, SAIC-Frederick, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer ResearchFrederick, MD, USA
| | - Dennis Odell
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
| | - Jonna B. Westover
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
| | - Patricia Bray-Ward
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
| | - David C. Ward
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
| | | | - Aaron J. Thomas
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente of Northern CaliforniaOakland, CA, USA
| | - Lisa A. Croen
- Center for Integrated BioSystems, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
| | - Michael Benson
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State UniversityLogan, UT, USA
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Significant Association of HLA-B Alleles and Genotypes in Thai Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Case-Control Study. DISEASE MARKERS 2015; 2015:724935. [PMID: 26819491 PMCID: PMC4706891 DOI: 10.1155/2015/724935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Many susceptible causative genes have been identified. Most of the previous reports showed the relationship between the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) gene and etiology of autism. In order to identify HLA-B alleles associated with autism in Thai population, we compared the frequency of HLA-B allele in 364 autistic subjects with 952 normal subjects by using a two-stage sequence-specific oligonucleotide probe system (PCR-SSOP) method based on flow-cytometry technology. HLA-B (⁎) 13:02 (P = 0.019, OR = 2.229), HLA-B (⁎) 38:02 (P = 0.049, OR = 1.628), HLA-B (⁎) 44:03 (P = 0.016, OR = 1.645), and HLA-B (⁎) 56:01 (P = 1.78 × 10(-4), OR = 4.927) alleles were significantly increased in autistic subjects compared with normal subjects. Moreover, we found that the HLA-B (⁎) 18:02 (P = 0.016, OR = 0.375) and HLA-B (⁎) 46:12 (P = 0.008, OR = 0.147) alleles were negatively associated with autism when compared to normal controls. Both alleles might have a protective role in disease development. In addition, four HLA-B genotypes of autistic patients had statistically significant relationship with control groups, consisting of HLA-B (⁎) 3905/(⁎) 5801 (P = 0.032, OR = 24.697), HLA-B (⁎) 2704/(⁎) 5801 (P = 0.022, OR = 6.872), HLA-B (⁎) 3501/(⁎) 4403 (P = 0.021, OR = 30.269), and HLA-B (⁎) 1801/(⁎) 4402 (P = 0.017, OR = 13.757). This is the first report on HLA-B associated with Thai autism and may serve as a marker for genetic susceptibility to autism in Thai population.
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Jaiswal P, Mohanakumar KP, Rajamma U. Serotonin mediated immunoregulation and neural functions: Complicity in the aetiology of autism spectrum disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 55:413-31. [PMID: 26021727 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Serotonergic system has long been implicated in the aetiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), since platelet hyperserotonemia is consistently observed in a subset of autistic patients, who respond well to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Apart from being a neurotransmitter, serotonin functions as a neurotrophic factor directing brain development and as an immunoregulator modulating immune responses. Serotonin transporter (SERT) regulates serotonin level in lymphoid tissues to ensure its proper functioning in innate and adaptive responses. Immunological molecules such as cytokines in turn regulate the transcription and activity of SERT. Dysregulation of serotonergic system could trigger signalling cascades that affect normal neural-immune interactions culminating in neurodevelopmental and neural connectivity defects precipitating behavioural abnormalities, or the disease phenotypes. Therefore, we suggest that a better understanding of the cross talk between serotonergic genes, immune systems and serotonergic neurotransmission will open wider avenues to develop pharmacological leads for addressing the core ASD behavioural deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Jaiswal
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector-J, EM Bypass, Kolkata 700 107, India
| | - Kochupurackal P Mohanakumar
- Division of Cell Biology & Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700 032, India
| | - Usha Rajamma
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector-J, EM Bypass, Kolkata 700 107, India.
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31
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Shimada-Sugimoto M, Otowa T, Miyagawa T, Khor SS, Kashiwase K, Sugaya N, Kawamura Y, Umekage T, Kojima H, Saji H, Miyashita A, Kuwano R, Kaiya H, Kasai K, Tanii H, Okazaki Y, Tokunaga K, Sasaki T. Immune-related pathways including HLA-DRB1(∗)13:02 are associated with panic disorder. Brain Behav Immun 2015; 46:96-103. [PMID: 25582808 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Panic disorder (PD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by panic attacks and anticipatory anxiety. Both genetic and environmental factors are thought to trigger PD onset. Previously, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for PD and focused on candidate SNPs with the lowest P values. However, there seemed to be a number of polymorphisms which did not reach genome-wide significance threshold due to their low allele frequencies and odds ratios, even though they were truly involved in pathogenesis. Therefore we performed pathway analyses in order to overcome the limitations of conventional single-marker analysis and identify associated SNPs with modest effects. Each pathway analysis indicated that pathways related to immunity showed the strongest association with PD (DAVID, P=2.08×10(-6); i-GSEA4GWAS, P<10(-3); ICSNPathway, P<10(-3)). Based on the results of pathway analyses and the previously performed GWAS for PD, we focused on and investigated HLA-B and HLA-DRB1 as candidate susceptibility genes for PD. We typed HLA-B and HLA-DRB1 in 744 subjects with PD and 1418 control subjects. Patients with PD were significantly more likely to carry HLA-DRB1(∗)13:02 (P=2.50×10(-4), odds ratio=1.54). Our study provided initial evidence that HLA-DRB1(∗)13:02 and genes involved in immune-related pathways are associated with PD. Future studies are necessary to confirm these results and clarify the underlying mechanisms causing PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihoko Shimada-Sugimoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Otowa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Taku Miyagawa
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seik-Soon Khor
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Kashiwase
- Japanese Red Cross Kanto-Koshinetsu Block Blood Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nagisa Sugaya
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Kawamura
- Department of Psychiatry, Sakae Seijinkai Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tadashi Umekage
- Division for Environment, Health and Safety, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Akinori Miyashita
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Center for Bioresources, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Ryozo Kuwano
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Center for Bioresources, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hisanobu Kaiya
- Panic Disorder Research Center, Warakukai Med. Corp., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyoto Kasai
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Tanii
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Medical Life Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Yuji Okazaki
- Tokyo Metropolitan Matsuzawa Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsushi Tokunaga
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Sasaki
- Department of Physical and Health Education, Graduate School of Education, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Gesundheit B, Ashwood P, Keating A, Naor D, Melamed M, Rosenzweig JP. Therapeutic properties of mesenchymal stem cells for autism spectrum disorders. Med Hypotheses 2014; 84:169-77. [PMID: 25592283 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2014.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) highlight hyperactivity of the immune system, irregular neuronal growth and increased size and number of microglia. Though the small sample size in many of these studies limits extrapolation to all individuals with ASD, there is mounting evidence of both immune and nervous system related pathogenesis in at least a subset of patients with ASD. Given the disturbing rise in incidence rates for ASD, and the fact that no pharmacological therapy for ASD has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is an urgent need for new therapeutic options. Research in the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for other immunological and neurological conditions has shown promising results in preclinical and even clinical studies. MSC have demonstrated the ability to suppress the immune system and to promote neurogenesis with a promising safety profile. The working hypothesis of this paper is that the potentially synergistic ability of MSC to modulate a hyperactive immune system and its ability to promote neurogenesis make it an attractive potential therapeutic option specifically for ASD. Theoretical mechanisms of action will be suggested, but further research is necessary to support these hypothetical pathways. The choice of tissue source, type of cell, and most appropriate ages for therapeutic intervention remain open questions for further consideration. Concern over poor regulatory control of stem cell studies or treatment, and the unique ethical challenges that each child with ASD presents, demands that future research be conducted with particular caution before widespread use of the proposed therapeutic intervention is implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Davis, USA; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and the MIND Institute, University of California Davis, USA.
| | - Armand Keating
- Division of Hematology, University of Toronto, Cell Therapy Program, Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto, Canada.
| | - David Naor
- Lautenberg Center for General and Tumor Immunology, Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Michal Melamed
- Lautenberg Center for General and Tumor Immunology, Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Li X, Qu F, Xie W, Wang F, Liu H, Song S, Chen T, Zhang Y, Zhu S, Wang Y, Guo C, Tang TS. Transcriptomic analyses of neurotoxic effects in mouse brain after intermittent neonatal administration of thimerosal. Toxicol Sci 2014; 139:452-65. [PMID: 24675092 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfu049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Thimerosal is a vaccine antimicrobial preservative which has long been suspected an iatrogenic factor possibly contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders including autism. The association between infant vaccine thimerosal exposure and autism remains an open question. Although thimerosal has been removed from mandatory childhood vaccines in the United States, thimerosal-preserved vaccines are still widely used outside of the United States especially in developing countries. Notably, thimerosal-containing vaccines are being given to the newborns within the first 12-24 h after birth in some countries. To examine the possible neurotoxic effects of early neonatal exposure to a higher level of thimerosal, FVB mice were subcutaneously injected with thimerosal-mercury at a dose which is 20× higher than that used for regular Chinese infant immunization during the first 4 months of life. Thimerosal-treated mice exhibited neural development delay, social interaction deficiency, and inclination of depression. Apparent neuropathological changes were also observed in adult mice neonatally treated with thimerosal. High-throughput RNA sequencing of autistic-behaved mice brains revealed the alternation of a number of canonical pathways involving neuronal development, neuronal synaptic function, and the dysregulation of endocrine system. Intriguingly, the elevation of anterior pituitary secreting hormones occurred exclusively in male but not in female thimerosal-treated mice, demonstrating for the first time the gender bias of thimerosal-mercury toxicity with regard to endocrine system. Our results indicate that higher dose of neonatal thimerosal-mercury (20× higher than that used in human) is capable of inducing long-lasting substantial dysregulation of neurodevelopment, synaptic function, and endocrine system, which could be the causal involvements of autistic-like behavior in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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The Relationship of HLA Class I and II Alleles and Haplotypes with Autism: A Case Control Study. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2014; 2014:242048. [PMID: 24672722 PMCID: PMC3929985 DOI: 10.1155/2014/242048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 11/30/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Earlier reports showed the relationship between autism and immune genes located in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA). In this current study, we compared the HLA class I and class II alleles and haplotypes in 35 autistic children with 100 control subjects from Saudi Arabia, using PCR-SSP method and Luminex technology. In class I the HLA-A*01 (P = 0.03, OR 2.68), A*02 (P = 0.001, OR 3.02) and HLA-B*07 (P = 0.01, OR 3.27), were significantly associated with autism. Also, the haplotype A*02-B*07 was significantly higher in autistic patients than in controls (P = 0.007, OR 5.83). In class II, DRB1*1104 was significantly higher in patients than in controls (P = 0.001, OR 8.75). The DQB1*0202 (P = 0.001,
OR 0.24), DQB1*0302 (P = 0.001,
OR 0.14), and DQB1*0501 (P = 0.012, OR 0.25), were negatively associated with disease. While the four-loci genotype study showed that A*01-B*07-DRB1*0701-DQB1*0602 (P = 0.001, OR 41.9) and the A*31-B*51-DRB1*0103-DQB1*0302 (P = 0.012, OR 4.8) are positively associated with autism among Saudi patients. This is the first report on a foreseeable risk of association of HLA-B*07 allele with autism. Thus, HLA-B*07 allele and the closely linked haplotype A*01 B*07 DRB1*0701 DQB1*0602 may serve as a marker for genetic susceptibility to autism in Saudis.
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Activating KIR molecules and their cognate ligands prevail in children with a diagnosis of ASD and in their mothers. Brain Behav Immun 2014; 36:54-60. [PMID: 24120931 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2013.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The activity of natural killer (NK) cells is modulated by the interaction between killer-cell immune globulin-like receptor (KIR) proteins and their cognate HLA ligands; activated NK cells produce inflammatory cytokines and mediate innate immune responses. Activating KIR/HLA complexes (aKIR/HLA) were recently suggested to prevail in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by brain and behavioral abnormalities and associated with a degree of inflammation. We verified whether such findings could be confirmed by analyzing two sample cohorts of Sardinian and continental Italian ASD children and their mothers. Results showed that aKIR/HLA are increased whereas inhibitory KIR/HLA complexes are reduced in ASD children; notably this skewing was even more significant in their mothers. KIR and HLA molecules are expressed by placental cells and by the trophoblast and their interactions result in immune activation and influence fetal, as well as central nervous system development and plasticity. Data herein suggest that in utero KIR/HLA immune interactions favor immune activation in ASD; this may play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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36
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Nudel R, Simpson NH, Baird G, O'Hare A, Conti-Ramsden G, Bolton PF, Hennessy ER, Monaco AP, Knight JC, Winney B, Fisher SE, Newbury DF. Associations of HLA alleles with specific language impairment. J Neurodev Disord 2014; 6:1. [PMID: 24433325 PMCID: PMC3906746 DOI: 10.1186/1866-1955-6-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) loci have been implicated in several neurodevelopmental disorders in which language is affected. However, to date, no studies have investigated the possible involvement of HLA loci in specific language impairment (SLI), a disorder that is defined primarily upon unexpected language impairment. We report association analyses of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and HLA types in a cohort of individuals affected by language impairment. Methods We perform quantitative association analyses of three linguistic measures and case-control association analyses using both SNP data and imputed HLA types. Results Quantitative association analyses of imputed HLA types suggested a role for the HLA-A locus in susceptibility to SLI. HLA-A A1 was associated with a measure of short-term memory (P = 0.004) and A3 with expressive language ability (P = 0.006). Parent-of-origin effects were found between HLA-B B8 and HLA-DQA1*0501 and receptive language. These alleles have a negative correlation with receptive language ability when inherited from the mother (P = 0.021, P = 0.034, respectively) but are positively correlated with the same trait when paternally inherited (P = 0.013, P = 0.029, respectively). Finally, case control analyses using imputed HLA types indicated that the DR10 allele of HLA-DRB1 was more frequent in individuals with SLI than population controls (P = 0.004, relative risk = 2.575), as has been reported for individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Conclusion These preliminary data provide an intriguing link to those described by previous studies of other neurodevelopmental disorders and suggest a possible role for HLA loci in language disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dianne F Newbury
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
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Gesundheit B, Rosenzweig JP, Naor D, Lerer B, Zachor DA, Procházka V, Melamed M, Kristt DA, Steinberg A, Shulman C, Hwang P, Koren G, Walfisch A, Passweg JR, Snowden JA, Tamouza R, Leboyer M, Farge-Bancel D, Ashwood P. Immunological and autoimmune considerations of Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autoimmun 2013; 44:1-7. [PMID: 23867105 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Revised: 05/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a group of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions presenting in early childhood with a prevalence ranging from 0.7% to 2.64%. Social interaction and communication skills are impaired and children often present with unusual repetitive behavior. The condition persists for life with major implications for the individual, the family and the entire health care system. While the etiology of ASD remains unknown, various clues suggest a possible association with altered immune responses and ASD. Inflammation in the brain and CNS has been reported by several groups with notable microglia activation and increased cytokine production in postmortem brain specimens of young and old individuals with ASD. Moreover several laboratories have isolated distinctive brain and CNS reactive antibodies from individuals with ASD. Large population based epidemiological studies have established a correlation between ASD and a family history of autoimmune diseases, associations with MHC complex haplotypes, and abnormal levels of various inflammatory cytokines and immunological markers in the blood. In addition, there is evidence that antibodies that are only present in some mothers of children with ASD bind to fetal brain proteins and may be a marker or risk factor for ASD. Studies involving the injection of these ASD specific maternal serum antibodies into pregnant mice during gestation, or gestational exposure of Rhesus monkeys to IgG subclass of these antibodies, have consistently elicited behavioral changes in offspring that have relevance to ASD. We will summarize the various types of studies associating ASD with the immune system, critically evaluate the quality of these studies, and attempt to integrate them in a way that clarifies the areas of immune and autoimmune phenomena in ASD research that will be important indicators for future research.
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Debnath M, Cannon DM, Venkatasubramanian G. Variation in the major histocompatibility complex [MHC] gene family in schizophrenia: associations and functional implications. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2013; 42:49-62. [PMID: 22813842 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2012.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2012] [Revised: 06/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder with a complex genetic contribution. Although multiple genetic, immunological and environmental factors are known to contribute to schizophrenia susceptibility, the underlying neurobiological mechanism(s) is yet to be established. The immune system dysfunction theory of schizophrenia is experiencing a period of renewal due to a growth in evidence implicating components of the immune system in brain function and human behavior. Current evidence indicates that certain immune molecules such as Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) and cytokines, the key regulators of immunity and inflammation are directly involved in the neurobiological processes related to neurodevelopment, neuronal plasticity, learning, memory and behavior. However, the strongest support in favor of the immune hypothesis has recently emerged from on-going genome wide association studies advocating MHC region variants as major determinants of one's risk for developing schizophrenia. Further identification of the interacting partners and receptors of MHC molecules in the brain and their role in down-stream signaling pathways of neurotransmission have implicated these molecules as potential schizophrenia risk factors. More recently, combined brain imaging and genetic studies have revealed a relationship between genetic variations within the MHC region and neuromorphometric changes during schizophrenia. Furthermore, MHC molecules play a significant role in the immune-infective and neurodevelopmental pathogenetic pathways, currently hypothesized to contribute to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Herein, we review the immunological, genetic and expression studies assessing the role of the MHC in conferring risk for developing schizophrenia, we summarize and discuss the possible mechanisms involved, making note of the challenges to, and future directions of, immunogenetic research in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monojit Debnath
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Hosur Road, Bangalore-560029, India.
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Goines PE, Ashwood P. Cytokine dysregulation in autism spectrum disorders (ASD): possible role of the environment. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2013; 36:67-81. [PMID: 22918031 PMCID: PMC3554862 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2012.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental diseases that affect an alarming number of individuals. The etiological basis of ASD is unclear, and evidence suggests it involves both genetic and environmental factors. There are many reports of cytokine imbalances in ASD. These imbalances could have a pathogenic role, or they may be markers of underlying genetic and environmental influences. Cytokines act primarily as mediators of immunological activity but they also have significant interactions with the nervous system. They participate in normal neural development and function, and inappropriate activity can have a variety of neurological implications. It is therefore possible that cytokine dysregulation contributes directly to neural dysfunction in ASD. Further, cytokine profiles change dramatically in the face of infection, disease, and toxic exposures. Imbalances in cytokines may represent an immune response to environmental contributors to ASD. The following review is presented in two main parts. First, we discuss select cytokines implicated in ASD, including IL-1Β, IL-6, IL-4, IFN-γ, and TGF-Β, and focus on their role in the nervous system. Second, we explore several neurotoxic environmental factors that may be involved in the disorders, and focus on their immunological impacts. This review represents an emerging model that recognizes the importance of both genetic and environmental factors in ASD etiology. We propose that the immune system provides critical clues regarding the nature of the gene by environment interactions that underlie ASD pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula E. Goines
- University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Molecular Biosciences
| | - Paul Ashwood
- University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology
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40
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Torres AR, Westover JB, Gibbons C, Johnson RC, Ward DC. Activating killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) and their cognate HLA ligands are significantly increased in autism. Brain Behav Immun 2012; 26:1122-7. [PMID: 22884899 PMCID: PMC3469320 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2012.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2012] [Revised: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) proteins are expressed on natural killer (NK) cells and appear important in innate and adaptive immunity. There are about 14 KIR genes on chromosome 19q13.4, composed of those that inhibit and those that activate NK cell killing. Haplotypes have different combinations of these genes meaning that not all genes are present in a subject. There are two main classes of cognate human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands (HLA-Bw4 and HLA-C1/C2) that bind to the inhibitory/activating receptors. As a general rule, the inhibitory state is maintained except when virally infected or tumor cells are encountered; however, both increased activation and inhibition states have been associated with susceptibility and protection against numerous disease states including cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Utilizing DNA from 158 Caucasian subjects with autism and 176 KIR control subjects we show for the first time a highly significant increase in four activating KIR genes (2DS5, 3DS1, 2DS1 and 2DS4) as measured by chi square values and odds ratios. In addition, our data suggests a highly significant increase in the activating KIR gene 2DS1 and its cognate HLA-C2 ligand (2DS1+C2; p = 0.00003 [Odds ratio = 2.87]). This information ties together two major immune gene complexes, the human leukocyte complex and the leukocyte receptor complex, and may partially explain immune abnormalities observed in many subjects with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony R Torres
- Center for Persons with Disabilities, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-6804, USA.
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41
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Needleman LA, McAllister AK. The major histocompatibility complex and autism spectrum disorder. Dev Neurobiol 2012; 72:1288-301. [PMID: 22760919 PMCID: PMC4365477 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2012] [Accepted: 06/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex disorder that appears to be caused by interactions between genetic changes and environmental insults during early development. A wide range of factors have been linked to the onset of ASD, but recently both genetic associations and environmental factors point to a central role for immune-related genes and immune responses to environmental stimuli. Specifically, many of the proteins encoded by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) play a vital role in the formation, refinement, maintenance, and plasticity of the brain. Manipulations of levels of MHC molecules have illustrated how disrupted MHC signaling can significantly alter brain connectivity and function. Thus, an emerging hypothesis in our field is that disruptions in MHC expression in the developing brain caused by mutations and/or immune dysregulation may contribute to the altered brain connectivity and function characteristic of ASD. This review provides an overview of the structure and function of the three classes of MHC molecules in the immune system, healthy brain, and their possible involvement in ASD.
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The influence of HLA on HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment in Anhui, China. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32303. [PMID: 22693541 PMCID: PMC3365058 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HLA-DR*04 was identified as a predictor of HIV-Associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), low CD4 T-cell responses to HIV, and low plasma HIV RNA levels in a U.S. cohort. We hypothesized that low CD4 T-cell activation leads to poor immune control of HIV in the CNS, predisposing to HAND, but also provided fewer target (activated CD4 T-cells) for HIV replication. To assess the consistency of these HLA Class II associations in a new cohort and extend analysis to HLA Class I, HLA types, neurocognitive, and virologic status were examined in a cohort of former plasma donors in China. Methods 178 HIV infected individuals in Anhui China, were HLA typed and underwent neurocognitive evaluations (using locally standardized norms), neuromedical, treatment and virologic assessments at baseline and at 12 months. Results HLA DR*04 was associated with a higher rate of baseline neurocognitive impairment (p = 0.04), neurocognitive decline (p = 0.04), and lower levels of HIV RNA in plasma (p = 0.05). HLA Class I alleles (B*27,57,58,A*03,33) that specify a CD8 T-cell response to conserved HIV sequences were neuroprotective, associated with less impairment at baseline (p = 0.037), at month 012 (p = 0.013) and less neurocognitive decline (p = 0.023) in the interval. Consistent with the theory that effective CD8 T-cell responses require CD4 T-cell support, the HLA DR*04 allele reduced the neuroprotective effect of the Class I alleles. The presence of HLA-DR*04 and the Alzheimer associated allele ApoE4 in the same individual had a synergistic negative effect on cognition (p = 0.003). Conclusions Despite major background differences between U.S. and Anhui China cohorts, HLA DR*04 predicted neurocognitive impairment and lower plasma HIV RNA levels in both populations. HLA Class I alleles associated with CD8 T-cell control of HIV were associated with protection from HAND, but protection was reduced in the presence of HLA-DR*04.
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The role of immune dysfunction in the pathophysiology of autism. Brain Behav Immun 2012; 26:383-92. [PMID: 21906670 PMCID: PMC3418145 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2011.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 427] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Revised: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a complex group of neurodevelopmental disorders encompassing impairments in communication, social interactions and restricted stereotypical behaviors. Although a link between altered immune responses and ASD was first recognized nearly 40 years ago, only recently has new evidence started to shed light on the complex multifaceted relationship between immune dysfunction and behavior in ASD. Neurobiological research in ASD has highlighted pathways involved in neural development, synapse plasticity, structural brain abnormalities, cognition and behavior. At the same time, several lines of evidence point to altered immune dysfunction in ASD that directly impacts some or all these neurological processes. Extensive alterations in immune function have now been described in both children and adults with ASD, including ongoing inflammation in brain specimens, elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles in the CSF and blood, increased presence of brain-specific auto-antibodies and altered immune cell function. Furthermore, these dysfunctional immune responses are associated with increased impairments in behaviors characteristic of core features of ASD, in particular, deficits in social interactions and communication. This accumulating evidence suggests that immune processes play a key role in the pathophysiology of ASD. This review will discuss the current state of our knowledge of immune dysfunction in ASD, how these findings may impact on underlying neuro-immune mechanisms and implicate potential areas where the manipulation of the immune response could have an impact on behavior and immunity in ASD.
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HLA Immune Function Genes in Autism. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2012; 2012:959073. [PMID: 22928105 PMCID: PMC3420779 DOI: 10.1155/2012/959073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes on chromosome 6 are instrumental in many innate and adaptive immune responses. The HLA genes/haplotypes can also be involved in immune dysfunction and autoimmune diseases. It is now becoming apparent that many of the non-antigen-presenting HLA genes make significant contributions to autoimmune diseases. Interestingly, it has been reported that autism subjects often have associations with HLA genes/haplotypes, suggesting an underlying dysregulation of the immune system mediated by HLA genes. Genetic studies have only succeeded in identifying autism-causing genes in a small number of subjects suggesting that the genome has not been adequately interrogated. Close examination of the HLA region in autism has been relatively ignored, largely due to extraordinary genetic complexity. It is our proposition that genetic polymorphisms in the HLA region, especially in the non-antigen-presenting regions, may be important in the etiology of autism in certain subjects.
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45
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Wang KS, Liu X, Zhang Q, Aragam N, Pan Y. Parent-of-origin effects of FAS and PDLIM1 in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2012; 37:46-52. [PMID: 21651830 PMCID: PMC3244498 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.100173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have suggested that there may be a parent-of-origin effect for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) candidate genes. The objective of the present study was to investigate parent-of-origin effects using a genome-wide association analysis of the International Multicentre ADHD Genetics (IMAGE) study sample. METHODS Family-based association analysis for ADHD using 846 ADHD probands and their parents was performed using the PLINK program, and parent-of-origin effects were studied using a Z score for the difference in paternal versus maternal odds ratios. RESULTS We identified 44 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) showing parent-of-origin effects at a significance level of p < 0.001. The most significant SNP, rs7614907, is at position 3q13.33 in the CDGAP gene (p = 0.000064 for parent-of-origin effect). Furthermore, 2 genes (FAS and PDLIM1) showed moderate parent-of-origin effects (p = 0.00086 for rs9658691 and p = 0.00077 for rs11188249) and strong maternal transmission (p = 0.000059 for rs9658691 and p = 0.0000068 for rs11188249). In addition, ZNF775 showed a moderate parent-of-origin effect (p = 0.00036 for rs7790549) and strong paternal transmission (p = 0.000041 for rs7790549). LIMITATIONS We only had 1 sample available for analysis. CONCLUSION These results suggest several genes or regions with moderate parent-of-origin effects, and these findings will serve as a resource for replication in other populations to elucidate the potential role of these genetic variants in ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Sheng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, PO Box 70259, Lamb Hall, Johnson City, TN 37614-1700, USA.
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46
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Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex and heterogeneous with a spectrum of diverse symptoms. Mounting evidence from a number of disciplines suggests a link between immune function and ASD. Although the causes of ASD have yet to be identified, genetic studies have uncovered a host of candidate genes relating to immune regulation that are altered in ASD, while epidemiological studies have shown a relationship with maternal immune disturbances during pregnancy and ASD. Moreover, decades of research have identified numerous systemic and cellular immune abnormalities in individuals with ASD and their families. These include changes in immune cell number, differences in cytokine and chemokine production, and alterations of cellular function at rest and in response to immunological challenge. Many of these changes in immune responses are associated with increasing impairment in behaviors that are core features of ASD. Despite this evidence, much remains to be understood about the precise mechanism by which the immune system alters neurodevelopment and to what extent it is involved in the pathogenesis of ASD. With estimates of ASD as high as 1% of children, ASD is a major public health issue. Improvements in our understanding of the interactions between the nervous and immune system during early neurodevelopment and how this interaction is different in ASD will have important therapeutic implications with wide ranging benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milo Careaga
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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47
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Abstract
The role of the immune system in neuropsychiatric diseases, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has long been hypothesized. This hypothesis has mainly been supported by family cohort studies and the immunological abnormalities found in ASD patients, but had limited findings in genetic association testing. Two cross-disorder genetic association tests were performed on the genome-wide data sets of ASD and six autoimmune disorders. In the polygenic score test, we examined whether ASD risk alleles with low effect sizes work collectively in specific autoimmune disorders and show significant association statistics. In the genetic variation score test, we tested whether allele-specific associations between ASD and autoimmune disorders can be found using nominally significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms. In both tests, we found that ASD is probabilistically linked to ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Association coefficients showed that ASD and AS were positively associated, meaning that autism susceptibility alleles may have a similar collective effect in AS. The association coefficients were negative between ASD and MS. Significant associations between ASD and two autoimmune disorders were identified. This genetic association supports the idea that specific immunological abnormalities may underlie the etiology of autism, at least in a number of cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-Y Jung
- Center for Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - I S Kohane
- Center for Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Informatics Program, Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA,i2b2 National Center for Biomedical Computing, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D P Wall
- Center for Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Division of Genomic Medicine, Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA,Center for Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, 10 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA. E-mail:
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Trowsdale J. The MHC, disease and selection. Immunol Lett 2011; 137:1-8. [PMID: 21262263 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2010] [Revised: 12/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Given large sample sizes, whole genome screens are now able to identify even quite modest contributions of common human genetic variation to disease. These approaches, made possible by the development of high-throughput, dense SNP genotyping, find few associations stronger than those for the human MHC, in multigenic autoimmune conditions. They confirm earlier findings that the major variants affecting susceptibility and resistance to autoimmunity relate to MHC class I and class II genes. It is generally assumed, although there are few good examples, that selection for resistance to infection drives evolution of MHC variation. Many MHC-associated diseases may be the price paid for an effective immune response. Interestingly, the MHC appears to influence susceptibility to conditions unrelated to immunity, including some neuropathologies. The infectious history of the individual, conditioned by their MHC, may exert an indirect effect on these diseases, although there are hints of more direct involvement of MHC molecules in neuronal systems. Here I survey the variety of conditions associated with the MHC in relation to ideas that selection through disease resistance is dependent upon MHC variation, not only at the level of the individual, but also at the level of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Trowsdale
- Department of Pathology, Tennis Court Road and CIMR, Addenbrookes Site, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Crespi BJ, Thiselton DL. Comparative immunogenetics of autism and schizophrenia. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2011; 10:689-701. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2011.00710.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Rosenspire A, Yoo W, Menard S, Torres AR. Autism spectrum disorders are associated with an elevated autoantibody response to tissue transglutaminase-2. Autism Res 2011; 4:242-9. [PMID: 21506289 DOI: 10.1002/aur.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 03/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We report that a significant number of autistic children have serum levels of IgA antibodies above normal to the enzyme tissue transglutaminase II (TG2), and that expression of these antibodies to TG2 is linked to the (HLA)-DR3, DQ2 and DR7, DQ2 haplotypes. TG2 is expressed in the brain, where it has been shown to be important in cell adhesion and synaptic stabilization. Thus, these children appear to constitute a subpopulation of autistic children who fall within the autism disease spectrum, and for whom autoimmunity may represent a significant etiological component of their autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Rosenspire
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA.
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