1
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pinto Payares DV, Spooner L, Vosters J, Dominguez S, Patrick L, Harris A, Kanungo S. A systematic review on the role of mitochondrial dysfunction/disorders in neurodevelopmental disorders and psychiatric/behavioral disorders. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1389093. [PMID: 39006821 PMCID: PMC11239503 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1389093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mitochondrial diseases are known inborn errors affecting energy metabolism and are as common as chronic diseases such as diabetes, affecting approximately 1 in 5,000 people. The role of mitochondrial diseases/dysfunction has been highlighted in neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD, ADHD, intellectual disability, and speech delay, as well as various psychiatric conditions. Neurodevelopmental disorders are increasingly recognized as having behavioral and psychiatric symptoms. Our study aimed to investigate reports of mitochondrial disorders, noting neurodevelopmental disorders and psychiatric/behavioral conditions. Methods This was done through a systematic review of literature from PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library up to November 2022. Results We found 277 publications, of which 139 met the inclusion criteria. We mostly found review articles with mention of mitochondrial dysfunction/disorder in relation to ASD with brief mentions of psychiatric/behavioral comorbidities. Discussion This suggests a need for broader research efforts beyond ASD to understand the relationship between mitochondrial disorder or dysfunction and various neurodevelopmental and psychiatric/behavioral comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela V. Pinto Payares
- Department of Student Affairs, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Logan Spooner
- Department of Student Affairs, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Jennifer Vosters
- Department of Student Affairs, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Samantha Dominguez
- Department of Student Affairs, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Lauren Patrick
- Department of Student Affairs, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Ann Harris
- Department of Medical Library, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Shibani Kanungo
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
- Department of Medical Ethics, Humanities and Law, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Elbeltagi R. Metabolomic changes in children with autism. World J Clin Pediatr 2024; 13:92737. [PMID: 38947988 PMCID: PMC11212761 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v13.i2.92737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and repetitive behaviors. Metabolomic profiling has emerged as a valuable tool for understanding the underlying metabolic dysregulations associated with ASD. AIM To comprehensively explore metabolomic changes in children with ASD, integrating findings from various research articles, reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case reports, editorials, and a book chapter. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in electronic databases, including PubMed, PubMed Central, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, LISA, and NLM catalog up until January 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed research articles (83), review articles (145), meta-analyses (6), systematic reviews (6), case reports (2), editorials (2), and a book chapter (1) related to metabolomic changes in children with ASD. Exclusion criteria were applied to ensure the relevance and quality of included studies. RESULTS The systematic review identified specific metabolites and metabolic pathways showing consistent differences in children with ASD compared to typically developing individuals. These metabolic biomarkers may serve as objective measures to support clinical assessments, improve diagnostic accuracy, and inform personalized treatment approaches. Metabolomic profiling also offers insights into the metabolic alterations associated with comorbid conditions commonly observed in individuals with ASD. CONCLUSION Integration of metabolomic changes in children with ASD holds promise for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, guiding personalized treatment approaches, monitoring treatment response, and improving outcomes. Further research is needed to validate findings, establish standardized protocols, and overcome technical challenges in metabolomic analysis. By advancing our understanding of metabolic dysregulations in ASD, clinicians can improve the lives of affected individuals and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Pediatric, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Alghrabia, Egypt
- Department of Pediatric, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Bahrain
- Department of Pediatric, University Medical Center, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama, Bahrain, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Department of Pathology, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, Manama 12, Bahrain
- Medical Microbiology Section, Department of Pathology, Irish Royal College of Surgeon, Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Department of Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Alghrabia, Egypt
- Department of Chest Disease, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Bahrain
- Department of Chest Disease, University Medical Center, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Reem Elbeltagi
- Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Bahrain, Busiateen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Al-Kafaji G, Jahrami HA, Alwehaidah MS, Alshammari Y, Husni M. Mitochondrial DNA copy number in autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1196035. [PMID: 37484684 PMCID: PMC10361772 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1196035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Several reports suggest that altered mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-cn), a common biomarker for aberrant mitochondrial function, is implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the results are still elusive. Methods A meta-analysis was performed to summarize the current indication and to provide a more precise assessment of the mtDNA-cn in ASD and ADHD. A search in the MEDLINE-PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases was done to identify related studies up to the end of February 2023. The meta-analysis was conducted according to recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews. Results Fourteen studies involving 666 cases with ASD and ADHD and 585 controls were collected and judged relevant for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled results by a random effects meta-analysis was reported as a geometric mean of the estimated average response ratio and 95% confidence interval. Overall analysis of studies reported differences in mtDNA-cn in blood samples (k = 10) and non-blood samples (brain tissues and oral samples; k = 4) suggested significantly higher mtDNA-cn in patients compared to controls (p = 0.0275). Sub-analysis by stratifying studies based on tissue type, showed no significant increase in mtDNA-cn in blood samples among patients and controls (p = 0.284). Conversely, higher mtDNA-cn was observed in non-blood samples in patients than in controls (p = 0.0122). Further stratified analysis based on blood-cell compositions as potential confounds showed no significant difference in mtDNA-cn in peripheral blood samples of patients comparted to controls (p = 0.074). In addition, stratified analysis of aged-matched ASD and ADHD patients and controls revealed no significant difference in mtDNA-cn in blood samples between patients and controls (p = 0.214), whereas a significant increase in mtDNA-cn was observed in non-blood samples between patients and controls (p < 0.001). Finally, when the mtDNA-cn was analyzed in blood samples of aged-matched patients with ASD (peripheral blood, leukocytes, and PBMCs) or ADHD (peripheral blood), no significant difference in mtDNA-cn was observed between ASD patients and controls (p = 0.385), while a significant increase in mtDNA-cn was found between ADHD patients and controls (p = 0.033). Conclusion In this first meta-analysis of the evaluation of mtDNA-cn in ASD/ADHD, our results show elevated mtDNA-cn in ASD and ADHD, further emphasizing the implication of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders. However, our results indicate that the mtDNA-cn in blood is not reflected in other tissues in ASD/ADHD, and the true relationship between blood-derived mtDNA-cn and ASD/ADHD remains to be defined in future studies. The importance of blood-cell compositions as confounders of blood-based mtDNA-cn measurement and the advantages of salivary mtDNA-cn should be considered in future studies. Moreover, the potential of mtDNA-cn as a biomarker for mitochondrial malfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders deserves further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Al-Kafaji
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Al-Jawhara Centre for Molecular Medicine, Genetics, and Inherited Disorders, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Haitham Ali Jahrami
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Government Hospital, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Materah Salem Alwehaidah
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Faculty of Allied Health, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Mariwan Husni
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Psychiatry, Northern Ontarion School of Medicine University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cieślik M, Zawadzka A, Czapski GA, Wilkaniec A, Adamczyk A. Developmental Stage-Dependent Changes in Mitochondrial Function in the Brain of Offspring Following Prenatal Maternal Immune Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087243. [PMID: 37108406 PMCID: PMC10138707 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) is an important risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. The aim of the current study was to investigate the development-dependent changes in the mitochondrial function of MIA-exposed offspring, which may contribute to autism-like deficits. MIA was evoked by the single intraperitoneal administration of lipopolysaccharide to pregnant rats at gestation day 9.5, and several aspects of mitochondrial function in fetuses and in the brains of seven-day-old pups and adolescent offspring were analyzed along with oxidative stress parameters measurement. It was found that MIA significantly increased the activity of NADPH oxidase (NOX), an enzyme generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the fetuses and in the brain of seven-day-old pups, but not in the adolescent offspring. Although a lower mitochondrial membrane potential accompanied by a decreased ATP level was already observed in the fetuses and in the brain of seven-day-old pups, persistent alterations of ROS, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and lower ATP generation with concomitant electron transport chain complexes downregulation were observed only in the adolescent offspring. We suggest that ROS observed in infancy are most likely of a NOX activity origin, whereas in adolescence, ROS are produced by damaged mitochondria. The accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria leads to the intense release of free radicals that trigger oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, resulting in an interlinked vicious cascade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Cieślik
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zawadzka
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz A Czapski
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Wilkaniec
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Adamczyk
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Błażewicz A, Grabrucker AM. Metal Profiles in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Crosstalk between Toxic and Essential Metals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010308. [PMID: 36613749 PMCID: PMC9820494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Since hundreds of years ago, metals have been recognized as impacting our body's physiology. As a result, they have been studied as a potential cure for many ailments as well as a cause of acute or chronic poisoning. However, the link between aberrant metal levels and neuropsychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), is a relatively new finding, despite some evident ASD-related consequences of shortage or excess of specific metals. In this review, we will summarize past and current results explaining the pathomechanisms of toxic metals at the cellular and molecular levels that are still not fully understood. While toxic metals may interfere with dozens of physiological processes concurrently, we will focus on ASD-relevant activity such as inflammation/immune activation, mitochondrial malfunction, increased oxidative stress, impairment of axonal myelination, and synapse formation and function. In particular, we will highlight the competition with essential metals that may explain why both the presence of certain toxic metals and the absence of certain essential metals have emerged as risk factors for ASD. Although often investigated separately, through the agonistic and antagonistic effects of metals, a common metal imbalance may result in relation to ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Błażewicz
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Interdisciplinary Applications of Ion Chromatography, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Andreas M. Grabrucker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-61-237756
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mahony C, O'Ryan C. A molecular framework for autistic experiences: Mitochondrial allostatic load as a mediator between autism and psychopathology. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:985713. [PMID: 36506457 PMCID: PMC9732262 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.985713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular autism research is evolving toward a biopsychosocial framework that is more informed by autistic experiences. In this context, research aims are moving away from correcting external autistic behaviors and toward alleviating internal distress. Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASCs) are associated with high rates of depression, suicidality and other comorbid psychopathologies, but this relationship is poorly understood. Here, we integrate emerging characterizations of internal autistic experiences within a molecular framework to yield insight into the prevalence of psychopathology in ASC. We demonstrate that descriptions of social camouflaging and autistic burnout resonate closely with the accepted definitions for early life stress (ELS) and chronic adolescent stress (CAS). We propose that social camouflaging could be considered a distinct form of CAS that contributes to allostatic overload, culminating in a pathophysiological state that is experienced as autistic burnout. Autistic burnout is thought to contribute to psychopathology via psychological and physiological mechanisms, but these remain largely unexplored by molecular researchers. Building on converging fields in molecular neuroscience, we discuss the substantial evidence implicating mitochondrial dysfunction in ASC to propose a novel role for mitochondrial allostatic load in the relationship between autism and psychopathology. An interplay between mitochondrial, neuroimmune and neuroendocrine signaling is increasingly implicated in stress-related psychopathologies, and these molecular players are also associated with neurodevelopmental, neurophysiological and neurochemical aspects of ASC. Together, this suggests an increased exposure and underlying molecular susceptibility to ELS that increases the risk of psychopathology in ASC. This article describes an integrative framework shaped by autistic experiences that highlights novel avenues for molecular research into mechanisms that directly affect the quality of life and wellbeing of autistic individuals. Moreover, this framework emphasizes the need for increased access to diagnoses, accommodations, and resources to improve mental health outcomes in autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Colleen O'Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lin TL, Lu CC, Chen TW, Huang CW, Lu JJ, Lai WF, Wu TS, Lai CH, Lai HC, Chen YL. Amelioration of Maternal Immune Activation-Induced Autism Relevant Behaviors by Gut Commensal Parabacteroides goldsteinii. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113070. [PMID: 36361859 PMCID: PMC9657948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by cognitive inflexibility and social deficits. Probiotics have been demonstrated to play a promising role in managing the severity of ASD. However, there are no effective probiotics for clinical use. Identifying new probiotic strains for ameliorating ASD is therefore essential. Using the maternal immune activation (MIA)-based offspring ASD-like mouse model, a probiotic-based intervention strategy was examined in female mice. The gut commensal microbe Parabacteroides goldsteinii MTS01, which was previously demonstrated to exert multiple beneficial effects on chronic inflammation-related-diseases, was evaluated. Prenatal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure induced leaky gut-related inflammatory phenotypes in the colon, increased LPS activity in sera, and induced autistic-like behaviors in offspring mice. By contrast, P. goldsteinii MTS01 treatment significantly reduced intestinal and systemic inflammation and ameliorated disease development. Transcriptomic analyses of MIA offspring indicated that in the intestine, P. goldsteinii MTS01 enhanced neuropeptide-related signaling and suppressed aberrant cell proliferation and inflammatory responses. In the hippocampus, P. goldsteinii MTS01 increased ribosomal/mitochondrial and antioxidant activities and decreased glutamate receptor signaling. Together, significant ameliorative effects of P. goldsteinii MTS01 on ASD relevant behaviors in MIA offspring were identified. Therefore, P. goldsteinii MTS01 could be developed as a next-generation probiotic for ameliorating ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Lung Lin
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Microbiota Research Center and Emerging Viral Infections Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Cha-Chen Lu
- Microbiota Research Center and Emerging Viral Infections Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Chest Medicine, Internal Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 24205, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 24205, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Wen Chen
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
- Center For Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-Devices (IDS2B), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Wei Huang
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Jang-Jih Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Internal Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Fan Lai
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Shu Wu
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ho Lai
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, Molecular Infectious Disease Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chih Lai
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Microbiota Research Center and Emerging Viral Infections Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Internal Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine and Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 33303, Taiwan
- Medical Research Center, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen 361028, China
- Correspondence: (H.-C.L.); (Y.-L.C.)
| | - Ya-Lei Chen
- Department of Biotechnology, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung 82446, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-C.L.); (Y.-L.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
The psychiatric risk gene BRD1 modulates mitochondrial bioenergetics by transcriptional regulation. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:319. [PMID: 35941107 PMCID: PMC9359996 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02053-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Bromodomain containing 1 (BRD1) encodes an epigenetic regulator that controls the expression of genetic networks linked to mental illness. BRD1 is essential for normal brain development and its role in psychopathology has been demonstrated in genetic and preclinical studies. However, the neurobiology that bridges its molecular and neuropathological effects remains poorly explored. Here, using publicly available datasets, we find that BRD1 targets nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins in cell lines and that modulation of BRD1 expression, irrespective of whether it is downregulation or upregulation of one or the other existing BRD1 isoforms (BRD1-L and BRD1-S), leads to distinct shifts in the expression profile of these genes. We further show that the expression of nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins is negatively correlated with the expression of BRD1 mRNA during human brain development. In accordance, we identify the key gate-keeper of mitochondrial metabolism, Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) among BRD1's co-transcription factors and provide evidence that BRD1 acts as a co-repressor of PPAR-mediated transcription. Lastly, when using quantitative PCR, mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probes, and the Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer, we demonstrate that modulation of BRD1 expression in cell lines alters mitochondrial physiology (mtDNA content and mitochondrial mass), metabolism (reducing power), and bioenergetics (among others, basal, maximal, and spare respiration) in an expression level- and isoform-dependent manner. Collectively, our data suggest that BRD1 is a transcriptional regulator of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins and that disruption of BRD1's genomic actions alters mitochondrial functions. This may be the mechanism underlying the cellular and atrophic changes of neurons previously associated with BRD1 deficiency and suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be a possible link between genetic variation in BRD1 and psychopathology in humans.
Collapse
|
12
|
Hassan WM, Al-Dbass A, Al-Ayadhi L, Bhat RS, El-Ansary A. Discriminant analysis and binary logistic regression enable more accurate prediction of autism spectrum disorder than principal component analysis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3764. [PMID: 35260688 PMCID: PMC8904630 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07829-6] [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: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and restricted, repetitive behavior. Multiple studies have suggested mitochondrial dysfunction, glutamate excitotoxicity, and impaired detoxification mechanism as accepted etiological mechanisms of ASD that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention. In the current study, blood samples were collected from 40 people with autism and 40 control participants after informed consent and full approval from the Institutional Review Board of King Saud University. Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), and mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I (MRC1) were measured in plasma of both groups. Predictive models were established to discriminate individuals with ASD from controls. The predictive power of these five variables, individually and in combination, was compared using the area under a ROC curve (AUC). We compared the performance of principal component analysis (PCA), discriminant analysis (DA), and binary logistic regression (BLR) as ways to combine single variables and create the predictive models. K+ had the highest AUC (0.801) of any single variable, followed by GST, LDH, Na+, and MRC1, respectively. Combining the five variables resulted in higher AUCs than those obtained using single variables across all models. Both DA and BLR were superior to PCA and comparable to each other. In our study, the combination of Na+, K+, LDH, GST, and MRC1 showed the highest promise in discriminating individuals with autism from controls. These results provide a platform that can potentially be used to verify the efficacy of our models with a larger sample size or evaluate other biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wail M Hassan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Abeer Al-Dbass
- Biochemistry Department, College of Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Biochemistry Department, College of Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. .,Central Research Laboratory, Female Centre for Scientific and Medical Studies, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Farrow E, Chiocchetti AG, Rogers JC, Pauli R, Raschle NM, Gonzalez-Madruga K, Smaragdi A, Martinelli A, Kohls G, Stadler C, Konrad K, Fairchild G, Freitag CM, Chechlacz M, De Brito SA. SLC25A24 gene methylation and gray matter volume in females with and without conduct disorder: an exploratory epigenetic neuroimaging study. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:492. [PMID: 34561420 PMCID: PMC8463588 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01609-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Conduct disorder (CD), a psychiatric disorder characterized by a repetitive pattern of antisocial behaviors, results from a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. The clinical presentation of CD varies both according to the individual's sex and level of callous-unemotional (CU) traits, but it remains unclear how genetic and environmental factors interact at the molecular level to produce these differences. Emerging evidence in males implicates methylation of genes associated with socio-affective processes. Here, we combined an epigenome-wide association study with structural neuroimaging in 51 females with CD and 59 typically developing (TD) females to examine DNA methylation in relation to CD, CU traits, and gray matter volume (GMV). We demonstrate an inverse pattern of correlation between CU traits and methylation of a chromosome 1 region in CD females (positive) as compared to TD females (negative). The identified region spans exon 1 of the SLC25A24 gene, central to energy metabolism due to its role in mitochondrial function. Increased SLC25A24 methylation was also related to lower GMV in multiple brain regions in the overall cohort. These included the superior frontal gyrus, prefrontal cortex, and supramarginal gyrus, secondary visual cortex and ventral posterior cingulate cortex, which are regions that have previously been implicated in CD and CU traits. While our findings are preliminary and need to be replicated in larger samples, they provide novel evidence that CU traits in females are associated with methylation levels in a fundamentally different way in CD and TD, which in turn may relate to observable variations in GMV across the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Farrow
- School of Psychology and Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Andreas G. Chiocchetti
- grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jack C. Rogers
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ruth Pauli
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology and Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nora M. Raschle
- grid.7400.30000 0004 1937 0650Jacobs Center for Productive Youth Development, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Anne Martinelli
- grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Gregor Kohls
- grid.1957.a0000 0001 0728 696XRWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Kerstin Konrad
- grid.1957.a0000 0001 0728 696XRWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Graeme Fairchild
- grid.7340.00000 0001 2162 1699Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Christine M. Freitag
- grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Magdalena Chechlacz
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology and Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stephane A. De Brito
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology and Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mahalaxmi I, Subramaniam MD, Gopalakrishnan AV, Vellingiri B. Dysfunction in Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain Complex I, Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Activity, and Mutations in ND1 and ND4 Gene in Autism Spectrum Disorder Subjects from Tamil Nadu Population, India. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:5303-5311. [PMID: 34279772 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02492-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by impaired social interaction and behavioural abnormalities. Growing evidence proved that impairment in mitochondrial functions could inhibit energy production and may contribute to the onset of ASD. Genetic variants in the genes of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) could interrupt the normal energy metabolism and production in the brain which lead to a wide range of structural and functional changes in the brain resulting in ASD. The present study aims to compare the activities of mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complex I, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and specific mitochondrial DNA gene (MT-ND1 and MT-ND4) variants associated with ASD subjects in the Tamil Nadu population. Mutational analysis revealed that most mutations in ASD subjects showed synonymous type followed by missense in both the ND1 and ND4 genes. Interestingly, we found that the complex I and PDH dysfunctions may have a role in ASD compared to the controls (p ≤ 0.0001). Hence, the results of the present study suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction, specifically the complex I genes, may play a major role in the onset of ASD, concluding that further research on mitochondrial genes are mandatory to unravel the mechanism behind ASD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iyer Mahalaxmi
- Livestock Farming and Bioresource Technology, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohana Devi Subramaniam
- SN ONGC, Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Vision Research Foundation, Chennai, 600-006, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, 632 014, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641-046, Tamil Nadu, India.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Al Malki JS, Hussien NA, Al Malki F. Maternal toxoplasmosis and the risk of childhood autism: serological and molecular small-scale studies. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:133. [PMID: 33731054 PMCID: PMC7968291 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02604-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasmosis resulting from infection with the Toxoplasma parasite has become an endemic disease worldwide. Recently, a few studies have reported a high prevalence of Toxoplasmosis infections among Saudi Arabian women. This disease could become life threatening for pregnant women and for immunodeficient people. There is evidence that infections during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Autism disorder represents one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders worldwide; it is associated with delayed language development, weak communication interaction, and repetitive behavior. The relationship between prenatal toxoplasmosis and autism in childhood remains unclear. The present study aims to report a link between maternal toxoplasmosis and autistic offspring among Saudi Arabian women. Method Blood samples (36 maternal, 36 from their non-autistic children, and 36 from their autistic children) were collected for serological and molecular evaluation. Results A toxoplasmosis infection was reported for 33.34% of participants using an ELISA assay (5.56% IgG+/IgM+, 11.11% IgG−/IgM+, and 16.67% IgG+/IgM-); however, a nested PCR assay targeting B1 toxoplasmosis specific genes recorded positive tests for 80.56% of the samples. In addition, the present study detected several points of mutation of mtDNA including NADH dehydrogenase (ND1, ND4) and Cyt B genes and the nDNA pyruvate kinase (PK) gene for autistic children infected with toxoplasmosis. Conclusion Considering previous assumptions, we suggest that a maternal toxoplasmosis infection could have a role in the development of childhood autism linked to mtDNA and nDNA impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamila S Al Malki
- Department of biology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahed Ahmed Hussien
- Department of biology, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Fuad Al Malki
- Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, P.O. Box 66, Almajmaah, 11952, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Gonzalez S. The Role of Mitonuclear Incompatibility in Bipolar Disorder Susceptibility and Resilience Against Environmental Stressors. Front Genet 2021; 12:636294. [PMID: 33815470 PMCID: PMC8010675 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.636294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been postulated that mitochondrial dysfunction has a significant role in the underlying pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD). Mitochondrial functioning plays an important role in regulating synaptic transmission, brain function, and cognition. Neuronal activity is energy dependent and neurons are particularly sensitive to changes in bioenergetic fluctuations, suggesting that mitochondria regulate fundamental aspects of brain function. Vigorous evidence supports the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the etiology of BD, including dysregulated oxidative phosphorylation, general decrease of energy, altered brain bioenergetics, co-morbidity with mitochondrial disorders, and association with genetic variants in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) or nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes. Despite these advances, the underlying etiology of mitochondrial dysfunction in BD is unclear. A plausible evolutionary explanation is that mitochondrial-nuclear (mitonuclear) incompatibility leads to a desynchronization of machinery required for efficient electron transport and cellular energy production. Approximately 1,200 genes, encoded from both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, are essential for mitochondrial function. Studies suggest that mitochondrial and nuclear genomes co-evolve, and the coordinated expression of these interacting gene products are essential for optimal organism function. Incompatibilities between mtDNA and nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes results in inefficiency in electron flow down the respiratory chain, differential oxidative phosphorylation efficiency, increased release of free radicals, altered intracellular Ca2+ signaling, and reduction of catalytic sites and ATP production. This review explores the role of mitonuclear incompatibility in BD susceptibility and resilience against environmental stressors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ahmed OG, Shehata GA, Ali RM, Makboul R, Abd Allah ESH, Abd El-Rady NM. Folic acid ameliorates neonatal isolation-induced autistic like behaviors in rats: epigenetic modifications of BDNF and GFAP promotors. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2021; 46:964-975. [PMID: 33635721 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2020-0923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated the role of epigenetic dysregulation of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) genes and oxidative stress as possible mechanisms of autistic-like behaviors in neonatal isolation model in rats and the impact of folic acid administration on these parameters. Forty Wistar albino pups were used as follows: control, folic acid administered, isolated, and isolated folic acid treated groups. Isolated pups were separated from their mothers for 90 min daily from postnatal day (PND) 1 to 11. Pups (isolated or control) received either the vehicle or folic acid (4 mg/kg/day) orally from PND 1 to 29. Behavioral tests were done from PND 30 to 35. Oxidative stress markers and antioxidant defense in the frontal cortex homogenate were determined. DNA methylation of BDNF and GFAP genes was determined by qPCR. Histopathological examination was carried out. Neonatal isolation produced autistic-like behaviors that were associated with BDNF and GFAP hypomethylation, increased oxidative stress, increased inflammatory cell infiltration, and structural changes in the frontal cortex. Folic acid administration concurrently with isolation reduced neonatal isolation-induced autistic-like behaviors, decreased oxidative stress, regained BDNF and GFAP gene methylation, and ameliorated structural changes in the frontal cortices of isolated folic acid treated rats. Novelty: Neonatal isolation induces "autistic-like" behavior and these behaviors are reversed by folic acid supplementation. Neonatal isolation induces DNA hypomethylation of BDNF and GFAP, increased oxidative stress markers, and neuroinflammation. All of these changes were reversed by daily folic acid supplementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omyma G Ahmed
- Medical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ghaydaa A Shehata
- Neurology and Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - Rasha M Ali
- Medical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Rania Makboul
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Eman S H Abd Allah
- Medical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Nessren M Abd El-Rady
- Medical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
FINSTERER J. Autism spectrum disorder: A mitochondrial disorder. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF CHILD NEUROLOGY 2021; 15:115-117. [PMID: 34782849 PMCID: PMC8570633 DOI: 10.22037/ijcn.v16i2.33066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
19
|
Yang X, Zhang R, Nakahira K, Gu Z. Mitochondrial DNA Mutation, Diseases, and Nutrient-Regulated Mitophagy. Annu Rev Nutr 2020; 39:201-226. [PMID: 31433742 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-nutr-082018-124643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A wide spectrum of human diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders, have been shown to be associated with mitochondrial dysfunction through multiple molecular mechanisms. Mitochondria are particularly susceptible to nutrient deficiencies, and nutritional intervention is an essential way to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis. Recent advances in genetic manipulation and next-generation sequencing reveal the crucial roles of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in various pathophysiological conditions. Mitophagy, a term coined to describe autophagy that targets dysfunctional mitochondria, has emerged as an important cellular process to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis and has been shown to be regulated by various nutrients and nutritional stresses. Given the high prevalence of mtDNA mutations in humans and their impact on mitochondrial function, it is important to investigate the mechanisms that regulate mtDNA mutation. Here, we discuss mitochondrial genetics and mtDNA mutations and their implications for human diseases. We also examine the role of mitophagy as a therapeutic target, highlighting how nutrients may eliminate mtDNA mutations through mitophagy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Yang
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA; , ,
| | - Ruoyu Zhang
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA; , ,
| | - Kiichi Nakahira
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Zhenglong Gu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA; , ,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Citrigno L, Muglia M, Qualtieri A, Spadafora P, Cavalcanti F, Pioggia G, Cerasa A. The Mitochondrial Dysfunction Hypothesis in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165785. [PMID: 32806635 PMCID: PMC7461038 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) constitute a set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions, characterized by a wide genetic variability that has led to hypothesize a polygenic origin. The metabolic profiles of patients with ASD suggest a possible implication of mitochondrial pathways. Although different physiological and biochemical studies reported deficits in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in subjects with ASD, the role of mitochondrial DNA variations has remained relatively unexplored. In this review, we report and discuss very recent evidence to demonstrate the key role of mitochondrial disorders in the development of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Citrigno
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Maria Muglia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Antonio Qualtieri
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Patrizia Spadafora
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesca Cavalcanti
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 98164 Messina, Italy;
| | - Antonio Cerasa
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
- S’Anna Institute and Research in Advanced Neurorehabilitation (RAN), 88100 Crotone, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-333-9633511
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Genovese A, Butler MG. Clinical Assessment, Genetics, and Treatment Approaches in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4726. [PMID: 32630718 PMCID: PMC7369758 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) consists of a genetically heterogenous group of neurobehavioral disorders characterized by impairment in three behavioral domains including communication, social interaction, and stereotypic repetitive behaviors. ASD affects more than 1% of children in Western societies, with diagnoses on the rise due to improved recognition, screening, clinical assessment, and diagnostic testing. We reviewed the role of genetic and metabolic factors which contribute to the causation of ASD with the use of new genetic technology. Up to 40 percent of individuals with ASD are now diagnosed with genetic syndromes or have chromosomal abnormalities including small DNA deletions or duplications, single gene conditions, or gene variants and metabolic disturbances with mitochondrial dysfunction. Although the heritability estimate for ASD is between 70 and 90%, there is a lower molecular diagnostic yield than anticipated. A likely explanation may relate to multifactorial causation with etiological heterogeneity and hundreds of genes involved with a complex interplay between inheritance and environmental factors influenced by epigenetics and capabilities to identify causative genes and their variants for ASD. Behavioral and psychiatric correlates, diagnosis and genetic evaluation with testing are discussed along with psychiatric treatment approaches and pharmacogenetics for selection of medication to treat challenging behaviors or comorbidities commonly seen in ASD. We emphasize prioritizing treatment based on targeted symptoms for individuals with ASD, as treatment will vary from patient to patient based on diagnosis, comorbidities, causation, and symptom severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Merlin G. Butler
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ashitha SNM, Ramachandra NB. Integrated Functional Analysis Implicates Syndromic and Rare Copy Number Variation Genes as Prominent Molecular Players in Pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Neuroscience 2020; 438:25-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.04.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
23
|
Update on Atypicalities of Central Nervous System in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10050309. [PMID: 32443912 PMCID: PMC7287879 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10050309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous, behaviorally defined, neurodevelopmental disorder that has been modeled as a brain-based disease. The behavioral and cognitive features of ASD are associated with pervasive atypicalities in the central nervous system (CNS). To date, the exact mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of ASD still remain unknown and there is currently no cure or effective treatment for this disorder. Many publications implicated the association of ASD with inflammation, immune dysregulation, neurotransmission dysfunction, mitochondrial impairment and cell signaling dysregulation. This review attempts to highlight evidence of the major pathophysiology of ASD including abnormalities in the brain structure and function, neuroglial activation and neuroinflammation, glutamatergic neurotransmission, mitochondrial dysfunction and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway dysregulation. Molecular and cellular factors that contributed to the pathogenesis of ASD and how they may affect the development and function of CNS are compiled in this review. However, findings of published studies have been complicated by the fact that autism is a very heterogeneous disorder; hence, we addressed the limitations that led to discrepancies in the reported findings. This review emphasizes the need for future studies to control study variables such as sample size, gender, age range and intelligence quotient (IQ), all of which that could affect the study measurements. Neuroinflammation or immune dysregulation, microglial activation, genetically linked neurotransmission, mitochondrial dysfunctions and mTOR signaling pathway could be the primary targets for treating and preventing ASD. Further research is required to better understand the molecular causes and how they may contribute to the pathophysiology of ASD.
Collapse
|
24
|
Larijani B, Foroughi Heravani N, Alavi-Moghadam S, Goodarzi P, Rezaei-Tavirani M, Payab M, Gholami M, Razi F, Arjmand B. Cell Therapy Targets for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Hopes, Challenges and Future Directions. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1341:107-124. [PMID: 32072476 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders as a group of pediatric neurodevelopmental diseases is a crucial part of the worldwide disabilities which have influence in communication skills, social interactions, and ability to understand the concepts. The precise pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders due to the abundance of involved mechanisms is unknown. Some of these involved mechanisms are related to genetic factors, chronic neuro inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, hormonal imbalance, and environmental factors. Current main treatments for autisms are behavioral, nutritional and medical therapies, however there is not definitive treatment approach. Therein, more novel therapies are still required to improve the symptoms. Several preclinical and clinical evidence were shown that stem cell therapy is a potential treatment option for autism spectrum disorders individuals. Considering the significant factors which can affect the outcome of stem cell therapeutic effects including stem cell types, route and dosage of administration, and mechanism of activity along with selecting best animal models can be very important in performing clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Najmeh Foroughi Heravani
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Alavi-Moghadam
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Goodarzi
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Moloud Payab
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Gholami
- Department of Toxicology & Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy; Toxicology and Poisoning Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farideh Razi
- Diabetes Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Siences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Metabolomics and Genomics Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
New Horizons for Molecular Genetics Diagnostic and Research in Autism Spectrum Disorder. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:43-81. [PMID: 32006356 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heritable, heterogeneous, and complex pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder (PND) characterized by distinctive abnormalities of human cognitive functions, social interaction, and speech development.Nowadays, several genetic changes including chromosome abnormalities, genetic variations, transcriptional epigenetics, and noncoding RNA have been identified in ASD. However, the association between these genetic modifications and ASDs has not been confirmed yet.The aim of this review is to summarize the key findings in ASD from genetic viewpoint that have been identified from the last few decades of genetic and molecular research.
Collapse
|
26
|
Castora FJ. Mitochondrial function and abnormalities implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 92:83-108. [PMID: 30599156 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are the powerhouse that generate over 90% of the ATP produced in cells. In addition to its role in energy production, the mitochondrion also plays a major role in carbohydrate, fatty acid, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, programmed cell death (apoptosis), generation of and protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS), immune response, regulation of intracellular calcium ion levels and even maintenance of gut microbiota. With its essential role in bio-energetic as well as non-energetic biological processes, it is not surprising that proper cellular, tissue and organ function is dependent upon proper mitochondrial function. Accordingly, mitochondrial dysfunction has been shown to be directly linked to a variety of medical disorders, particularly neuromuscular disorders and increasing evidence has linked mitochondrial dysfunction to neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Parkinson's Disease (PD), Rett Syndrome (RS) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Over the last 40 years there has been a dramatic increase in the diagnosis of ASD and, more recently, an increasing body of evidence indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in ASD development. In this review, the latest evidence linking mitochondrial dysfunction and abnormalities in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to the pathogenesis of autism will be presented. This review will also summarize the results of several recent `approaches used for improving mitochondrial function that may lead to new therapeutic approaches to managing and/or treating ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank J Castora
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Department of Neurology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|