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Frye RE, Rincon N, McCarty PJ, Brister D, Scheck AC, Rossignol DA. Biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 197:106520. [PMID: 38703861 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106520] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 1 in 36 children and is associated with physiological abnormalities, most notably mitochondrial dysfunction, at least in a subset of individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis discovered 204 relevant articles which evaluated biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD individuals. Significant elevations (all p < 0.01) in the prevalence of lactate (17%), pyruvate (41%), alanine (15%) and creatine kinase (9%) were found in ASD. Individuals with ASD had significant differences (all p < 0.01) with moderate to large effect sizes (Cohen's d' ≥ 0.6) compared to controls in mean pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, ATP, and creatine kinase. Some studies found abnormal TCA cycle metabolites associated with ASD. Thirteen controlled studies reported mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions or variations in the ASD group in blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymphocytes, leucocytes, granulocytes, and brain. Meta-analyses discovered significant differences (p < 0.01) in copy number of mtDNA overall and in ND1, ND4 and CytB genes. Four studies linked specific mtDNA haplogroups to ASD. A series of studies found a subgroup of ASD with elevated mitochondrial respiration which was associated with increased sensitivity of the mitochondria to physiological stressors and neurodevelopmental regression. Lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, carnitine, and acyl-carnitines were associated with clinical features such as delays in language, social interaction, cognition, motor skills, and with repetitive behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms, although not all studies found an association. Lactate, carnitine, acyl-carnitines, ATP, CoQ10, as well as mtDNA variants, heteroplasmy, haplogroups and copy number were associated with ASD severity. Variability was found across biomarker studies primarily due to differences in collection and processing techniques as well as the intrinsic heterogeneity of the ASD population. Several studies reported alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in mothers of children with ASD and in neonates who develop ASD. Treatments targeting mitochondria, particularly carnitine and ubiquinol, appear beneficial in ASD. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD and common physiological abnormalities in individuals with ASD including gastrointestinal disorders, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction is outlined. Several subtypes of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are discussed, including one related to neurodevelopmental regression, another related to alterations in microbiome metabolites, and another related to elevations in acyl-carnitines. Mechanisms linking abnormal mitochondrial function with alterations in prenatal brain development and postnatal brain function are outlined. Given the multisystem complexity of some individuals with ASD, this review presents evidence for the mitochondria being central to ASD by contributing to abnormalities in brain development, cognition, and comorbidities such as immune and gastrointestinal dysfunction as well as neurodevelopmental regression. A diagnostic approach to identify mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD is outlined. From this evidence, it is clear that many individuals with ASD have alterations in mitochondrial function which may need to be addressed in order to achieve optimal clinical outcomes. The fact that alterations in mitochondrial metabolism may be found during pregnancy and early in the life of individuals who eventually develop ASD provides promise for early life predictive biomarkers of ASD. Further studies may improve the understanding of the role of the mitochondria in ASD by better defining subgroups and understanding the molecular mechanisms driving some of the unique changes found in mitochondrial function in those with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | | | - Patrick J McCarty
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70113, United States of America.
| | | | - Adrienne C Scheck
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States of America.
| | - Daniel A Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA
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Chang X, Qu HQ, Liu Y, Glessner JT, Hakonarson H. Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroup K Is Protective Against Autism Spectrum Disorder Risk in Populations of European Ancestry. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023:S0890-8567(23)02242-6. [PMID: 38072244 PMCID: PMC11186604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2023.09.550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Accumulative evidence indicates a critical role of mitochondrial function in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), implying that ASD risk may be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction due to DNA (mtDNA) variations. Although a few studies have explored the association between mtDNA variations and ASD, the role of mtDNA in ASD is still unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate whether mitochondrial DNA haplogroups are associated with the risk of ASD. METHOD Two European cohorts and an Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) cohort were analyzed, including 2,062 ASD patients in comparison with 4,632 healthy controls. DNA samples were genotyped using Illumina HumanHap550/610 and Illumina 1M arrays, inclusive of mitochondrial markers. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups were identified from genotyping data using HaploGrep2. A mitochondrial genome imputation pipeline was established to detect mtDNA variants. We conducted a case-control study to investigate potential associations of mtDNA haplogroups and variants with the susceptibility to ASD. RESULTS We observed that the ancient adaptive mtDNA haplogroup K was significantly associated with decreased risk of ASD by the investigation of 2 European cohorts including a total of 2,006 cases and 4,435 controls (odds ratio = 0.64, P=1.79 × 10-5), and we replicated this association in an Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) cohort including 56 cases and 197 controls (odds ratio = 0.35, P = 9.46 × 10-3). Moreover, we demonstrate that the mtDNA variants rs28358571, rs28358584, and rs28358280 are significantly associated with ASD risk. Further expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) analysis indicated that the rs28358584 and rs28358280 genotypes are associated with expression levels of nearby genes in brain tissues, suggesting those mtDNA variants may confer risk for ASD via regulation of expression levels of genes encoded by the mitochondrial genome. CONCLUSION This study helps to shed light on the contribution of mitochondria in ASD and provides new insights into the genetic mechanism underlying ASD, suggesting the potential involvement of mtDNA-encoded proteins in the development of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Chang
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States; Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, China.
| | - Hui-Qi Qu
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Yichuan Liu
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
| | | | - Hakon Hakonarson
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States; The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, United States and Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
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Anitha A, Thanseem I, Iype M, Thomas SV. Mitochondrial dysfunction in cognitive neurodevelopmental disorders: Cause or effect? Mitochondrion 2023; 69:18-32. [PMID: 36621534 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria have a crucial role in brain development and neurogenesis, both in embryonic and adult brains. Since the brain is the highest energy consuming organ, it is highly vulnerable to mitochondrial dysfunction. This has been implicated in a range of brain disorders including, neurodevelopmental conditions, psychiatric illnesses, and neurodegenerative diseases. Genetic variations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and nuclear DNA encoding mitochondrial proteins, have been associated with several cognitive disorders. However, it is not yet clear whether mitochondrial dysfunction is a primary cause of these conditions or a secondary effect. Our review article deals with this topic, and brings out recent advances in mitochondria-oriented therapies. Mitochondrial dysfunction could be involved in the pathogenesis of a subset of disorders involving cognitive impairment. In these patients, mitochondrial dysfunction could be the cause of the condition, rather than the consequence. There are vast areas in this topic that remains to be explored and elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayyappan Anitha
- Dept. of Neurogenetics, Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences (ICCONS), Shoranur, Palakkad 679 523, Kerala, India.
| | - Ismail Thanseem
- Dept. of Neurogenetics, Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences (ICCONS), Shoranur, Palakkad 679 523, Kerala, India
| | - Mary Iype
- Dept. of Pediatric Neurology, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram 695 011, Kerala, India; Dept. of Neurology, ICCONS, Thiruvananthapuram 695 033, Kerala, India
| | - Sanjeev V Thomas
- Dept. of Neurology, ICCONS, Thiruvananthapuram 695 033, Kerala, India
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Caporali L, Fiorini C, Palombo F, Romagnoli M, Baccari F, Zenesini C, Visconti P, Posar A, Scaduto MC, Ormanbekova D, Battaglia A, Tancredi R, Cameli C, Viggiano M, Olivieri A, Torroni A, Maestrini E, Rochat MJ, Bacchelli E, Carelli V, Maresca A. Dissecting the multifaceted contribution of the mitochondrial genome to autism spectrum disorder. Front Genet 2022; 13:953762. [PMID: 36419830 PMCID: PMC9676943 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.953762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a clinically heterogeneous class of neurodevelopmental conditions with a strong, albeit complex, genetic basis. The genetic architecture of ASD includes different genetic models, from monogenic transmission at one end, to polygenic risk given by thousands of common variants with small effects at the other end. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was also proposed as a genetic modifier for ASD, mostly focusing on maternal mtDNA, since the paternal mitogenome is not transmitted to offspring. We extensively studied the potential contribution of mtDNA in ASD pathogenesis and risk through deep next generation sequencing and quantitative PCR in a cohort of 98 families. While the maternally-inherited mtDNA did not seem to predispose to ASD, neither for haplogroups nor for the presence of pathogenic mutations, an unexpected influence of paternal mtDNA, apparently centered on haplogroup U, came from the Italian families extrapolated from the test cohort (n = 74) when compared to the control population. However, this result was not replicated in an independent Italian cohort of 127 families and it is likely due to the elevated paternal age at time of conception. In addition, ASD probands showed a reduced mtDNA content when compared to their unaffected siblings. Multivariable regression analyses indicated that variants with 15%-5% heteroplasmy in probands are associated to a greater severity of ASD based on ADOS-2 criteria, whereas paternal super-haplogroups H and JT were associated with milder phenotypes. In conclusion, our results suggest that the mtDNA impacts on ASD, significantly modifying the phenotypic expression in the Italian population. The unexpected finding of protection induced by paternal mitogenome in term of severity may derive from a role of mtDNA in influencing the accumulation of nuclear de novo mutations or epigenetic alterations in fathers' germinal cells, affecting the neurodevelopment in the offspring. This result remains preliminary and needs further confirmation in independent cohorts of larger size. If confirmed, it potentially opens a different perspective on how paternal non-inherited mtDNA may predispose or modulate other complex diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Caporali
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Fiorini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Flavia Palombo
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Romagnoli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Flavia Baccari
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOSI Epidemiologia e Statistica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Corrado Zenesini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOSI Epidemiologia e Statistica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paola Visconti
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOSI Disturbi dello Spettro Autistico, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annio Posar
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOSI Disturbi dello Spettro Autistico, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Scaduto
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOSI Disturbi dello Spettro Autistico, Bologna, Italy
| | - Danara Ormanbekova
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Agatino Battaglia
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Pisa, Italy
| | - Raffaella Tancredi
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cinzia Cameli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marta Viggiano
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Olivieri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Torroni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Maestrini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Magali Jane Rochat
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma Diagnostica Funzionale Neuroradiologica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Bacchelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valerio Carelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Maresca
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
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Saleh Jaweesh M, Hammadeh ME, Dahadhah FW, Al Zoubi MS, Amor H. Association between the single nucleotide variants of the mitochondrial cytochrome B gene (MT-CYB) and the male infertility. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:3609-3616. [PMID: 35118571 PMCID: PMC9174114 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07200-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Idiopathic male infertility can be attributed to genetic predispositions that affect sperm performance and function. Genetic alterations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been linked to certain types of male infertility and abnormal sperm function. Mutations in the mitochondrial cytochrome B (MT-CYB) gene might lead to some deficiencies in mitochondrial function. Thus, in the current study, we aimed to investigate the effect of mutations in the MT-CYB gene on sperm motility and male infertility. Methods and results Semen specimens were collected from 111 men where 67 men were subfertile and 44 were fertile. QIAamp DNA Mini Kit and REPLI-g Mitochondrial DNA Kit from QIAGEN were used to isolate and amplify the mitochondrial DNA. Followed by PCR and Sanger sequencing for the target sequence in the MT-CYP gene. Sequencing of the MT-CYB gene revealed a total of thirteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Eight SNPs were non-synonymous variant (missense variant) including: rs2853508, rs28357685, rs41518645, rs2853507, rs28357376, rs35070048, rs2853506, and rs28660155. While five SNPs were Synonymous variant: rs527236194, rs28357373, rs28357369, rs41504845, and rs2854124. Among these SNPs, three variants showed a significant difference in the frequency of the genotypes between subfertile and fertile groups: rs527236194 (T15784C) (P = 0.0005), rs28357373 (T15629C) (P = 0.0439), and rs41504845 (C15833T) (P = 0.0038). Moreover, two SNPs showed a significant association between allelic frequencies of rs527236194 (T15784C) (P = 0.0014) and rs41504845 (C15833T) (P = 0.0147) and male subfertility. Conclusion The current study showed a significant association between the MT-CYB gene polymorphisms and the development of male infertility. In particular, rs527236194, rs28357373 and rs41504845 variants were found to be the most related to the subfertility group. Further studies on larger and other populations are required to reveal the exact role of this gene in the development of male infertility. In addition, functional studies will be helpful to elucidate the molecular impact of the MT-CYP polymorphisms on mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayyas Saleh Jaweesh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - Mohamad Eid Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Fatina W Dahadhah
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Mazhar Salim Al Zoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
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Anashkina AA, Erlykina EI. Molecular Mechanisms of Aberrant Neuroplasticity in Autism Spectrum Disorders (Review). Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2021; 13:78-91. [PMID: 34513070 PMCID: PMC8353687 DOI: 10.17691/stm2021.13.1.10] [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: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents the analysis and systematization of modern data on the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) development. Polyetiology and the multifactorial nature of ASD have been proved. The attempt has been made to jointly review and systematize current hypotheses of ASD pathogenesis at the molecular level from the standpoint of aberrant brain plasticity. The mechanism of glutamate excitotoxicity formation, the effect of imbalance of neuroactive amino acids and their derivatives, neurotransmitters, and hormones on the ASD formation have been considered in detail. The strengths and weaknesses of the proposed hypotheses have been analyzed from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine. The conclusion has been drawn on the leading role of glutamate excitotoxicity as a biochemical mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity accompanied by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. The mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity has also been traced at the critical moments of the nervous system development taking into account the influence of various factors of the internal and external environment. New approaches to searching for ASD molecular markers have been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Anashkina
- Senior Teacher, Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya; Senior Researcher, Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - E I Erlykina
- Professor, Head of the Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
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7
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Abd Elrahman MM, El Makawy AI, Hassanane MS, Alam SS, Hassan NHA, Amer MK. Assessment of correlation between asthenozoospermia and mitochondrial DNA mutations in Egyptian infertile men. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2021; 19:11. [PMID: 33459881 PMCID: PMC7813956 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-020-00111-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthenozoospermia is a chief reason for male seminal pathologies with an impression of around 19% of infertile patients. Spermatozoa mitochondrial DNA variations seem to link with low sperm motility. The objective of the study was to assess the relation between mitochondrial mutations and male sterility, especially in asthenozoospermia. The patient semen samples were investigated by studying the sperm physical characters; motility, viability, and morphological parameters were then classified into normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. In addition, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as a bio-indicator of lipid peroxidation, seminal fructose, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were estimated. For molecular analysis, DNA from the semen samples was extracted using a DNA extraction kit. ND1, ND2, and ATPase6 genes were amplified by using a specific primer. After the purification procedure, each PCR product was sequenced to identify the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in selected genes. RESULTS A significant negative correlation between seminal plasma malondialdehyde levels and sperm motility was detected. Meanwhile, TAC analysis revealed significantly lower activity (p ≤ 0.05) in the sample of asthenozoospermic than in normozoospermic men. As regards the seminal plasma fructose, there was no significant difference in the fructose level of normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia cases. At the molecular level, 31 diverse nucleotide substitutions were recognized in mitochondrial DNA. Only ten (10) mutations led to amino acid transformation: four have deleterious effects, four are benign, and the other two have conflicting effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first in Egypt that is concerned with studying the relationship between the mitochondrial DNA mutations in human spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic patients and fertility. The results displayed scientific indications evidenced that there is an association between mitochondrial mutations and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M Abd Elrahman
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Aida I El Makawy
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed S Hassanane
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sally S Alam
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nagwa H A Hassan
- Zoology Dept., Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Medhat K Amer
- Surgery Andrology and infertility Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Glinton KE, Elsea SH. Untargeted Metabolomics for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Current Status and Future Directions. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:647. [PMID: 31551836 PMCID: PMC6746843 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopment disorders characterized by childhood onset deficits in social communication and interaction. Although the exact etiology of most cases of ASDs is unknown, a portion has been proposed to be associated with various metabolic abnormalities including mitochondrial dysfunction, disorders of cholesterol metabolism, and folate abnormalities. Targeted biochemical testing like plasma amino acid and acylcarnitine profiles have demonstrated limited utility in helping to diagnose and manage such patients. Untargeted metabolomics has emerged, however, as a promising tool in screening for underlying biochemical abnormalities and managing treatment and as a means of investigating possible novel biomarkers for the disorder. Here, we review the principles and methodology behind untargeted metabolomics, recent pilot studies utilizing this technology, and areas in which it may be integrated into the care of children with this disorder in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin E. Glinton
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sarah H. Elsea
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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Rose S, Niyazov DM, Rossignol DA, Goldenthal M, Kahler SG, Frye RE. Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Diagn Ther 2018; 22:571-593. [PMID: 30039193 PMCID: PMC6132446 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0352-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects ~ 2% of children in the United States. The etiology of ASD likely involves environmental factors triggering physiological abnormalities in genetically sensitive individuals. One of these major physiological abnormalities is mitochondrial dysfunction, which may affect a significant subset of children with ASD. Here we systematically review the literature on human studies of mitochondrial dysfunction related to ASD. Clinical aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD include unusual neurodevelopmental regression, especially if triggered by an inflammatory event, gastrointestinal symptoms, seizures, motor delays, fatigue and lethargy. Traditional biomarkers of mitochondrial disease are widely reported to be abnormal in ASD, but appear non-specific. Newer biomarkers include buccal cell enzymology, biomarkers of fatty acid metabolism, non-mitochondrial enzyme function, apoptosis markers and mitochondrial antibodies. Many genetic abnormalities are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD, including chromosomal abnormalities, mitochondrial DNA mutations and large-scale deletions, and mutations in both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial nuclear genes. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been described in immune and buccal cells, fibroblasts, muscle and gastrointestinal tissue and the brains of individuals with ASD. Several environmental factors, including toxicants, microbiome metabolites and an oxidized microenvironment are shown to modulate mitochondrial function in ASD tissues. Investigations of treatments for mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are promising but preliminary. The etiology of mitochondrial dysfunction and how to define it in ASD is currently unclear. However, preliminary evidence suggests that the mitochondria may be a fruitful target for treatment and prevention of ASD. Further research is needed to better understand the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Rose
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Dmitriy M Niyazov
- Section of Medical Genetics, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Michael Goldenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology Section, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stephen G Kahler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Division of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas St, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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Cruz ACP, Ferrasa A, Muotri AR, Herai RH. Frequency and association of mitochondrial genetic variants with neurological disorders. Mitochondrion 2018; 46:345-360. [PMID: 30218715 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are small cytosolic organelles and the main source of energy production for the cells, especially in the brain. This organelle has its own genome, the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and genetic variants in this molecule can alter the normal energy metabolism in the brain, contributing to the development of a wide assortment of Neurological Disorders (ND), including neurodevelopmental syndromes, neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders. These ND are comprised by a heterogeneous group of syndromes and diseases that encompass different cognitive phenotypes and behavioral disorders, such as autism, Asperger's syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Huntington disease, Leigh Syndrome and bipolar disorder. In this work we carried out a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to identify and describe the mitochondrial genetic variants associated with the occurrence of ND. Most of genetic variants found in mtDNA were associated with Single Nucleotide Polimorphisms (SNPs), ~79%, with ~15% corresponding to deletions, ~3% to Copy Number Variations (CNVs), ~2% to insertions and another 1% included mtDNA replication problems and genetic rearrangements. We also found that most of the variants were associated with coding regions of mitochondrial proteins but were also found in regulatory transcripts (tRNA and rRNA) and in the D-Loop replication region of the mtDNA. After analysis of mtDNA deletions and CNV, none of them occur in the D-Loop region. This SLR shows that all transcribed mtDNA molecules have mutations correlated with ND. Finally, we describe that all mtDNA variants found were associated with deterioration of cognitive (dementia) and intellectual functions, learning disabilities, developmental delays, and personality and behavior problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina P Cruz
- Experimental Multiuser Laboratory (LEM), Graduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS), School of Medicine (PPGCS), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná 80215-901, Brazil
| | - Adriano Ferrasa
- Experimental Multiuser Laboratory (LEM), Graduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS), School of Medicine (PPGCS), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná 80215-901, Brazil; Department of Informatics (DEINFO), Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa (UEPG), Ponta Grossa, Paraná 84030-900, Brazil
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Stem Cell Program, La Jolla, CA 92037-0695, USA
| | - Roberto H Herai
- Experimental Multiuser Laboratory (LEM), Graduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS), School of Medicine (PPGCS), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná 80215-901, Brazil; Lico Kaesemodel Institute (ILK), Curitiba, Paraná 80240-000, Brazil.
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11
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Wong S, Giulivi C. Autism, Mitochondria and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2017; 15:614-23. [PMID: 27071785 DOI: 10.2174/1871527315666160413122624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a growing concern with more than 1 in every 68 children affected in the United States by age 8. Limited scientific advances have been made regarding the etiology of autism, with general agreement that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to this disorder. OBJECTIVE To explore the link between exposure to PBDE, mitochondrial dysfunction and autism risk. RESULTS Perinatal exposures to PBDEs may contribute to the etiology or morbidity of ASD including mitochondrial dysfunction based on (i) their increased environmental abundance and human exposures, (ii) their activity towards implicated in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity including mitochondria, and (iii) their bioaccumulation in mitochondria. CONCLUSION In this review, we propose that PBDE, and possibly other environmental exposures, during child development can induce or compound mitochondrial dysfunction, which in conjunction with a dysregulated antioxidant response, increase a child's susceptibility of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cecilia Giulivi
- University of California, Department of Molecular Biosciences, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Dr., 3009 VetMed3B, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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12
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Salas A, Martinón-Torres F, Gómez-Carballa A. 'Infertile' studies on mitochondrial DNA variation in asthenozoospermic Tunisian men. Biochem Biophys Rep 2016; 8:114-119. [PMID: 28955946 PMCID: PMC5613696 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2016.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed five studies undertaken by the same research group on the possible links between mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation and asthenozoospermia, all carried out on Tunisian men. A thorough assessment of these articles reveals that all five studies were carried out on virtually the same cohort of patients, although this information was concealed by the authors. Thus, the results were ‘sliced’ in order to unjustifiably maximize the number of publications. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis of their data indicates that the reported results are notably incomplete and deficient. Overall, contrary to the original claims, the association of mtDNA variants with asthenozoospermia finds no support on this saga on Tunisian infertile men. We re-analyze the seeming association of mtDNA with infertility in Tunisians. The existing data are incomplete and deficient. The data do not support association of mtDNA and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Salas
- Unidade de Xenética, Departamento de Anatomía Patolóxica e Ciencias Forenses, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPop Research Group, Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago, Galicia, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
- Corresponding author at: Unidade de Xenética, Departamento de Anatomía Patolóxica e Ciencias Forenses, and Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Grupo de Medicina Xenómica (GMX), Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15872 Galicia, Spain.Unidade de Xenética, Departamento de Anatomía Patolóxica e Ciencias Forenses, and Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Grupo de Medicina Xenómica (GMX), Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de CompostelaGalicia15872Spain
| | - Federico Martinón-Torres
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
- Translational Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Alberto Gómez-Carballa
- Unidade de Xenética, Departamento de Anatomía Patolóxica e Ciencias Forenses, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPop Research Group, Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago, Galicia, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Genética, Vacunas, Infecciones y Pediatría (GENVIP), Hospital Clínico Universitario and Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
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13
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Ch'ng C, Kwok W, Rogic S, Pavlidis P. Meta-Analysis of Gene Expression in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Res 2015; 8:593-608. [PMID: 25720351 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are clinically heterogeneous and biologically complex. In general it remains unclear, what biological factors lead to changes in the brains of autistic individuals. A considerable number of transcriptome analyses have been performed in attempts to address this question, but their findings lack a clear consensus. As a result, each of these individual studies has not led to any significant advance in understanding the autistic phenotype as a whole. Here, we report a meta-analysis of more than 1000 microarrays across twelve independent studies on expression changes in ASD compared to unaffected individuals, in both blood and brain tissues. We identified a number of known and novel genes that are consistently differentially expressed across three studies of the brain (71 samples in total). A subset of the highly ranked genes is suggestive of effects on mitochondrial function. In blood, consistent changes were more difficult to identify, despite individual studies tending to exhibit larger effects than the brain studies. Our results are the strongest evidence to date of a common transcriptome signature in the brains of individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Ch'ng
- Graduate Program in Bioinformatics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (C.C.).,Center for High Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (C.C., W.K., S.R., P.P.)
| | - Willie Kwok
- Center for High Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (C.C., W.K., S.R., P.P.).,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (W.K., S.R., P.P.)
| | - Sanja Rogic
- Center for High Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (C.C., W.K., S.R., P.P.).,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (W.K., S.R., P.P.)
| | - Paul Pavlidis
- Center for High Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (C.C., W.K., S.R., P.P.).,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, V6T 1Z4 (W.K., S.R., P.P.)
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14
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Samsam M, Ahangari R, Naser SA. Pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders: Revisiting gastrointestinal involvement and immune imbalance. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:9942-9951. [PMID: 25110424 PMCID: PMC4123375 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i29.9942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) comprise a group of neurodevelopmental abnormalities that begin in early childhood and are characterized by impairment of social communication and behavioral problems including restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Several genes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD, most of them are involved in neuronal synaptogenesis. A number of environmental factors and associated conditions such as gastrointestinal (GI) abnormalities and immune imbalance have been linked to the pathophysiology of ASD. According to the March 2012 report released by United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of ASD has sharply increased during the recent years and one out of 88 children suffers now from ASD symptoms. Although there is a strong genetic base for the disease, several associated factors could have a direct link to the pathogenesis of ASD or act as modifiers of the genes thus aggravating the initial problem. Many children suffering from ASD have GI problems such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, gastroesophageal reflux, and intestinal infections. A number of studies focusing on the intestinal mucosa, its permeability, abnormal gut development, leaky gut, and other GI problem raised many questions but studies were somehow inconclusive and an expert panel of American Academy of Pediatrics has strongly recommended further investigation in these areas. GI tract has a direct connection with the immune system and an imbalanced immune response is usually seen in ASD children. Maternal infection or autoimmune diseases have been suspected. Activation of the immune system during early development may have deleterious effect on various organs including the nervous system. In this review we revisited briefly the GI and immune system abnormalities and neuropeptide imbalance and their role in the pathophysiology of ASD and discussed some future research directions.
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15
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Mousavizadeh K, Askari M, Arian H, Gourjipour F, Nikpour AR, Tavafjadid M, Aryani O, Kamalidehghan B, Maroof HR, Houshmand M. Association of human mtDNA mutations with autism in Iranian patients. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF ISFAHAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2013; 18:926. [PMID: 24497871 PMCID: PMC3897084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazem Mousavizadeh
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Askari
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Allied Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hajar Arian
- Department of Medical Genetic, Special Medical Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fazel Gourjipour
- Department of Molecular Biology, HIV Molecular Research Laboratory, School of Public Health and Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin R. Nikpour
- Department of Immunology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Tavafjadid
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Aryani
- Department of Medical Genetic, Special Medical Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Kamalidehghan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hamid R. Maroof
- Department of Medical Genetic, Special Medical Center, Tehran, Iran
| | - Massoud Houshmand
- Department of Medical Genetic, Special Medical Center, Tehran, Iran,Department of Medical Genetics, National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran,Address for correspondence: Dr. Massoud Houshmand, Department of Medical Genetics, National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran. E-mail:
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Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder of unknown origin that manifests in early childhood. Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) refer to a broader group of neurobiological conditions, pervasive developmental disorders. Despite several arguments for a strong genetic contribution, the molecular basis in most cases remains unexplained. Several studies have reported an association between ASDs and mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) molecule. In order to confirm these causative relationship, we screened 21 individuals with idiopathic ASDs for a number of the most common mtDNA mutations. We identified two patients with candidate mutations: m.6852G>A that produces an amino acid change of glycine to serine in the MT-CO1 gene and m.8033A>G (Ile→Val) in the MT-CO2 gene. Overall, these findings support the notion that mitochondrial mutations are associated with ASDs. Additional studies are needed to further define the role of mitochondrial defects in the pathogenesis of autism.
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17
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Essa MM, Subash S, Braidy N, Al-Adawi S, Lim CK, Manivasagam T, Guillemin GJ. Role of NAD(+), Oxidative Stress, and Tryptophan Metabolism in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Tryptophan Res 2013; 6:15-28. [PMID: 23922500 PMCID: PMC3729335 DOI: 10.4137/ijtr.s11355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive neuro-developmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, reduced/absent verbal and non-verbal communication, and repetitive behavior during early childhood. The etiology of this developmental disorder is poorly understood, and no biomarkers have been identified. Identification of novel biochemical markers related to autism would be advantageous for earlier clinical diagnosis and intervention. Studies suggest that oxidative stress-induced mechanisms and reduced antioxidant defense, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired energy metabolism (NAD(+), NADH, ATP, pyruvate, and lactate), are major causes of ASD. This review provides renewed insight regarding current autism research related to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered tryptophan metabolism in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musthafa Mohamed Essa
- Dept of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. ; School of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, Australia
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