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Opoku MP, Mustafa A, Anwahi N, Shah H, Aldhaheri S, Almeqbaali A, Alkateri T, Belbase S. Exploring Collaborative Efforts Toward Promoting Better Eating Habits among Autistic Children in the United Arab Emirates. LINACRE QUARTERLY 2024; 91:193-213. [PMID: 38726315 PMCID: PMC11078127 DOI: 10.1177/00243639231156701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
According to the principle of duty of care, adults in the lives of children with disabilities such as autistic children are expected to promote their development. The Nutbeam's health literacy model was adopted to explore the efforts of special education teachers and parents toward promoting better eating habits among autistic children in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Twenty-one participants, comprising fifteen special education teachers and six parents with autistic children, were examined in this study. The results indicated that some special education teachers' and parents' limited understanding of unhealthy food might impact the development of autistic children. Furthermore, the findings also highlight the lack of collaboration and communication between teachers regarding the nutrition and healthy living of autistic children. The findings have practical consequences, such as urging UAE health policymakers to provide professional development for special education instructors and parents of autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell Peprah Opoku
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashraf Mustafa
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noora Anwahi
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haseena Shah
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Aldhaheri
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aysha Almeqbaali
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Thara Alkateri
- Special Education Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Zaby, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shashidhar Belbase
- Curriculum and Method of Instruction, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Cai Y, Deng W, Yang Q, Pan G, Liang Z, Yang X, Li S, Xiao X. High-fat diet-induced obesity causes intestinal Th17/Treg imbalance that impairs the intestinal barrier and aggravates anxiety-like behavior in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 130:111783. [PMID: 38514921 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has been steadily increasing, and growing evidence suggests a link between high-fat diet (HFD), obesity, and ASD; however, the mechanism underlying this association remains elusive. Herein, BTBR T + tf/J (BTBR) inbred mice (a mouse ASD model) and C57Bl/6J (C57) mice were fed an HFD and normal diet (ND) for 8 weeks (groups: C57 + ND, C57 + HFD, BTBR + ND, and BTBR + HFD). Subsequently, mice underwent behavioral assessments, followed by intestinal tissues harvesting to detect expression of intestinal barrier proteins and inflammatory factors and immune cell numbers, and a correlation analysis. HFD-fed BTBR mice developed obesity, elevated blood sugar, significantly aggravated anxiety-like behaviors, impaired intestinal barrier function, intestinal inflammation with elevated CD4+IL17+ T (Th17) cells and reduced CD4+Foxp3+ T (Treg) cells, exhibiting reduced expression of proteins related to AMPK regulatory pathway (AMPK, p-AMPK, SIRT1). Correlation analysis revealed that the degree of behavioral anxiety, the degree of intestinal barrier damage, the severity of intestinal inflammation, and the degree of immune cell imbalance positively correlated with each other. Accordingly, HFD-induced obesity may cause intestinal Th17/Treg imbalance via the AMPK-SIRT1 pathway, leading to an inflammatory environment in the intestine, impairing intestinal barrier function, and ultimately aggravating anxiety-like behaviors in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Cai
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Wenlin Deng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Qiuping Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Guixian Pan
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Zao Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Ximei Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China
| | - Sitao Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China.
| | - Xin Xiao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510530, China.
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Hsieh CCJ, Lo YC, Wang HH, Shen HY, Chen YY, Lee YC. Amelioration of the brain structural connectivity is accompanied with changes of gut microbiota in a tuberous sclerosis complex mouse model. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:68. [PMID: 38296969 PMCID: PMC10830571 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02752-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disease that causes benign tumors and dysfunctions in many organs, including the brain. Aside from the brain malformations, many individuals with TSC exhibit neuropsychiatric symptoms. Among these symptoms, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common co-morbidities, affecting up to 60% of the population. Past neuroimaging studies strongly suggested that the impairments in brain connectivity contribute to ASD, whether or not TSC-related. Specifically, the tract-based diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) analysis provides information on the fiber integrity and has been used to study the neuropathological changes in the white matter of TSC patients with ASD symptoms. In our previous study, curcumin, a diet-derived mTOR inhibitor has been shown to effectively mitigate learning and memory deficits and anxiety-like behavior in Tsc2+/- mice via inhibiting astroglial proliferation. Recently, gut microbiota, which is greatly influenced by the diet, has been considered to play an important role in regulating several components of the central nervous system, including glial functions. In this study, we showed that the abnormal social behavior in the Tsc2+/- mice can be ameliorated by the dietary curcumin treatment. Second, using tract-based DTI analysis, we found that the Tsc2+/- mice exhibited altered fractional anisotropy, axial and radial diffusivities of axonal bundles connecting the prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, hypothalamus, and amygdala, indicating a decreased brain network. Third, the dietary curcumin treatment improved the DTI metrics, in accordance with changes in the gut microbiota composition. At the bacterial phylum level, we showed that the abundances of Actinobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, and Tenericutes were significantly correlated with the DTI metrics FA, AD, and RD, respectively. Finally, we revealed that the expression of myelin-associated proteins, myelin bassic protein (MBP) and proteolipid protein (PLP) was increased after the treatment. Overall, we showed a strong correlation between structural connectivity alterations and social behavioral deficits, as well as the diet-dependent changes in gut microbiota composition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yu-Chun Lo
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hui Wang
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ying Shen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - You-Yin Chen
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Chao Lee
- Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- International Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Önal S, Sachadyn-Król M, Kostecka M. A Review of the Nutritional Approach and the Role of Dietary Components in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Light of the Latest Scientific Research. Nutrients 2023; 15:4852. [PMID: 38068711 PMCID: PMC10708497 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects several areas of mental development. The onset of ASD occurs in the first few years of life, usually before the age of 3 years. Proper nutrition is important to ensure that an individual's nutrient and energy requirements are met, and it can also have a moderating effect on the progression of the disorder. A systematic database search was conducted as a narrative review to determine whether nutrition and specific diets can potentially alter gastrointestinal symptoms and neurobehavioral disorders. Databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Google Scholar were searched to find studies published between 2000 and September 2023 on the relationship between ASD, dietary approaches, and the role of dietary components. The review may indicate that despite extensive research into dietary interventions, there is a general lack of conclusive scientific data about the effect of therapeutic diets on ASD; therefore, no definitive recommendation can be made for any specific nutritional therapy as a standard treatment for ASD. An individualized dietary approach and the dietician's role in the therapeutic team are very important elements of every therapy. Parents and caregivers should work with nutrition specialists, such as registered dietitians or healthcare providers, to design meal plans for autistic individuals, especially those who would like to implement an elimination diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Önal
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Health Sciences Institute, Ankara University, 06110 Ankara, Turkey;
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Fırat University, 23200 Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Monika Sachadyn-Król
- Faculty of Food Science and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Małgorzata Kostecka
- Faculty of Food Science and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
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Kong XJ, Kang J, Liu K. Probiotic and intra-nasal oxytocin combination therapy on autonomic function and gut-brain axis signaling in young children and teens with autism spectrum disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 166:1-9. [PMID: 37639877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Autonomic dysfunction has been widely studied in individuals with autism spectral disorder (ASD); however, the autonomic response to probiotic and oxytocin (OT) combination intervention has not yet been explored. We conducted the present study that includes 35 individuals with ASD aged 3-20 years to explore autonomic responses to daily Lactobacillus plantarum probiotic supplementation and OT nasal spray treatment both alone and in combination. We identified significant improvements in autonomic indices from subjects receiving combination treatment relative to those receiving placebo. Parameters that were observed to improve following combination treatment are time domain metrics of heart rate variability (HRV), including the root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD), standard deviation of normal-to-normal R-R intervals (SDNN), and proportion of the number of pairs of adjacent NN intervals that differ by more than 50ms (pNN50, p < 0.05). Furthermore, individuals that received either probiotics or OT alone demonstrated fewer changes in RMSSD, pNN50, and SDNN. Several parameters that demonstrated significant improvements in combination therapy were found to be correlated with baseline levels of OT (LF power: r = -0.86, p = 0.024; mean HR: r = 0.89, p = 0.012). Additionally, Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) raw total scores (mean HR, r = 0.86, p = 0.024) and Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) raw total scores (mean HR r = 0.94, p = 0.017) were correlated with mean heart rate (HR) and HRV-derived parameters. These results provide further evidence of synergy of probiotic and OT combination and help us gain a better understanding of the role of the gut-brain axis in ASD phenotypes and pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Jun Kong
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jiayi Kang
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Kevin Liu
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
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Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Elbeltagi R, Alhawamdeh R. Role of gastrointestinal health in managing children with autism spectrum disorder. World J Clin Pediatr 2023; 12:171-196. [PMID: 37753490 PMCID: PMC10518744 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i4.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or autism are more prone to gastrointestinal (GI) disorders than the general population. These disorders can significantly affect their health, learning, and development due to various factors such as genetics, environment, and behavior. The causes of GI disorders in children with ASD can include gut dysbiosis, immune dysfunction, food sensitivities, digestive enzyme deficiencies, and sensory processing differences. Many studies suggest that numerous children with ASD experience GI problems, and effective management is crucial. Diagnosing autism is typically done through genetic, neurological, functional, and behavioral assessments and observations, while GI tests are not consistently reliable. Some GI tests may increase the risk of developing ASD or exacerbating symptoms. Addressing GI issues in individuals with ASD can improve their overall well-being, leading to better behavior, cognitive function, and educational abilities. Proper management can improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and appetite by relieving physical discomfort and pain. Alleviating GI symptoms can improve sleep patterns, increase energy levels, and contribute to a general sense of well-being, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for the individual and improved family dynamics. The primary goal of GI interventions is to improve nutritional status, reduce symptom severity, promote a balanced mood, and increase patient independence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Algharbia, Tanta 31511, Egypt
- Pediatrics, Univeristy Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Manama, Manama 12, Bahrain
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Irish Royal College of Surgeon, Bahrain, Muharraq, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Pulmonology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Algharbia, Tanta 31527, Egypt
- Pulmonology Department, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Reem Elbeltagi
- Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Bahrain, Muharraq, Busiateen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Rawan Alhawamdeh
- Pediatrics Research, and Development Department, Genomics Creativity and Play Center, Manama, Manama 0000, Bahrain
- Pediatrics Research, and Development Department, SENSORYME Dubai 999041, United Arab Emirates
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De Sales-Millán A, Aguirre-Garrido JF, González-Cervantes RM, Velázquez-Aragón JA. Microbiome-Gut-Mucosal-Immune-Brain Axis and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Novel Proposal of the Role of the Gut Microbiome in ASD Aetiology. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:548. [PMID: 37503995 PMCID: PMC10376175 DOI: 10.3390/bs13070548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by deficits in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and stereotyped interests. Due of the high prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders in individuals with ASD, researchers have investigated the gut microbiota as a potential contributor to its aetiology. The relationship between the microbiome, gut, and brain (microbiome-gut-brain axis) has been acknowledged as a key factor in modulating brain function and social behaviour, but its connection to the aetiology of ASD is not well understood. Recently, there has been increasing attention on the relationship between the immune system, gastrointestinal disorders and neurological issues in ASD, particularly in relation to the loss of specific species or a decrease in microbial diversity. It focuses on how gut microbiota dysbiosis can affect gut permeability, immune function and microbiota metabolites in ASD. However, a very complete study suggests that dysbiosis is a consequence of the disease and that it has practically no effect on autistic manifestations. This is a review of the relationship between the immune system, microbial diversity and the microbiome-gut-brain axis in the development of autistic symptoms severity and a proposal of a novel role of gut microbiome in ASD, where dysbiosis is a consequence of ASD-related behaviour and where dysbiosis in turn accentuates the autistic manifestations of the patients via the microbiome-gut-brain axis in a feedback circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amapola De Sales-Millán
- División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
| | - José Félix Aguirre-Garrido
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Rina María González-Cervantes
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Lerma, Lerma 52006, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
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Yano N, Hosokawa K. The importance of comprehensive support based on the three pillars of exercise, nutrition, and sleep for improving core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1119142. [PMID: 37260760 PMCID: PMC10228143 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1119142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-V, which first described ASD, lists persistent deficits in social communication and interrelationships, as well as limited and recurrent modes of behavior, interests, and activities as diagnostic items. Until recently, understanding the pathophysiology of ASD has been mostly from a neurophysiological perspective, and interventions have been mostly behavioral and psychological. In recent years, however, it has become clear that ASD also affects many bodily systems, including the immune system, the sensorimotor system, and the gut-brain axis, and that these factors simultaneously influence it. In light of this background, a new "connectivome theory" has been proposed as a hypothesis for understanding ASD. "Exercise," "nutrition," and "sleep," which are discussed in this mini-review, have a particularly strong relationship with the immune, musculoskeletal, and gut systems among the pathologies mentioned in the "connectivome theory," furthermore, many reports suggest improvements in stereo-responsive behavior and social and communication skills, which are the core symptoms of ASD. In addition, these interventions are characterized by being less subject to location and cost limitations and excel in the continuity of therapeutic intervention, and the three interventions may have a reciprocal positive impact and may function as three pillars to support ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomu Yano
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Doctoral Course, Kagoshima University Graduate School, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Kenji Hosokawa
- Department of Child Care and Education, Odawara Junior College, Nagoya, Japan
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Dargenio VN, Dargenio C, Castellaneta S, De Giacomo A, Laguardia M, Schettini F, Francavilla R, Cristofori F. Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction and Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis: Possible Implications in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071620. [PMID: 37049461 PMCID: PMC10096948 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with multifactorial etiology, characterized by impairment in two main functional areas: (1) communication and social interactions, and (2) skills, interests and activities. ASD patients often suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms associated with dysbiotic states and a “leaky gut.” A key role in the pathogenesis of ASD has been attributed to the gut microbiota, as it influences central nervous system development and neuropsychological and gastrointestinal homeostasis through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. A state of dysbiosis with a reduction in the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio and Bacteroidetes level and other imbalances is common in ASD. In recent decades, many authors have tried to study and identify the microbial signature of ASD through in vivo and ex vivo studies. In this regard, the advent of metabolomics has also been of great help. Based on these data, several therapeutic strategies, primarily the use of probiotics, are investigated to improve the symptoms of ASD through the modulation of the microbiota. However, although the results are promising, the heterogeneity of the studies precludes concrete evidence. The aim of this review is to explore the role of intestinal barrier dysfunction, the gut–brain axis and microbiota alterations in ASD and the possible role of probiotic supplementation in these patients.
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Alshehri S, Nadeem A, Ahmad SF, Alqarni SS, Al-Harbi NO, Al-Ayadhi LY, Attia SM, Alqarni SA, Bakheet SA. Disequilibrium in the Thioredoxin Reductase-1/Thioredoxin-1 Redox Couple Is Associated with Increased T-Cell Apoptosis in Children with Autism. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13020286. [PMID: 36837907 PMCID: PMC9964134 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13020286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neuropsychiatric childhood disorder that affects social skill and language development, and is characterized by persistent stereotypic behaviors, restricted social interests, and impaired language/social skills. ASD subjects have dysregulated immune responses due to impairment in inflammatory and antioxidant signaling in immune cells, such as T cells. Thioredoxin reductase-1 (TrxR1) and thioredoxin-1 (Trx1) play a crucial role in the maintenance of redox equilibrium in several immune cells, including T cells. T-cell apoptosis plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases. However, it remains to be explored how the TrxR1/Trx1 redox couple affects T-cells apoptosis in ASD and typically developing control (TDC) groups. Therefore, this single-center cross-sectional study explored the expression/activity of TrxR1/Trx1, and Bcl2, 7-AAD/annexin V immunostaining in T cells of ASD (n = 25) and TDC (n = 22) groups. Further, effects of the LPS were determined on apoptosis in TDC and ASD T cells. Our data show that T cells have increased TrxR1 expression, while having decreased Trx1 expression in the ASD group. Further, TrxR enzymatic activity was also elevated in T cells of the ASD group. Furthermore, T cells of the ASD group had a decreased Bcl2 expression and an increased % of annexin V immunostaining. Treatment of T cells with LPS caused greater apoptosis in the ASD group than the TDC group, with same treatment. These data reveal that the redox couple TrxR1/Trx1 is dysregulated in T cells of ASD subjects, which is associated with decreased Bcl2 expression and increased apoptosis. This may lead to decreased survival of T cells in ASD subjects during chronic inflammation. Future studies should investigate environmental factors, such as gut dysbiosis and pollutants, that may cause abnormal immune responses in the T cells of ASD subjects due to chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samiyah Alshehri
- 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
- Correspondence:
| | - Sheikh F. Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sana S. Alqarni
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif O. Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Y. Al-Ayadhi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, 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. Alqarni
- 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
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Senchukova MA. Microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract: Friend or foe? World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:19-42. [PMID: 36683718 PMCID: PMC9850957 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i1.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota is currently considered an external organ of the human body that provides important mechanisms of metabolic regulation and protection. The gut microbiota encodes over 3 million genes, which is approximately 150 times more than the total number of genes present in the human genome. Changes in the qualitative and quantitative composition of the microbiome lead to disruption in the synthesis of key bacterial metabolites, changes in intestinal barrier function, and inflammation and can cause the development of a wide variety of diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular issues, neurological disorders and oncological concerns. In this review, I consider issues related to the role of the microbiome in the regulation of intestinal barrier function, its influence on physiological and pathological processes occurring in the body, and potential new therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring the gut microbiome. Herewith, it is important to understand that the gut microbiota and human body should be considered as a single biological system, where change of one element will inevitably affect its other components. Thus, the study of the impact of the intestinal microbiota on health should be considered only taking into account numerous factors, the role of which has not yet been fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina A Senchukova
- Department of Oncology, Orenburg State Medical University, Orenburg 460000, Russia
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Chen P, Zhang L, Feng Y, Liu YF, Si TL, Su Z, Cheung T, Ungvari GS, Ng CH, Xiang YT. Brain-gut axis and psychiatric disorders: A perspective from bibliometric and visual analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1047007. [PMID: 36466907 PMCID: PMC9709456 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1047007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Brain-Gut Axis, a bidirectional signaling pathway that connects the intestinal and central nervous systems, plays an important role in the development of psychiatric disorders. However, the overall research trends in this field are unclear. This study explored the patterns of research on the brain-gut axis and psychiatric disorders from a bibliometric perspective. METHODS Relevant data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, with search terms on psychiatric disorders and the brain-gut axis. R (version 4.2.0), VOSviewer (version 1.6.17), CiteSpace software, and the online bibliometric platform were used in the data analysis. RESULTS A total of 2,298 articles published between 1993 and 2022 were identified, showing an increasing trend over time. China (1,859; 20.70%) was the country that contributed the most publications. The journal Nutrients (95; 4.13%) published the most publications. Cryan JF (153; H-index=73) and University College Cork (559; 22.54%) were the most influential author and the most productive institution, respectively. The high-frequency keywords were clustered into six themes, including neurodegenerative diseases, stress-related diseases, immune, brain behavior, depression, and probiotic-related topics; of which, depression (880; 2019), anxiety (207; 2018) and autism (191; 2019) were the most studied psychiatric disorders in the past 5 years. "Depressive symptom" (2019-2020) and "probiotic treatment" (2019-2020) were the main areas addressed in recent years. CONCLUSION Research on the brain-gut axis and psychiatric disorders has attracted increasing attention in the past decade, with most publications originating from high-income level countries. This study provides a useful perspective on understanding the research trends, key hot topics, and research gaps in this expanding field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Chen
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macau SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Feng
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Fei Liu
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macau SAR, China
| | - Tong Leong Si
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macau SAR, China
| | - Zhaohui Su
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Center on Smart and Connected Health Technologies, Mays Cancer Center, School of Nursing, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Teris Cheung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gabor S. Ungvari
- University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia / Graylands Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Chee H. Ng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic and St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Richmond, VIC, Australia
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macau SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macau SAR, China
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Taniya MA, Chung HJ, Al Mamun A, Alam S, Aziz MA, Emon NU, Islam MM, Hong STS, Podder BR, Ara Mimi A, Aktar Suchi S, Xiao J. Role of Gut Microbiome in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Its Therapeutic Regulation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:915701. [PMID: 35937689 PMCID: PMC9355470 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.915701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that affects normal brain development. The recent finding of the microbiota–gut–brain axis indicates the bidirectional connection between our gut and brain, demonstrating that gut microbiota can influence many neurological disorders such as autism. Most autistic patients suffer from gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Many studies have shown that early colonization, mode of delivery, and antibiotic usage significantly affect the gut microbiome and the onset of autism. Microbial fermentation of plant-based fiber can produce different types of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) that may have a beneficial or detrimental effect on the gut and neurological development of autistic patients. Several comprehensive studies of the gut microbiome and microbiota–gut–brain axis help to understand the mechanism that leads to the onset of neurological disorders and find possible treatments for autism. This review integrates the findings of recent years on the gut microbiota and ASD association, mainly focusing on the characterization of specific microbiota that leads to ASD and addressing potential therapeutic interventions to restore a healthy balance of gut microbiome composition that can treat autism-associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masuma Afrin Taniya
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Environment and Life Science, Independent University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Hea-Jong Chung
- Gwanju Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Gwanju, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Hea-Jong Chung, ; Jian Xiao,
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Safaet Alam
- Drugs and Toxins Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories, Rajshahi, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Abdul Aziz
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, State University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nazim Uddin Emon
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Minarul Islam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Seong-T shool Hong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Bristy Rani Podder
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Anjuman Ara Mimi
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Suzia Aktar Suchi
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Jian Xiao
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Center, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Hea-Jong Chung, ; Jian Xiao,
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Mehta R, Kuhad A, Bhandari R. Nitric oxide pathway as a plausible therapeutic target in autism spectrum disorders. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:659-679. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2100252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rishab Mehta
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
| | - Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
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Sachdeva P, Mehdi I, Kaith R, Ahmad F, Anwar MS. Potential natural products for the management of autism spectrum disorder. IBRAIN 2022; 8:365-376. [PMID: 37786737 PMCID: PMC10528773 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism in a broader sense is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which frequently occurs during early childhood and can last for a lifetime. This condition is primarily defined by difficulties with social engagement, with individuals displaying repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Numerous neuroanatomical investigations on autistic children have revealed that their brains grow atypically, resulting in atypical neurogenesis, neuronal migration, maturation, differentiation, and degeneration. Special education programs, speech therapy, and occupational therapy have all been used to address autism-related behavioral problems. While widely prescribed antidepressant drugs, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and stimulants have demonstrated response in autistic individuals. However, these medications do not fully reverse the core symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The adverse reactions of ASD medicines and an increased risk of developing various other problems, such as obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and thyroid disorders, prompted the researchers to investigate herbal medicines for the treatment of autistic individuals. Clinical trials are now being done to establish the efficacy of alternative techniques based on natural substances and to understand better the context in which they may be used to treat autism. This review of literature will look at crucial natural compounds derived from animals and plants that have shown promise as safe and effective autism treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punya Sachdeva
- Amity Institute of Neuropsychology and NeurosciencesAmity UniversityNoidaUttar PradeshIndia
| | - Intizaar Mehdi
- School of Studies in NeuroscienceJiwaji UniversityGwaliorMadhya PradeshIndia
| | - Rohit Kaith
- School of Studies in NeuroscienceJiwaji UniversityGwaliorMadhya PradeshIndia
| | - Faizan Ahmad
- Department of Medical Elementology and ToxicologyJamia Hamdard UniversityDelhiIndia
| | - Md Sheeraz Anwar
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CampaniaLuigi VanvitelliCasertaItaly
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Mathew MT, Antoniou A, Ramesh N, Hu M, Gaither J, Mouhlas D, Hashimoto S, Humphrey M, Matthews T, Hunter JM, Reshmi S, Schultz M, Lee K, Pfau R, Cottrell C, McBride KL, Navin NE, Chaudhari BP, Leung ML. A Decade's Experience in Pediatric Chromosomal Microarray Reveals Distinct Characteristics Across Ordering Specialties. J Mol Diagn 2022; 24:1031-1040. [PMID: 35718094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromosomal microarray (CMA) is a testing modality frequently used in pediatric patients; however, previously published data on its utilization are limited to the genetic setting. Herein, we performed a database search for all CMA testing performed from 2010 to 2020, and delineated the diagnostic yield based on patient characteristics, including sex, age, clinical specialty of providers, indication of testing, and pathogenic finding. The indications for testing were further categorized into Human Phenotype Ontology categories for analysis. This study included a cohort of 14,541 patients from 29 different medical specialties, of whom 30% were from the genetics clinic. The clinical indications for testing suggested that neonatology patients demonstrated the greatest involvement of multiorgan systems, involving the most Human Phenotype Ontology categories, compared with developmental behavioral pediatrics and neurology patients being the least. The top pathogenic findings for each specialty differed, likely due to the varying clinical features and indications for testing. Deletions involving the 22q11.21 locus were the top pathogenic findings for patients presenting to genetics, neonatology, cardiology, and surgery. Our data represent the largest pediatric cohort published to date. This study is the first to demonstrate the diagnostic utility of this assay for patients seen in the setting of different specialties, and it provides normative data of CMA results among a general pediatric population referred for testing because of variable clinical presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam T Mathew
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Austin Antoniou
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Naveen Ramesh
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey Gaither
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Danielle Mouhlas
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sayaka Hashimoto
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Maggie Humphrey
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Theodora Matthews
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jesse M Hunter
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Shalini Reshmi
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Matthew Schultz
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kristy Lee
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ruthann Pfau
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Catherine Cottrell
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Kim L McBride
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Center for Cardiovascular Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Nicholas E Navin
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas; Department of Bioinformatics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Bimal P Chaudhari
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Division of Neonatology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Marco L Leung
- The Steve and Cindy Rasmussen Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio.
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17
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Multivariate Analysis of Metabolomic and Nutritional Profiles among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060923. [PMID: 35743708 PMCID: PMC9224818 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been promising results regarding the capability of statistical and machine-learning techniques to offer insight into unique metabolomic patterns observed in ASD. This work re-examines a comparative study contrasting metabolomic and nutrient measurements of children with ASD (n = 55) against their typically developing (TD) peers (n = 44) through a multivariate statistical lens. Hypothesis testing, receiver characteristic curve assessment, and correlation analysis were consistent with prior work and served to underscore prominent areas where metabolomic and nutritional profiles between the groups diverged. Improved univariate analysis revealed 46 nutritional/metabolic differences that were significantly different between ASD and TD groups, with individual areas under the receiver operator curve (AUROC) scores of 0.6–0.9. Many of the significant measurements had correlations with many others, forming two integrated networks of interrelated metabolic differences in ASD. The TD group had 189 significant correlation pairs between metabolites, vs. only 106 for the ASD group, calling attention to underlying differences in metabolic processes. Furthermore, multivariate techniques identified potential biomarker panels with up to six metabolites that were able to attain a predictive accuracy of up to 98% for discriminating between ASD and TD, following cross-validation. Assessing all optimized multivariate models demonstrated concordance with prior physiological pathways identified in the literature, with some of the most important metabolites for discriminating ASD and TD being sulfate, the transsulfuration pathway, uridine (methylation biomarker), and beta-amino isobutyrate (regulator of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism).
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18
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Inczefi O, Bacsur P, Resál T, Keresztes C, Molnár T. The Influence of Nutrition on Intestinal Permeability and the Microbiome in Health and Disease. Front Nutr 2022; 9:718710. [PMID: 35548572 PMCID: PMC9082752 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.718710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The leakage of the intestinal barrier and the disruption of the gut microbiome are increasingly recognized as key factors in different pathophysiological conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic liver diseases, obesity, diabetes mellitus, types of cancer, and neuropsychiatric disorders. In this study, the mechanisms leading to dysbiosis and "leaky gut" are reviewed, and a short summary of the current knowledge regarding different diseases is provided. The simplest way to restore intestinal permeability and the microbiota could be ideal nutrition. Further therapeutic options are also available, such as the administration of probiotics or postbiotics or fecal microbiota transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orsolya Inczefi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Bacsur
- Department of Gastroenterology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Resál
- Department of Gastroenterology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csilla Keresztes
- Department for Medical Communication and Translation Studies, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Molnár
- Department of Gastroenterology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary,*Correspondence: Tamás Molnár,
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19
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Song W, Zhang M, Teng L, Wang Y, Zhu L. Prebiotics and probiotics for autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials. J Med Microbiol 2022; 71. [PMID: 35438624 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. The discovery of the influence of gut microbiota on mental illness opens up new research avenues for the role of gut microbiota modifiers, such as probiotics or prebiotics, as a potential course of treatment. Potential treatments have received considerable attention in recent years.Aim. The meta-analysis only included clinical controlled trials to explore whether probiotics and prebiotics can improve the overall severity of ASD symptoms in children, the severity of gastrointestinal (GI) problems and the comorbid psychopathlology in ASD.Gap statement. Although systematic reviews have been conducted in this area in the past, most of them are mixed experimental designs, and the reliability of the conclusions remains to be determined. To the best of our knowledge, no systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has been conducted.Methodology. A meta analysis used a combination of subject terms and free words, or used keywords, titles, and abstracts to conduct in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library to identify studies relevant to the current review.Result. The results of the meta-analysis showed that probiotics and prebiotics did not significantly improve the severity of ASD patients, GI problems and comorbid psychopathlology in ASD, and the result is contradictory to the previous literatures.Conclusion. Since there are relatively few clinical controlled trials that can be included, the results of this study still need to be further verified in the clinic. In the future, more randomized controlled studies, more research populations, and the use of more professional clinicians may provide more robust research results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Song
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, PR China
| | - Mei Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, PR China
| | - Lili Teng
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, PR China
| | - Yu Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, PR China
| | - Luwen Zhu
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, PR China
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CRISPR-Cas Systems in Gut Microbiome of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12030367. [PMID: 35330117 PMCID: PMC8955288 DOI: 10.3390/life12030367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The human gut microbiome is associated with various diseases, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Variations of the taxonomical composition in the gut microbiome of children with ASD have been observed repeatedly. However, features and parameters of the microbiome CRISPR-Cas systems in ASD have not been investigated yet. Here, we demonstrate such an analysis in order to describe the overall changes in the microbiome CRISPR-Cas systems during ASD as well as to reveal their potential to be used in diagnostics and therapy. For the systems identification, we used a combination of the publicly available tools suited for completed genomes with subsequent filtrations. In the considered data, the microbiomes of children with ASD contained fewer arrays per Gb of assembly than the control group, but the arrays included more spacers on average. CRISPR arrays from the microbiomes of children with ASD differed from the control group neither in the fractions of spacers with protospacers from known genomes, nor in the sets of known bacteriophages providing protospacers. Almost all bacterial protospacers of the gut microbiome systems for both children with ASD and the healthy ones were located in prophage islands, leaving no room for the systems to participate in the interspecies competition.
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21
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Carneiro L, Pellerin L. Nutritional Impact on Metabolic Homeostasis and Brain Health. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:767405. [PMID: 35153657 PMCID: PMC8829049 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.767405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging in modern societies is often associated with various diseases including metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. In recent years, researchers have shown that both dysfunctions are related to each other. Although the relationship is not fully understood, recent evidence indicate that metabolic control plays a determinant role in neural defects onset. Indeed, energy balance dysregulation affects neuroenergetics by altering energy supply and thus neuronal activity. Consistently, different diets to help control body weight, blood glucose or insulin sensitivity are also effective in improving neurodegenerative disorders, dampening symptoms, or decreasing the risk of disease onset. Moreover, adapted nutritional recommendations improve learning, memory, and mood in healthy subjects as well. Interestingly, adjusted carbohydrate content of meals is the most efficient for both brain function and metabolic regulation improvement. Notably, documented neurological disorders impacted by specific diets suggest that the processes involved are inflammation, mitochondrial function and redox balance as well as ATP production. Interestingly, processes involving inflammation, mitochondrial function and redox balance as well as ATP production are also described in brain regulation of energy homeostasis. Therefore, it is likely that changes in brain function induced by diets can affect brain control of energy homeostasis and other brain functions such as memory, anxiety, social behavior, or motor skills. Moreover, a defect in energy supply could participate to the development of neurodegenerative disorders. Among the possible processes involved, the role of ketone bodies metabolism, neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, oxidative stress and inflammation or epigenetic regulations as well as gut-brain axis and SCFA have been proposed in the literature. Therefore, the goal of this review is to provide hints about how nutritional studies could help to better understand the tight relationship between metabolic balance, brain activity and aging. Altogether, diets that help maintaining a metabolic balance could be key to both maintain energy homeostasis and prevent neurological disorders, thus contributing to promote healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Carneiro
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Lionel Carneiro,
| | - Luc Pellerin
- Inserm U1082, Université de Poitiers and CHU de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
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22
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Alharthi A, Alhazmi S, Alburae N, Bahieldin A. The Human Gut Microbiome as a Potential Factor in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031363. [PMID: 35163286 PMCID: PMC8835713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The high prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders among autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients has prompted scientists to look into the gut microbiota as a putative trigger in ASD pathogenesis. Thus, many studies have linked the gut microbial dysbiosis that is frequently observed in ASD patients with the modulation of brain function and social behavior, but little is known about this connection and its contribution to the etiology of ASD. This present review highlights the potential role of the microbiota–gut–brain axis in autism. In particular, it focuses on how gut microbiota dysbiosis may impact gut permeability, immune function, and the microbial metabolites in autistic people. We further discuss recent findings supporting the possible role of the gut microbiome in initiating epigenetic modifications and consider the potential role of this pathway in influencing the severity of ASD. Lastly, we summarize recent updates in microbiota-targeted therapies such as probiotics, prebiotics, dietary supplements, fecal microbiota transplantation, and microbiota transfer therapy. The findings of this paper reveal new insights into possible therapeutic interventions that may be used to reduce and cure ASD-related symptoms. However, well-designed research studies using large sample sizes are still required in this area of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Alharthi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Majmaah University, Al Zulfi 11932, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Safiah Alhazmi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Najla Alburae
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
| | - Ahmed Bahieldin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (N.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (A.B.)
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Mehta R, Bhandari R, Kuhad A. Effects of catechin on a rodent model of autism spectrum disorder: implications for the role of nitric oxide in neuroinflammatory pathway. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:3249-3271. [PMID: 34448020 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05941-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM The present research work aims at deciphering the involvement of nitric oxide pathway and its modulation by ( ±)catechin hydrate in experimental paradigm of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). METHOD An intracerebroventricular infusion of 4 μl of 1 M propanoic acid was given in the anterior region of the lateral ventricle to induce autism-like phenotype in male rats. Oral administration of ( ±)catechin hydrate (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) was initiated from the 3rd day lasting till the 28th day. L-NAME (50 mg/kg) and L-arginine (800 mg/kg) were also given individually as well as in combination to explore the ability of ( ±)catechin hydrate to act via nitric oxide pathway. Behavior test for sociability, stereotypy, anxiety, depression, and novelty, repetitive, and perseverative behavior was carried out between the 14th and 28th day. On the 29th day, animals were sacrificed, and levels of mitochondrial complexes and oxidative stress parameters were evaluated. We also estimated the levels of neuroinflammatory and apoptotic markers such as TNF-α, IL-6, NF-κB, IFN-γ, HSP-70, and caspase-3. To evaluate the involvement of nitric oxide pathway, the levels of iNOS and homocysteine were estimated. RESULTS Treatment with ( ±)catechin hydrate significantly ameliorated behavioral, biochemical, neurological, and molecular deficits. Hence, ( ±)catechin hydrate has potential to be used as neurotherapeutic agent in ASD targeting nitric oxide pathway-mediated oxidative and nitrosative stress responsible for behavioral, biochemical, and molecular alterations via modulating nitric oxide pathway. CONCLUSION The evaluation of the levels of iNOS and homocysteine conclusively establishes the role of nitric oxide pathway in causing behavioral, biochemical, and molecular deficits and the beneficial effect of ( ±)catechin hydrate in restoring these alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishab Mehta
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160 014, India
| | - Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160 014, India.
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160 014, India.
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Eating Behaviors of Children with Autism-Pilot Study, Part II. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113850. [PMID: 34836104 PMCID: PMC8620859 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by social communication deficit and non-normative behavior. The people with autism often experience troubles with feeding. The purpose of this study was to conduct evaluation of the feeding and eating behaviors among children with autism. Patients and Methods: The study group included 41 high-functioning autistic children. The control group consisted of 34 children without the ASD. The questionnaire was used to assess the nutritional status. Results: The children with ASD fuss during mealtimes more frequently, they require entertaining and diverting their attention, they are fed by parents, and they consume their meals away from the table. The significant difference found in the use of utensils and food selectivity works to the disadvantage of the Study Group. Conclusions: The food selectivity occurs significantly more frequently among children with ASD. The feeding and eating problems should be considered on a wider scale. The cooperation of the multidisciplinary and the parents teams should be proposed in the ASD patients care.
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Oliveira BMFD, Frutuoso MFP. [Far beyond nutrients: experiences and connections with autistic children based on cooking and sharing meals]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2021; 37:e00132020. [PMID: 33950088 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00132020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined ways to expand the analysis of diet in autistic children, widely considered inadequate according to food selectivity and/or difficulty interacting at mealtimes, attributed to alterations in sensorial processing and social, communicative, and cognitive difficulties. From an ethnographic perspective, a participant observational study was performed with field diary records and cooking workshops with autistic children and adolescents, aimed at analyzing the relations established by the children with the food and utensils, physical space, and between each other and the adults. The records were analyzed based on Bondía's notion of experience and Actor-Network Theory. The resulting data showed singularities in performing cooking tasks and accepting recipes. Some children did not eat the foods, but smelled, licked, and handled the ingredients in moments of experimentation through mediation by the educators, facilitating connection by the children with food and eating. The interactions established with foods and utensils highlight the importance of food and eating as mediators of the connection between autistic children and their peers, with adults, and with the world. This experience broke with the homogenizing value assigned to autistic children's difficulties with interaction and reinforced commensality as a tool for building networks of care. To conceive eating for these children from an expanded perspective means to value subjectivity, the relationship to food, and interaction with others at mealtimes, far beyond the biological understanding of the nutrients.
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Kong X, Liu J, Liu K, Koh M, Tian R, Hobbie C, Fong M, Chen Q, Zhao M, Budjan C, Kong J. Altered Autonomic Functions and Gut Microbiome in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Implications for Assisting ASD Screening and Diagnosis. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:144-157. [PMID: 32410097 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04524-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental disorder, and a growing body of literature suggests the presence of autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction in individuals with ASD. ANS is part of the "gut brain axis", which consists of an intricate interplay between the gut microbiome, mucosal immune system, enteric nervous system, ANS, and central processes receiving input from the vagus nerve. Measurements of the gut microbiome and the autonomic indices can serve as non-invasive markers of the status of the gut-brain axis in ASD. To our knowledge, no previous studies have explored the relationship between ANS and gut microbiome in individuals with ASD. Furthermore, while previous studies investigated the use of autonomic indices and gut microbiome independently as markers of ASD-related comorbidities, such as anxiety, cardiovascular issues, and gastrointestinal dysfunction, the use of combined autonomic indices and gut microbiome factors to classify ASD and control subjects has not been explored. In this study, we characterized autonomic function of a group of individuals with ASD in comparison to their paired, first-degree relative controls. Second, we explored the ASD gut-brain-axis through the relationship between gut microbiome markers and autonomic indices, as well as the correlation between the gut-brain-axis and clinical presentation of ASD. Lastly, this study explores the predictive capability of gut-brain-axis biomarkers (including autonomic and microbiome indices) in subtyping ASD cases, serving as a starting point to investigate the possibility of assisting in ASD screening and diagnosis that still heavily relies on psychological testing, which may be based on highly subjective standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejun Kong
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Jun Liu
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA.,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Kevin Liu
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Madelyn Koh
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Ruiyi Tian
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Clara Hobbie
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Michelle Fong
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Qiuyi Chen
- Bentley University, 175 Forest St, Waltham, MA, 02452, USA
| | - Minxuan Zhao
- Bentley University, 175 Forest St, Waltham, MA, 02452, USA
| | - Christoph Budjan
- Dana Faber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Jian Kong
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street Charlestown, Boston, MA, 02129, USA.,Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Abstract
Background Despite the global increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), relevant research studies are lacking in Brunei Darussalam. Various studies have shown a significant association between a lowered 2D:4D ratio (ratio of second digit/index finger to the fourth digit/ring finger) and ASD, making it one of the potential phenotypic biomarkers for early detection of autism, which is important for early intervention and management. Objective The objective of this study is to explore the association between 2D:4D ratio and ASD in Brunei Darussalam, as a potential tool to complement early ASD diagnosis. Methods We conducted a case–control study comprising 28 ASD and 62 typically developing (TD) children in the case and control group, respectively (age range: 3–11 years old; median age: 6 years old). Median 2D:4D ratios were measured, compared and analysed between the two groups. Logistic regression models were used to explore potential associations between the median 2D:4D ratio and ASD in respective gender, for both left and right hands, independently. Results Our study shows that the median 2D:4D ratio of left hand in ASD males is significantly lower than those in TD males, after adjusting for ethnicity and age [Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.57 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.31–0.96); p = 0.044]. For females, there is no association of ASD with the median left hand 2D:4D ratio [OR = 3.09 (95% CI: 0.98–19.86); p = 0.144] or the median right hand 2D:4D ratio [OR = 1.23 (95% CI: 0.42–3.88); p = 0.702]. Our study also shows a significant positive correlation and/or a reduced asymmetry between the average 2D:4D ratio of left hands and right hands in ASD males (Pearson’s correlation (r) = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.076–0.75, p = 0.023). Conclusions There is significant association between a lowered median 2D:4D ratio of the left hand (in males only) and ASD diagnosis. Once validated in a larger sample size, a lowered median 2D:4D ratio on the left hand may be a potential tool to complement ASD diagnosis for males in our study population. There is no association between the median 2D:4D ratio (left or right hands) and ASD in females, which could be due to the small female sample size and/or the possibility of different aetiology for ASD in females. Reduced asymmetry between the average 2D:4D ratio of left and right hands observed in ASD males only (not in ASD females) also suggests the importance of considering gender-specific biomarkers for ASD diagnosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10803-021-04899-9.
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Associations of Metabolic Genes ( GSTT1, GSTP1, GSTM1) and Blood Mercury Concentrations Differ in Jamaican Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041377. [PMID: 33546147 PMCID: PMC7913200 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We investigated interactive roles of three metabolic glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes (GSTP1, GSTT1, and GSTM1) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) status in relation to blood Hg concentrations (BHC) of Jamaican children. We used data from 266 children (2-8 years) with ASD and their 1:1 age- and sex-matched typically developing (TD) controls. After adjusting General Linear Models for child’s age, socioeconomic status, consumption of leafy vegetables, fried plantain, canned fish, and the interaction between GSTP1 and GSTT1, we found significant interactions between GSTP1 and ASD status in relation to BHC either in a co-dominant or dominant genetic model for GSTP1(P < 0.001, P = 0.007, respectively). In the co-dominant model for the Ile105Val GSTP1 polymorphism, geometric mean (GM) BHC in ASD cases with genotype Ile/Ile were significantly higher than in cases with the Ile/Val genotype (0.73 vs. 0.48 µg/L, P = 0.01). In contrast, in TD controls with the Ile/Val genotype GM BHC were significantly higher than in those with the Ile/Ile genotype (0.72 vs. 0.49 µg/L, P = 0.03) or the Val/Val genotype (0.72 vs. 0.51 µg/L, P = 0.04). Although our findings are consistent with the role of GSTP1 in detoxification of Hg, replication in other populations is warranted.
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Mens Sana in Corpore Sano: Does the Glycemic Index Have a Role to Play? Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12102989. [PMID: 33003562 PMCID: PMC7599769 DOI: 10.3390/nu12102989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although diet interventions are mostly related to metabolic disorders, nowadays they are used in a wide variety of pathologies. From diabetes and obesity to cardiovascular diseases, to cancer or neurological disorders and stroke, nutritional recommendations are applied to almost all diseases. Among such disorders, metabolic disturbances and brain function and/or diseases have recently been shown to be linked. Indeed, numerous neurological functions are often associated with perturbations of whole-body energy homeostasis. In this regard, specific diets are used in various neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, stroke, or seizure recovery. In addition, Alzheimer’s disease and Autism Spectrum Disorders are also considered to be putatively improved by diet interventions. Glycemic index diets are a novel developed indicator expected to anticipate the changes in blood glucose induced by specific foods and how they can affect various physiological functions. Several results have provided indications of the efficiency of low-glycemic index diets in weight management and insulin sensitivity, but also cognitive function, epilepsy treatment, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, studies involving the glycemic index can provide new insights into the relationship between energy homeostasis regulation and brain function or related disorders. Therefore, in this review, we will summarize the main evidence on glycemic index involvement in brain mechanisms of energy homeostasis regulation.
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30
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Gupta UC, Gupta SC. Optimizing Modifiable and Lifestyle-related Factors in the Prevention of Dementia Disorders with Special Reference to Alzheimer, Parkinson and Autism Diseases. CURRENT NUTRITION & FOOD SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1573401315666190801120306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Dementia is a syndrome and an umbrella term that encompasses Alzheimer, Parkinson and
autism diseases. These diseases are by far the most common cause of dementia; therefore this investigation
will chiefly include these disorders, with a limited discussion of few other disorders related
to dementia. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of cerebral β-amyloid
plaques, tau proteins and memory loss; Parkinson by the deterioration of brain cells which regulate
the movement of body parts and produce dopamine; and autism by abnormalities of social disorder
and difficulty in communicating and forming relationships. Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive impairment
in dementia are age-related and manageable only with early diagnosis and prevention. Data
based on several decades of research has shown that the major factors responsible for the induction
of inflammation in dementia and many chronic diseases are infections, obesity, alcohol, radiation,
environmental pollutants, improper nutrition, lack of physical activity, depression, anxiety, genetic
factors, and sleep deprivation. There are some studied preventive measures for dementia including
continued physical activity and consuming predominantly a plant-based Mediterranean diet comprising
olive oil and foods containing flavonoids and other phytochemicals having strong antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory properties and along with management of chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umesh C. Gupta
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Charlottetown Research and Development Centre, 440 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
| | - Subhas C. Gupta
- The Department of Plastic Surgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92354, United States
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31
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Kandeel WA, Meguid NA, Bjørklund G, Eid EM, Farid M, Mohamed SK, Wakeel KE, Chirumbolo S, Elsaeid A, Hammad DY. Impact of Clostridium Bacteria in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Anthropometric Measurements. J Mol Neurosci 2020; 70:897-907. [PMID: 32130666 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01482-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Current research has shown that gut microbiota may play a fundamental role in neurological activity, behavior, mood, cognition, and possibly for the onset as well as the severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous studies emphasized the possible correlation between Clostridium spp., gut colonization, and possible development or exacerbating of ASD in affected children. The aim of the present study was to investigate how Clostridia gut colonization can have an impact on the neurological outcome and anthropometric values in ASD children. The present study included 60 children (30 ASD and 30 neurotypical controls) of both sexes aged from 2 to 8 years. Children with ASD were diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), as well as the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) was used to determine Clostridium presence in the stools of the enrolled subjects. The number of Clostridium spp. (Clostridium paraputri, Clostridium bolteae, and Clostridium perfringens) found in the stools of ASD children was greater than neurotypical children. Children with ASD had two types of Clostridium (Clostridium diffiicile and Clostridium clostridiioforme) not found in neurotypical children, whereas neurotypical children yielded only one species (Clostridium tertium) not found in the ASD children. The present study emphasizes the potential correlation between gut colonization of Clostridia and the probability of developing or exacerbating ASD among Egyptian children. If Clostridium bacteria play a potential role in the etiology of ASD, this may open the possibility for effective treatment of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nagwa A Meguid
- Research on Children with Special Needs DepartmentNational Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.,CONEM Egypt Child Brain Research Group, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (CONEM), Toften 24, 8610, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Ehab M Eid
- Faculty of Postgraduate Childhood Studies, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maisa Farid
- Faculty of Postgraduate Childhood Studies, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sanaa K Mohamed
- Biological Anthropology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Khaled E Wakeel
- Biological Anthropology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,CONEM Scientific Secretary, Verona, Italy
| | - Amal Elsaeid
- Research on Children with Special Needs DepartmentNational Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Doaa Y Hammad
- Biological Anthropology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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Ghosh P, Swanson L, Sayed IM, Mittal Y, Lim BB, Ibeawuchi SR, Foretz M, Viollet B, Sahoo D, Das S. The stress polarity signaling (SPS) pathway serves as a marker and a target in the leaky gut barrier: implications in aging and cancer. Life Sci Alliance 2020; 3:e201900481. [PMID: 32041849 PMCID: PMC7012149 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.201900481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut barrier separates trillions of microbes from the largest immune system in the body; when compromised, a "leaky" gut barrier fuels systemic inflammation, which hastens the progression of chronic diseases. Strategies to detect and repair the leaky gut barrier remain urgent and unmet needs. Recently, a stress-polarity signaling (SPS) pathway has been described in which the metabolic sensor, AMP-kinase acts via its effector, GIV (also known as Girdin) to augment epithelial polarity exclusively under energetic stress and suppresses tumor formation. Using murine and human colon-derived organoids, and enteroid-derived monolayers (EDMs) that are exposed to stressors, we reveal that the SPS-pathway is active in the intestinal epithelium and requires a catalytically active AMP-kinase. Its pharmacologic augmentation resists stress-induced collapse of the epithelium when challenged with microbes or microbial products. In addition, the SPS-pathway is suppressed in the aging gut, and its reactivation in enteroid-derived monolayers reverses aging-associated inflammation and loss of barrier function. It is also silenced during progression of colorectal cancers. These findings reveal the importance of the SPS-pathway in the gut and highlights its therapeutic potential for treating gut barrier dysfunction in aging, cancer, and dysbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradipta Ghosh
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Lee Swanson
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ibrahim M Sayed
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Assiut University, Asyut, Egypt
| | - Yash Mittal
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Blaze B Lim
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Marc Foretz
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (French Institute of Health and Medical Research) (INSERM) U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (National Center for Scientific Research) (CNRS) United for Medical Research (UMR) 8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Benoit Viollet
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (French Institute of Health and Medical Research) (INSERM) U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (National Center for Scientific Research) (CNRS) United for Medical Research (UMR) 8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Debashis Sahoo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Jacob's School of Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Soumita Das
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Poornimai Abirami GP, Radhakrishnan RK, Johnson E, Roshan SA, Yesudhas A, Parveen S, Biswas A, Ravichandran VR, Muthuswamy A, Kandasamy M. The Regulation of Reactive Neuroblastosis, Neuroplasticity, and Nutraceuticals for Effective Management of Autism Spectrum Disorder. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:207-222. [PMID: 32006362 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a cluster of neurodevelopmental and genetic disorders that has been characterized mainly by social withdrawal, repetitive behavior, restricted interests, and deficits in language processing mainly in children. ASD has been known to severely impair behavioral patterns and cognitive functions including learning and memory due to defects in neuroplasticity. The biology of the ASD appears to be highly complex and heterogeneous, and thus, finding a therapeutic target for autism remains obscure. There has been no complete prevention or disease-modifying cure for this disorder. Recently, individuals with autism have been characterized by reactive neurogenesis, obstructions in axonal growth, heterotopia, resulting from dysplasia of neuroblasts in different brain regions. Therefore, it can be assumed that the aforementioned neuropathological correlates seen in the autistic individuals might originate from the defects mainly in the regulation of neuroblasts in the developing as well as adult brain. Nutrient deficiencies during early brain development and intake of certain allergic foods have been proposed as main reasons for the development of ASD. However, the integrated understanding of neurodevelopment and functional aspects of neuroplasticity working through neurogenesis in ASD is highly limited. Moreover, neurogenesis at the level of neuroblasts can be regulated by nutrition. Hence, defects in neuroblastosis underlying the severity of autism potentially could be rectified by appropriate implementation of nutraceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- G P Poornimai Abirami
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Risna Kanjirassery Radhakrishnan
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Esther Johnson
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Syed Aasish Roshan
- Molecular Gerontology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ajisha Yesudhas
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Suhadha Parveen
- Molecular Gerontology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abir Biswas
- Molecular Gerontology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vijaya Roobini Ravichandran
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anusuyadevi Muthuswamy
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. .,Molecular Gerontology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Mahesh Kandasamy
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. .,Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. .,Faculty Recharge Programme, University Grants Commission (UGC-FRP), New Delhi, India.
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34
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Oliveira BMFD, Frutuoso MFP. Sem receita: deslocamentos do olhar da Nutrição sobre o comer de crianças autistas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/interface.190597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Esta escrita traz reflexões da dissertação Muito além dos nutrientes: a dinâmica alimentar de crianças autistas, que se propôs a (re) pensar a alimentação dessas crianças. Por meio de experimentações com alimentos, oficinas culinárias, passeio à feira livre, festa junina e piquenique, explora alguns deslocamentos do olhar da Nutrição tendo como ingredientes fragmentos fotográficos e escritos de Fernand Deligny, Manoel de Barros e José Miguel Wisnik: a abertura ao imprevisível; o fazer com e estar junto; o desafio de comunicar os resultados da pesquisa para as próprias crianças, usando tirinhas sobre as experimentações; e a proposição do conceito de dinâmica alimentar. Cozinhar e comer juntos permitiram interagir, distanciando-se da concepção restrita de dieta saudável e do nocivo/patológico da comida. Trouxe à tona a complexidade dos processos alimentares, em que o imprevisível – da vida – não desapareceu. Ao contrário, deu sentido ao que aconteceu.
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Piras C, Pintus R, Pruna D, Dessì A, Atzori L, Fanos V. Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection: A Case Report Analysis with a Metabolomics Approach. Curr Pediatr Rev 2020; 16:183-193. [PMID: 31642785 PMCID: PMC8193809 DOI: 10.2174/1573396315666191022102925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is a clinical condition characterized by a sudden and dramatic obsessive-compulsive disorder with a suggested post-infectious immune-mediated etiology. This condition is accompanied by an extensive series of relatively serious neuropsychiatric symptoms. The diagnosis of PANS is made by "exclusion", as the individual PANS symptoms overlap with a multiplicity of psychiatric disorders with the onset in childhood. A number of researchers accumulated evidence to support the hypothesis that PANS was closely associated with a number of infections. In the last decade, metabolomics played an essential role in improving the knowledge of complex biological systems and identifying potential new biomarkers as indicators of pathological progressions or pharmacologic responses to therapy. The metabolome is considered the most predictive phenotype, capable of recognizing epigenetic differences, reflecting more closely the clinical reality at any given moment and thus providing extremely dynamic data. In the present work, the most recent hypothesis and suggested mechanisms of this condition are reviewed and the case of a 10 - year-old girl with PANS is described, before and after clarithromycin treatment. The main results of this case report are discussed from a metabolomics point of view. The alteration of several metabolic pathways concerning the microbial activity highlights the possible role of the microbiome in the development of PANS. Furthermore, different metabolic perturbations at the level of protein biosynthesis, energy and amino acid metabolisms are observed and discussed. Based on our observations, it is believed that metabolomics is a promising technology to unravel the mysteries of PANS in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Piras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberta Pintus
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dario Pruna
- Pediatric Neurology and Epileptology Unit, Brotzu Hospital Trust, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Angelica Dessì
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Atzori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
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Karhu E, Zukerman R, Eshraghi RS, Mittal J, Deth RC, Castejon AM, Trivedi M, Mittal R, Eshraghi AA. Nutritional interventions for autism spectrum disorder. Nutr Rev 2019; 78:515-531. [DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuz092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an increasingly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder with considerable clinical heterogeneity. With no cure for the disorder, treatments commonly center around speech and behavioral therapies to improve the characteristic social, behavioral, and communicative symptoms of ASD. Gastrointestinal disturbances are commonly encountered comorbidities that are thought to be not only another symptom of ASD but to also play an active role in modulating the expression of social and behavioral symptoms. Therefore, nutritional interventions are used by a majority of those with ASD both with and without clinical supervision to alleviate gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms. Despite a considerable interest in dietary interventions, no consensus exists regarding optimal nutritional therapy. Thus, patients and physicians are left to choose from a myriad of dietary protocols. This review, summarizes the state of the current clinical and experimental literature on nutritional interventions for ASD, including gluten-free and casein-free, ketogenic, and specific carbohydrate diets, as well as probiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and dietary supplements (vitamins A, C, B6, and B12; magnesium and folate).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Karhu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Ryan Zukerman
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Rebecca S Eshraghi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Jeenu Mittal
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Richard C Deth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Ana M Castejon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Malav Trivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
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New and Preliminary Evidence on Altered Oral and Gut Microbiota in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Implications for ASD Diagnosis and Subtyping Based on Microbial Biomarkers. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11092128. [PMID: 31489949 PMCID: PMC6770733 DOI: 10.3390/nu11092128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental disorder characterized by behavioral and social impairments as well as multiple co-occurring conditions, such as gastrointestinal abnormalities, dental/periodontal diseases, and allergies. The etiology of ASD likely involves interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Recent studies suggest that oral and gut microbiome play important roles in the pathogenesis of inflammation, immune dysfunction, and disruption of the gut–brain axis, which may contribute to ASD pathophysiology. The majority of previous studies used unrelated neurotypical individuals as controls, and they focused on the gut microbiome, with little attention paid to the oral flora. In this pilot study, we used a first degree-relative matched design combined with high fidelity 16S rRNA (ribosomal RNA) gene amplicon sequencing in order to characterize the oral and gut microbiotas of patients with ASD compared to neurotypical individuals, and explored the utility of microbiome markers for ASD diagnosis and subtyping of clinical comorbid conditions. Additionally, we aimed to develop microbiome biomarkers to monitor responses to a subsequent clinical trial using probiotics supplementation. We identified distinct features of gut and salivary microbiota that differed between ASD patients and neurotypical controls. We next explored the utility of some differentially enriched markers for ASD diagnosis and examined the association between the oral and gut microbiomes using network analysis. Due to the tremendous clinical heterogeneity of the ASD population, we explored the relationship between microbiome and clinical indices as an attempt to extract microbiome signatures assocociated with clinical subtypes, including allergies, abdominal pain, and abnormal dietary habits. The diagnosis of ASD currently relies on psychological testing with potentially high subjectivity. Given the emerging role that the oral and gut microbiome plays in systemic diseases, our study will provide preliminary evidence for developing microbial markers that can be used to diagnose or guide treatment of ASD and comorbid conditions. These preliminary results also serve as a starting point to test whether altering the oral and gut microbiome could improve co-morbid conditions in patients with ASD and further modify the core symptoms of ASD.
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Gogou M, Kolios G. Nutritional Supplements During Gestation and Autism Spectrum Disorder: What Do We Really Know and How Far Have We Gone? J Am Coll Nutr 2019; 39:261-271. [PMID: 31318329 DOI: 10.1080/07315724.2019.1635920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Nutritional interventions are gaining remarkable attention as complementary management options for autism. Our aim is to provide literature data about the impact of the administration of dietary supplements during pregnancy on the risk of autism spectrum disorder in the offspring. A comprehensive search was undertaken by 2 reviewers independently using PubMed as the medical database source. Prospective clinical and experimental studies were considered and no year-of-publication restriction was placed. We were able to identify 4 basic (conducted in rodents) and 3 clinical research papers fulfilling our selection criteria. Supplements studied included folic acid, iron, multivitamins, choline, vitamin D, and docosahexaenoic acid. Choline and folic acid had a significant impact on the expression of autism-related genes. However, from a clinical point of view, prenatal folate administration did not reduce the risk of autism. Similarly, iron had no significant impact, while the use of multivitamins in moderate frequency had a protective effect. The use of vitamin D and docosahexaenoic acid during gestation decreased the incidence of autism in animal models. In conclusion, available data are controversial and cannot change current routine practice. More large-scale prospective studies are needed to identify the real effect of nutritional supplements and also optimize their administration.Key teaching pointsMultivitamins use during pregnancy can exert a protective effect on the risk of autism, although depending on the frequency of use. Nevertheless, prenatal iron and folate were not shown to have any significant impact.Research based on animal models showed that choline and folic acid can have a significant impact on the expression of autism-related genes in a sex-specific manner.Furthermore, the use of vitamin D and docosahexaenoic acid during gestation seem to decrease the incidence of autism in animal offspring.In the future, more clinical, large-scale prospective and methodologically homogenous clinical studies are needed to further investigate the effect of the periconceptional use of nutritional supplements on autism risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gogou
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University General Hospital AHEPA, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George Kolios
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Brouns F, van Rooy G, Shewry P, Rustgi S, Jonkers D. Adverse Reactions to Wheat or Wheat Components. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2019; 18:1437-1452. [PMID: 33336916 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Wheat is an important staple food globally, providing a significant contribution to daily energy, fiber, and micronutrient intake. Observational evidence for health impacts of consuming more whole grains, among which wheat is a major contributor, points to significant risk reduction for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and colon cancer. However, specific wheat components may also elicit adverse physical reactions in susceptible individuals such as celiac disease (CD) and wheat allergy (WA). Recently, broad coverage in the popular and social media has suggested that wheat consumption leads to a wide range of adverse health effects. This has motivated many consumers to avoid or reduce their consumption of foods that contain wheat/gluten, despite the absence of diagnosed CD or WA, raising questions about underlying mechanisms and possible nocebo effects. However, recent studies did show that some individuals may suffer from adverse reactions in absence of CD and WA. This condition is called non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) or non-celiac wheat sensitivity (NCWS). In addition to gluten, wheat and derived products contain many other components which may trigger symptoms, including inhibitors of α-amylase and trypsin (ATIs), lectins, and rapidly fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs). Furthermore, the way in which foods are being processed, such as the use of yeast or sourdough fermentation, fermentation time and baking conditions, may also affect the presence and bioactivity of these components. The present review systematically describes the characteristics of wheat-related intolerances, including their etiology, prevalence, the components responsible, diagnosis, and strategies to reduce adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Brouns
- Dept. of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht Univ., Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gonny van Rooy
- Div. of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Dept. of Internal Medicine, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht Univ. Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Shewry
- Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, U.K
| | - Sachin Rustgi
- Dept. of Plant and Environmental Sciences, School of Health Research, Clemson Univ., Florence, SC, 29505, U.S.A.,Dept. of Crop & Soil Sciences, Washington State Univ., Pullman, WA, U.S.A
| | - Daisy Jonkers
- Div. of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Dept. of Internal Medicine, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht Univ. Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Alhowikan AM, AL-Ayadhi LY, Halepoto DM. Impact of environmental pollution, dietary factors and diabetes mellitus on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Pak J Med Sci 2019; 35:1179-1184. [PMID: 31372164 PMCID: PMC6659068 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.35.4.269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complex neurodevelopmental condition described by impairments in three main behavioral areas: social deficits, impaired communication, and repetitive behaviors. Despite many years of vast study, the causes of ASD are still unknown. Various risk factors including genetic, infectious, metabolic and immunological have been investigated however, environmental, nutritional and diabetes related risk factors have not received sufficient attention. This study has provided an insight into the comprehensive interaction between environmental pollution, dietary factors and diabetes mellitus that could lead to the advancement of this debilitating neurodevelopment disorder. The literature search was done using PubMed and Google Scholar databases up to October 2018. Key words "Environmental Pollution", "Nutritional Factors", "Diabetes Mellitus", "Autism Spectrum Disorder" were selected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahman Mohammed Alhowikan
- Abdulrahman Mohammed Alhowikan, PhD. Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, P O Box 2925, Riyadh 11461 and Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Yousef AL-Ayadhi
- Laila Yousef AL-Ayadhi, MBBS, PhD. Autism Research and Treatment Center, Department of physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, P O Box 2925, Riyadh 11461 and Saudi Arabia
| | - Dost Muhammad Halepoto
- Dost Muhammad Halepoto, PhD. Autism Research and Treatment Center, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, P O Box 2925, Riyadh 11461 and Saudi Arabia
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Anzawa D, Mawatari T, Tanaka Y, Yamamoto M, Genda T, Takahashi S, Nishijima T, Kamasaka H, Suzuki S, Kuriki T. Effects of synbiotics containing Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis GCL2505 and inulin on intestinal bifidobacteria: A randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Food Sci Nutr 2019; 7:1828-1837. [PMID: 31139397 PMCID: PMC6526661 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.1033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A number of studies have shown the bifidogenic effects of either probiotic bifidobacteria or inulin, and this bifidogenic shift in the composition of the colonic microbiota is likely the basis for their positive impact on human health. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of synbiotics containing the probiotic bacterium Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (B. lactis) GCL2505 and inulin on the levels of intestinal bifidobacteria compared with B. lactis GCL2505 alone. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial was carried out involving 60 healthy subjects with a tendency for constipation using fermented milk containing B. lactis GCL2505 and inulin (synbiotic), only B. lactis GCL2505 (probiotic), and placebo. Fecal samples were collected at the end of each 2-week intervention period, and the bifidobacterial count was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. The numbers of total bifidobacteria and B. lactis in feces were significantly increased during the probiotic and synbiotic intake periods compared with the placebo intake period. Furthermore, the numbers of total bifidobacteria and endogenous bifidobacteria were significantly higher in the synbiotic intake period compared with the probiotic intake period, while there was no difference in the number of B. lactis. These results suggested that the synbiotics containing B. lactis GCL2505 and inulin had a greater effect on the number of bifidobacteria than a drink containing probiotics alone and could be useful for the improvement of the intestinal environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Anzawa
- Institute of Health SciencesEzaki Glico Co., Ltd.OsakaJapan
| | | | | | - Mio Yamamoto
- Institute of Health SciencesEzaki Glico Co., Ltd.OsakaJapan
| | - Tomomi Genda
- Institute of Health SciencesEzaki Glico Co., Ltd.OsakaJapan
| | | | | | | | - Satoru Suzuki
- Shinagawa Season Terrace Health Care ClinicTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Kuriki
- Institute of Health SciencesEzaki Glico Co., Ltd.OsakaJapan
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The Possible Role of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092115. [PMID: 31035684 PMCID: PMC6539237 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
New research points to a possible link between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the gut microbiota as many autistic children have co-occurring gastrointestinal problems. This review focuses on specific alterations of gut microbiota mostly observed in autistic patients. Particularly, the mechanisms through which such alterations may trigger the production of the bacterial metabolites, or leaky gut in autistic people are described. Various altered metabolite levels were observed in the blood and urine of autistic children, many of which were of bacterial origin such as short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), indoles and lipopolysaccharides (LPS). A less integrative gut-blood-barrier is abundant in autistic individuals. This explains the leakage of bacterial metabolites into the patients, triggering new body responses or an altered metabolism. Some other co-occurring symptoms such as mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress in cells, altered tight junctions in the blood-brain barrier and structural changes in the cortex, hippocampus, amygdala and cerebellum were also detected. Moreover, this paper suggests that ASD is associated with an unbalanced gut microbiota (dysbiosis). Although the cause-effect relationship between ASD and gut microbiota is not yet well established, the consumption of specific probiotics may represent a side-effect free tool to re-establish gut homeostasis and promote gut health. The diagnostic and therapeutic value of bacterial-derived compounds as new possible biomarkers, associated with perturbation in the phenylalanine metabolism, as well as potential therapeutic strategies will be discussed.
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Babinská K, Tomova A, Celušáková H, Babková J, Repiská G, Kubranská A, Filčíková D, Siklenková L, Ostatníková D. Fecal calprotectin levels correlate with main domains of the autism diagnostic interview-revised (ADI-R) in a sample of individuals with autism spectrum disorders from Slovakia. Physiol Res 2018; 66:S517-S522. [PMID: 29355379 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, as well as repetitive behavior and restricted interests. There is convincing evidence that the intestinal inflammation is involved in etiology of ASD. Increased levels of inflammatory markers were shown to be associated with more aberrant behaviors and communication of subjects with ASD. Calprotectin in the feces is produced by activated neutrophils and epithelial cells of the gut mucosa, and its levels reflect local inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Concentration of fecal calprotectin was determined by ELISA method in 87 individuals with ASD and 51 controls, of that 29 siblings of children with ASD and 22 non-related controls. In non-relatives significantly lower values of fecal calprotectin were observed than in both subjects with ASD and their siblings. In the group with ASD significant correlations of fecal calprotectin with all domains of the ADI-R diagnostic tool were found: qualitative abnormalities in reciprocal social interaction and communication, restrictive and repetitive patterns of behavior. Results suggest that low grade intestinal inflammation may be one of factors implicated in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Babinská
- Institute of Physiology, Comenius University Faculty of Medicine, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
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Gogou M, Kolios G. Are therapeutic diets an emerging additional choice in autism spectrum disorder management? World J Pediatr 2018; 14:215-223. [PMID: 29846886 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-018-0164-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A nutritional background has been recognized in the pathophysiology of autism and a series of nutritional interventions have been considered as complementary therapeutic options. As available treatments and interventions are not effective in all individuals, new therapies could broaden management options for these patients. Our aim is to provide current literature data about the effect of therapeutic diets on autism spectrum disorder. DATA SOURCE A systematic review was conducted by two reviewers independently. Prospective clinical and preclinical studies were considered. RESULT Therapeutic diets that have been used in children with autism include ketogenic and gluten/casein-free diet. We were able to identify 8 studies conducted in animal models of autism demonstrating a beneficial effect on neurophysiological and clinical parameters. Only 1 clinical study was found showing improvement in childhood autism rating scale after implementation of ketogenic diet. With regard to gluten/casein-free diet, 4 clinical studies were totally found with 2 of them showing a favorable outcome in children with autism. Furthermore, a combination of gluten-free and modified ketogenic diet in a study had a positive effect on social affect scores. No serious adverse events have been reported. CONCLUSION Despite encouraging laboratory data, there is controversy about the real clinical effect of therapeutic diets in patients with autism. More research is needed to provide sounder scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gogou
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University General Hospital AHEPA, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloníki, Greece.
| | - G Kolios
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Cristiano C, Lama A, Lembo F, Mollica MP, Calignano A, Mattace Raso G. Interplay Between Peripheral and Central Inflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Possible Nutritional and Therapeutic Strategies. Front Physiol 2018; 9:184. [PMID: 29563885 PMCID: PMC5845898 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre- and post-natal factors can affect brain development and function, impacting health outcomes with particular relevance to neurodevelopmental diseases, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Maternal obesity and its associated complications have been related to the increased risk of ASDs in offspring. Indeed, animals exposed to maternal obesity or high fat diets are prone to social communication impairment and repetitive behavior, the hallmarks of autism. During development, fatty acids and sugars, as well as satiety hormones, like insulin and leptin, and inflammatory factors related to obesity-induced low grade inflammation, could play a role in the impairment of neuroendocrine system and brain neuronal circuits regulating behavior in offspring. On the other side, post-natal factors, such as mode of delivery, stress, diet, or antibiotic treatment are associated to a modification of gut microbiota composition, perturbing microbiota-gut-brain axis. Indeed, the interplay between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system not only occurs through neural, hormonal, and immune pathways, but also through microbe-derived metabolic products. The modification of unhealthy perinatal and postnatal environment, manipulation of gut microbiota, nutritional, and dietary interventions could represent possible strategies in preventing or limiting ASDs, through targeting inflammatory process and gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cristiano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Adriano Lama
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Lembo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria P Mollica
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Calignano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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The stress polarity pathway: AMPK 'GIV'-es protection against metabolic insults. Aging (Albany NY) 2017; 9:303-314. [PMID: 28209925 PMCID: PMC5361665 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Loss of cell polarity impairs organ development and function; it can also serve as one of the first triggers for oncogenesis. In 2006-2007 two groups simultaneously reported the existence of a special pathway for maintaining epithelial polarity in the face of environmental stressors. In this pathway, AMPK, a key sensor of metabolic stress stabilizes tight junctions, preserves cell polarity, and thereby, maintains epithelial barrier functions. Accumulating evidence since has shown that pharmacologic activation of AMPK by Metformin protects the epithelial barrier against multiple environmental and pathological stressful states and suppresses tumorigenesis. How AMPK protects the epithelium remained unknown until recently Aznar et al. identified GIV/Girdin as a novel effector of AMPK at the cell-cell junctions; phosphorylation of GIV at a single site by AMPK appears to be both necessary and sufficient for strengthening tight junctions and preserving cell polarity and epithelial barrier function in the face of energetic stress. Here we review the fundamentals of this specialized signaling pathway that buttresses cell-cell junctions against stress-induced collapse and discuss its pathophysiologic relevance in the context of a variety of diseases, including cancers, diabetes, aging, and the growing list of beneficial effects of the AMPK-activator, Metformin.
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Józefczuk J, Konopka E, Bierła JB, Trojanowska I, Sowińska A, Czarnecki R, Sobol L, Józefczuk P, Surdy W, Cukrowska B. The Occurrence of Antibodies Against Gluten in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders Does Not Correlate with Serological Markers of Impaired Intestinal Permeability. J Med Food 2017; 21:181-187. [PMID: 29072974 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2017.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) display an increased immune reactivity against gluten, which is supposed to be the effect of intestinal barrier abnormalities. The aim of study was to evaluate the relation of antibody induced by gluten to zonulin and intestinal fatty acid binding proteins (I-FABP), that is, serological markers of an impaired gut barrier. The study included 77 patients with ASDs. Zonulin, I-FABP, celiac-specific antibodies, anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA), and antibodies against neural transglutaminase 6 (TG6) of immunoglobulin (Ig) A and IgG classes were detected in sera. Celiac-specific antibodies were negative in all ASD children, four children (5.2%) had positive anti-TG6 antibodies, and increased AGA-IgG production was found in 21 patients (27.3%). Mean levels of zonulin and I-FABP in ASD patients were similar to those found in healthy controls and revealed a negative correlation with age, whereas regression analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between antibody production and the age. Serum concentrations of zonulin and I-FABP showed no statistically significant association with antibody positivity. An increased production of antibodies related to gliadin and neural TG6 in ASD children is not related to serological markers of an impaired intestinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Józefczuk
- 1 The Paediatric Ward with the Paediatric Cardiology Unit, Specialist Hospital of the Holy Spirit , Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Ewa Konopka
- 2 Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute , Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Beata Bierła
- 2 Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute , Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Trojanowska
- 2 Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute , Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Sowińska
- 2 Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute , Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Czarnecki
- 1 The Paediatric Ward with the Paediatric Cardiology Unit, Specialist Hospital of the Holy Spirit , Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Lucjan Sobol
- 3 Department of Pathology, Specialist Hospital of the Holy Spirit , Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Paweł Józefczuk
- 4 Foundation for Protection of the Immunological System "Immuno ," Warsaw, Poland
| | - Weronika Surdy
- 1 The Paediatric Ward with the Paediatric Cardiology Unit, Specialist Hospital of the Holy Spirit , Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Bożena Cukrowska
- 2 Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute , Warsaw, Poland
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48
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Skalny AV, Simashkova NV, Skalnaya AA, Klyushnik TP, Bjørklund G, Skalnaya MG, Tinkov AA. Assessment of gender and age effects on serum and hair trace element levels in children with autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis 2017; 32:1675-1684. [PMID: 28664504 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The primary objective of the present study was to investigate the levels of essential trace elements in hair and serum in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and investigate the age and gender effects. Children with ASD were characterized by significantly higher levels of copper (Cu) (+8%), iron (Fe) (+5%), and selenium (Se) (+13%) levels in hair and only 8% higher serum Cu levels. After stratification for gender, ASD boys were characterized by significantly increased hair Cu (+ 25%), Fe (+ 25%), and Se (+ 9%) levels, whereas in girls only Se content was elevated (+ 15%). Boys and girls suffering from ASD were characterized by significantly higher serum manganese (Mn) (+20%) and Cu (+18%) as compared to the control values, respectively. In the group of younger children (2-5 years), no significant group difference in hair trace element levels was detected, whereas serum Cu levels were significantly higher (+7%). In turn, the serum concentration of Se in ASD children was 11% lower than that in neurotypical children. In the group of older children with ASD (6-10 years), hair Fe and Se levels were 21% and 16% higher, whereas in serum only Cu levels were increased (+12%) as compared to the controls. Correlation analysis also revealed a different relationship between serum and hair trace element levels with respect to gender and age. Therefore, it is highly recommended to assess several bioindicative matrices for critical evaluation of trace element status in patients with ASD in order to develop adequate personalized nutritional correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
- Orenburg State University, Orenburg, Russia
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 15, 150000, Yaroslavl, Russia
- Trace Element Institute for UNESCO, Lyon, France
| | - Natalia V Simashkova
- Scientific Center for Mental Health, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Tatiana P Klyushnik
- Scientific Center for Mental Health, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway
| | | | - Alexey A Tinkov
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia.
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 15, 150000, Yaroslavl, Russia.
- Orenburg State Medical University, Orenburg, Russia.
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49
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Do bacteria shape our development? Crosstalk between intestinal microbiota and HPA axis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 83:458-471. [PMID: 28918360 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The human body contains as many bacteria in the intestine as the total number of human body cells. These bacteria have a central position in human health and disease, and would also play a role in the regulation of emotions, behavior, and even higher cognitive functions. The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis (HPA axis) is a major physiological stress system that produces cortisol. This hormone is involved in responding to environmental stress and also shapes many aspects of brain development. Both the HPA axis and the intestinal microbiota show rapid and profound developmental changes during the first years of life. Early environmental disturbances can affect the development of both systems. Early adversity, for example, is known to lead to later unbalances in both, as well as to psychopathological behavior and emotions. The goal of this theoretical review is to summarize current knowledge on the developmental crosstalk between the intestinal microbiota and the HPA axis, providing a basis for understanding the development and bidirectional communication between these two essential systems in human functioning.
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50
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Li YJ, Ou JJ, Li YM, Xiang DX. Dietary Supplement for Core Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Where Are We Now and Where Should We Go? Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:155. [PMID: 28878697 PMCID: PMC5572332 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a class of severe and chronic conditions and core symptoms are deficits in social interaction, language communication impairments, and repetitive/stereotyped behavior. Given the limitations of available treatments and substantially increased prevalence of the disease, additional interventions are needed. Since the use of dietary supplements for ASD is of high prevalence, up-to-date information about those supplements are required for both parents and clinicians. Relevant articles were identified through a systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and PsychINFO databases (through May 2017). Current best evidences of 22 randomized controlled trials on 8 different dietary supplements for core symptoms of ASD were reviewed. For each supplement, this report focuses on the definition and potential therapeutic mechanisms, the latest advances, and discussion of study limitations and future directions. Most studies were small and short term, and there is little evidence to support effectiveness of dietary supplements for children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jiang Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian-Jun Ou
- Institute of Mental Health, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ya-Min Li
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Da-Xiong Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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