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Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Elbeltagi R. Metabolomic changes in children with autism. World J Clin Pediatr 2024; 13:92737. [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.
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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
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Lin P, Zhang Q, Sun J, Li Q, Li D, Zhu M, Fu X, Zhao L, Wang M, Lou X, Chen Q, Liang K, Zhu Y, Qu C, Li Z, Ma P, Wang R, Liu H, Dong K, Guo X, Cheng X, Sun Y, Sun J. A comparison between children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and healthy controls in biomedical factors, trace elements, and microbiota biomarkers: a meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1318637. [PMID: 38283894 PMCID: PMC10813399 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1318637] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted developmental condition that commonly appears during early childhood. The etiology of ASD remains multifactorial and not yet fully understood. The identification of biomarkers may provide insights into the underlying mechanisms and pathophysiology of the disorder. The present study aimed to explore the causes of ASD by investigating the key biomedical markers, trace elements, and microbiota factors between children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and control subjects. Methods Medline, PubMed, ProQuest, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and EMBSCO databases have been searched for publications from 2012 to 2023 with no language restrictions using the population, intervention, control, and outcome (PICO) approach. Keywords including "autism spectrum disorder," "oxytocin," "GABA," "Serotonin," "CRP," "IL-6," "Fe," "Zn," "Cu," and "gut microbiota" were used for the search. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist was used to assess the article quality, and a random model was used to assess the mean difference and standardized difference between ASD and the control group in all biomedical markers, trace elements, and microbiota factors. Results From 76,217 records, 43 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled analyses showed that children with ASD had significantly lower levels of oxytocin (mean differences, MD = -45.691, 95% confidence interval, CI: -61.667, -29.717), iron (MD = -3.203, 95% CI: -4.891, -1.514), and zinc (MD = -6.707, 95% CI: -12.691, -0.722), lower relative abundance of Bifidobacterium (MD = -1.321, 95% CI: -2.403, -0.238) and Parabacteroides (MD = -0.081, 95% CI: -0.148, -0.013), higher levels of c-reactive protein, CRP (MD = 0.401, 95% CI: 0.036, 0.772), and GABA (MD = 0.115, 95% CI: 0.045, 0.186), and higher relative abundance of Bacteroides (MD = 1.386, 95% CI: 0.717, 2.055) and Clostridium (MD = 0.281, 95% CI: 0.035, 0.526) when compared with controls. The results of the overall analyses were stable after performing the sensitivity analyses. Additionally, no substantial publication bias was observed among the studies. Interpretation Children with ASD have significantly higher levels of CRP and GABA, lower levels of oxytocin, iron, and zinc, lower relative abundance of Bifidobacterium and Parabacteroides, and higher relative abundance of Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, and Clostridium when compared with controls. These results suggest that these indicators may be a potential biomarker panel for the diagnosis or determining therapeutic targets of ASD. Furthermore, large, sample-based, and randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Lin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianwen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Digital Technology in Medical Diagnostics of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Hangzhou Calibra Diagnostics, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junyu Sun
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Qingtian Li
- College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyuan Zhu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomei Fu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengxia Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyan Lou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kangyi Liang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuxin Zhu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Caiwei Qu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenhua Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peijun Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Renyu Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huafen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Digital Technology in Medical Diagnostics of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- Hangzhou Calibra Diagnostics, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Institute for Global Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaokui Guo
- Institute for Global Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xunjia Cheng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Sun
- Institute of Arthritis Research, Shanghai Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Sun
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute for Integrated Intelligence and Systems, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Charles Sturt University, Orange, NSW, Australia
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Lin J, Costa MA, Rezende VL, Nascimento RR, Ambrósio PG, Madeira K, Pearson DA, Gonçalves CL. Risk factors and clinical profile of autism spectrum disorder in southern Brazil. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 169:105-112. [PMID: 38011818 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
In Brazil, as in other countries, it is expected a significant variation of epidemiological and clinical characteristics among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study was performed to explore maternal risk factors and clinical characteristics of children with ASD in a population located in southern Brazil. Data were collected from medical records and analyzed to explore biomarkers associated with ASD. Out of 321 children with ASD, 86.5% were males with a male-to-female ratio of 5.7:1, 50.7% were mild/moderate while 49.3% presented severe ASD. Between the risk factors investigated, gestational infection was significantly associated with severe ASD patients. There was also an association between epilepsy and severe autism. Several gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms were significantly associated with severe ASD. Obesity, followed by lower levels of cholesterol, were also significant factors associated with an ASD diagnosis when compared to age-matched controls. Finally, severe ASD was associated with significantly higher serum serotonin levels when compared to age-matched controls and mild/moderate ASD cases. Our findings demonstrate that our population shares many features associated with ASD around the world, such as GI symptoms, epilepsy, and high serotonin levels. It is worth highlighting the low cholesterol levels associated with obesity as an unusual feature that deserves more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Lin
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Maiara A Costa
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Victória L Rezende
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Rosiane R Nascimento
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Pedro Gabriel Ambrósio
- Laboratory of Applied Research in Computing and Quantitative Methods, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Kristian Madeira
- Laboratory of Applied Research in Computing and Quantitative Methods, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Deborah A Pearson
- McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Cinara L Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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Yurdakul E, Barlas Y, Ulgen KO. Circadian clock crosstalks with autism. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3273. [PMID: 37807632 PMCID: PMC10726833 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism underlying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains incompletely understood, but researchers have identified over a thousand genes involved in complex interactions within the brain, nervous, and immune systems, particularly during the mechanism of brain development. Various contributory environmental effects including circadian rhythm have also been studied in ASD. Thus, capturing the global picture of the ASD-clock network in combined form is critical. METHODS We reconstructed the protein-protein interaction network of ASD and circadian rhythm to understand the connection between autism and the circadian clock. A graph theoretical study is undertaken to evaluate whether the network attributes are biologically realistic. The gene ontology enrichment analyses provide information about the most important biological processes. RESULTS This study takes a fresh look at metabolic mechanisms and the identification of potential key proteins/pathways (ribosome biogenesis, oxidative stress, insulin/IGF pathway, Wnt pathway, and mTOR pathway), as well as the effects of specific conditions (such as maternal stress or disruption of circadian rhythm) on the development of ASD due to environmental factors. CONCLUSION Understanding the relationship between circadian rhythm and ASD provides insight into the involvement of these essential pathways in the pathogenesis/etiology of ASD, as well as potential early intervention options and chronotherapeutic strategies for treating or preventing the neurodevelopmental disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekin Yurdakul
- Department of Chemical EngineeringBogazici University, Biosystems Engineering LaboratoryIstanbulTurkey
| | - Yaman Barlas
- Department of Industrial EngineeringBogazici University, Socio‐Economic System Dynamics Research Group (SESDYN)IstanbulTurkey
| | - Kutlu O. Ulgen
- Department of Chemical EngineeringBogazici University, Biosystems Engineering LaboratoryIstanbulTurkey
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Pearson DA, Hendren RL, Heil MF, McIntyre WR, Raines SR. Pancreatic Replacement Therapy for Maladaptive Behaviors in Preschool Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2344136. [PMID: 38032645 PMCID: PMC10690476 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.44136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance There is an urgent unmet need for a treatment addressing the core symptoms and associated maladaptive symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), especially in preschool populations. Objectives To evaluate whether treatment of children with ASD aged 3 to 6 years treated with high-protease pancreatic therapy produces long- and short-term improvements in autism-associated maladaptive behaviors. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study at 32 sites across the US used a double-blind parallel group, delayed-start design comprising a 2-week blinded placebo run-in, and a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled segment (12 weeks). Children were recruited into the study in 2015, with data collection continuing until 2021. The analyses were completed from June 2021 to February 2022. Interventions All participants were randomly assigned to receive either 900 mg high-protease pancreatic replacement therapy or placebo with food 3 times a day for 12 weeks, followed by all receiving 900 mg high-protease pancreatic replacement therapy for 24 weeks. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the irritability/agitation subscale of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC-I). All potential participants were screened using the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) with diagnosis confirmed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition, Text Revision) for ASD and the Autism Diagnostic Inventory-Revised (ADI-R). Outcomes were measured at the conclusion of the 12-week double-blind segment and at the conclusion of the 24-week open-label segment (total 36 weeks). Results A total of 190 participants (150 male [79%]), aged 3 to 6 (mean [SD] age, 4.5 [0.8]) years were randomized. Mixed model for repeated measures analysis performed on ABC-I demonstrated statistically significant differences of -2.49 (95% CI, -4.66 to -0.32; Cohen d = 0.364; P = .03) at the 12-week timepoint and -3.07 (95% CI, -5.81 to -0.33; Cohen d = 0.516; P = .03) at 36-week timepoint. No convergence was noted. Our high-protease pancreatic replacement (CM-AT) was well tolerated with no emergent safety concerns or related serious adverse events noted. Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study of preschool children sustained cumulative reduction in the maladaptive behavior of irritability in autism. This delayed-start analysis, used to demonstrate disease and condition modification, may prove to be an important tool to evaluate treatments for ASD. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02410902 and NCT02649959.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A. Pearson
- Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert L. Hendren
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Weill Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
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Tizabi Y, Bennani S, El Kouhen N, Getachew B, Aschner M. Interaction of Heavy Metal Lead with Gut Microbiota: Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1549. [PMID: 37892231 PMCID: PMC10605213 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social interaction and communication, manifests in early childhood and is followed by restricted and stereotyped behaviors, interests, or activities in adolescence and adulthood (DSM-V). Although genetics and environmental factors have been implicated, the exact causes of ASD have yet to be fully characterized. New evidence suggests that dysbiosis or perturbation in gut microbiota (GM) and exposure to lead (Pb) may play important roles in ASD etiology. Pb is a toxic heavy metal that has been linked to a wide range of negative health outcomes, including anemia, encephalopathy, gastroenteric diseases, and, more importantly, cognitive and behavioral problems inherent to ASD. Pb exposure can disrupt GM, which is essential for maintaining overall health. GM, consisting of trillions of microorganisms, has been shown to play a crucial role in the development of various physiological and psychological functions. GM interacts with the brain in a bidirectional manner referred to as the "Gut-Brain Axis (GBA)". In this review, following a general overview of ASD and GM, the interaction of Pb with GM in the context of ASD is emphasized. The potential exploitation of this interaction for therapeutic purposes is also touched upon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Tizabi
- Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Samia Bennani
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20100, Morocco
| | - Nacer El Kouhen
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20100, Morocco
| | - Bruk Getachew
- Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
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Lin F, Wang X, Luo R, Yuan B, Ye S, Yang T, Xiao L, Chen J. Maternal LPS Exposure Enhances the 5-HT Level in the Prefrontal Cortex of Autism-like Young Offspring. Brain Sci 2023; 13:958. [PMID: 37371436 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060958] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by reduced social interactions, impaired communication, and stereotyped behavior. The aim of this research is to investigate the changes in serotonin (5-HT) in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) of autism-like offspring induced by maternal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with LPS to establish an autism-like model in their offspring. Offspring prenatally exposed to LPS showed autism-like behavior. The serotonin level in the mPFC of 2-week-old offspring was noticeably increased after maternal LPS exposure. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in pathways related to tryptophan metabolism and the serotonin system, as shown in RNA-seq findings. Consistently, tryptophan and serotonin metabolisms were altered in 2-week-old LPS-exposed offspring. The mRNA expression levels of 5-HT catabolic enzymes were remarkably reduced or tended to decrease. Moreover, maternal LPS exposure resulted in a higher serotonin 1B receptor (5-HT1BR) expression level in the mPFC but no difference in tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) or serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT). The concentrations of 5-HT in serum and colon were increased in LPS-exposed offspring. Meanwhile, the expression level of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) in the colon was increased after maternal LPS treatment, whereas SERT was reduced. Furthermore, Golgi-Cox staining showed that neuronal dendritic length and spine density were significantly reduced in the mPFC of LPS-exposed offspring. The current study reveals that maternal LPS treatment resulted in an exaltation of the 5-HT of mPFC in ASD-like young rats, which may partly be caused by the abnormal elevation of 5-HT metabolism in its colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Lin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Ruifang Luo
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Binlin Yuan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Shasha Ye
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Lu Xiao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Childhood Nutrition and Health, Children's Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400015, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing 400015, China
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Coskunpinar EM, Tur S, Cevher Binici N, Yazan Songür C. Association of GABRG3, GABRB3, HTR2A Gene Variants with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Gene 2023; 870:147399. [PMID: 37019319 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental and neurobehavioral disorder characterized by impaired social communication, repetitive and restricted patterns of behavior, activity, or interest, and altered emotional processing. Reported prevalence is 4 times higher in men and it has increased in recent years. Immunological, environmental, epigenetic, and genetic factors play a role in the pathophysiology of autism. Many neurochemical pathways and neuroanatomical events are effective in determining the disease. It is still unclear how the main symptoms of autism occur because of this complex and heterogeneous situation. In this study, we focused on gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) and serotonin, which are thought to contribute to the etiology of autism; it is aimed to elucidate the mechanism of the disease by investigating variant changes in the GABA receptor subunit genes GABRB3, GABRG3 and the HTR2A gene, which encodes one of the serotonin receptors. 200 patients with ASD between the ages of 3-9 and 100 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Genomic DNA isolation was performed from peripheral blood samples taken from volunteers. Genotyping was performed using the RFLP method with PCR specific for specific variants. Data were analyzed with SPSS v25.0 program. According to the data obtained in our study; In terms of HTR2A (rs6313 T102C) genotypes, the homozygous C genotype carrying frequency in the patient group and the homozygous T genotype carrying frequency in the GABRG3 (rs140679 C/T) genotypes were found to be significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group (*p: 0.0001, p: 0.0001). It was determined that the frequency of individuals with homozygous genotype was significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group and having homozygous genotypes increased the disease risk approximately 1.8 times. In terms of GABRB3 (rs2081648 T/C) genotypes, it was determined that there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of carrying homozygous C genotype in the patient group compared to the control group (p: 0.36). According to the results of our study, we think that the HTR2A (rs6313 T102C) polymorphism is effective in modulating the empathic and autistic characteristics of individuals, and that the HTR2A (rs6313 T102C) polymorphism is more distributed in the post-synaptic membranes in individuals with a higher number of C alleles. We believe that this situation can be attributed to the spontaneous stimulatory distribution of the HTR2A gene in the postsynaptic membranes because of T102C transformation. In genetically based autism cases, carrying the point mutation in the rs6313 variant of the HTR2A gene and the C allele and the point mutation in the rs140679 variant of the GABRG3 gene and accordingly carrying the T allele provide a predisposition to the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ender M Coskunpinar
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Turkey.
| | - Seymanur Tur
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Turkey.
| | - Nagihan Cevher Binici
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Dr. Behcet Uz Child Disease and Pediatric Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Cisel Yazan Songür
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences Dr. Behcet Uz Child Disease and Pediatric Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey.
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Bokobza C, Jacquens A, Guenoun D, Bianco B, Galland A, Pispisa M, Cruz A, Zinni M, Faivre V, Roumier A, Lebon S, Vitalis T, Csaba Z, Le Charpentier T, Schwendimann L, Young-Ten P, Degos V, Monteiro P, Dournaud P, Gressens P, Van Steenwinckel J. Targeting the brain 5-HT7 receptor to prevent hypomyelination in a rodent model of perinatal white matter injuries. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2023; 130:281-297. [PMID: 36335540 PMCID: PMC10033587 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02556-8] [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: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 15 million babies are born prematurely every year and many will face lifetime motor and/or cognitive deficits. Children born prematurely are at higher risk of developing perinatal brain lesions, especially white matter injuries (WMI). Evidence in humans and rodents demonstrates that systemic inflammation-induced neuroinflammation, including microglial and astrocyte reactivity, is the prominent processes of WMI associated with preterm birth. Thus, a new challenge in the field of perinatal brain injuries is to develop new neuroprotective strategies to target neuroinflammation to prevent WMI. Serotonin (5-HT) and its receptors play an important role in inflammation, and emerging evidence indicates that 5-HT may regulate brain inflammation by the modulation of microglial reactivity and astrocyte functions. The present study is based on a mouse model of WMI induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of IL-1β during the first 5 days of life. In this model, certain key lesions of preterm brain injuries can be summarized by (i) systemic inflammation, (ii) pro-inflammatory microglial and astrocyte activation, and (iii) inhibition of oligodendrocyte maturation, leading to hypomyelination. We demonstrate that Htr7 mRNA (coding for the HTR7/5-HT7 receptor) is significantly overexpressed in the anterior cortex of IL-1β-exposed animals, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target. LP-211 is a specific high-affinity HTR7 agonist that crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB). When co-injected with IL-1β, LP-211 treatment prevented glial reactivity, the down-regulation of myelin-associated proteins, and the apparition of anxiety-like phenotypes. Thus, HTR7 may represent an innovative therapeutic target to protect the developing brain from preterm brain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Bokobza
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France.
| | - Alice Jacquens
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, APHP-Sorbonne University, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - David Guenoun
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
- Department of Pharmacy, APHP, Hôpital Robert Debré, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Blandine Bianco
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Anne Galland
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Maxime Pispisa
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Cruz
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Manuela Zinni
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Faivre
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Anne Roumier
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR-S 1270, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Lebon
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Tania Vitalis
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Zsolt Csaba
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Vincent Degos
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, APHP-Sorbonne University, Hôpital La Pitié- Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Patricia Monteiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Pascal Dournaud
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Gressens
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, NeuroDiderot, 75019, Paris, France
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Erdogan MA, Bozkurt MF, Erbas O. Effects of prenatal testosterone exposure on the development of autism-like behaviours in offspring of Wistar rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2022; 83:201-215. [PMID: 36573444 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10248] [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: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A neurodevelopmental disease, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) occurs in males three times more commonly than girls. Higher prenatal testosterone exposure may result in autistic-like behaviour in boys, according to earlier research. It is unclear how fetal testosterone affects the development of autism. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal testosterone exposure in an animal model may result in autistic behaviours by modifying serotonin, dopamine, IGF-1 and oxytocin levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS Group 1 (control, n = 6) and Group 2 (testosterone undecanoate, n = 6) of female rats were randomly assigned. For 2-3 days during the oestrus cycle, female rats were housed with a reproductive male (three females/one male). On the 10th day of gestation, rats in Group 1 received 1 ml/kg% 0.9 NaCl saline, whereas rats in Group 2 received 250 mg/kg testosterone undecanoate. Until weaning on postnatal day 21 (P21), the mothers were permitted to care for their pups. On P21, 40 littermates-10 male and female for control and 10 male and female from mothers that exposed to testosterone-were arbitrarily split up and housed. On P50, these mature rats were tested for their behaviour. The rats were then sacrificed. The brain tissue was subjected to histological examinations as well as biochemical tests for homovanillic acid (HVA), 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), oxytocin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). RESULTS The groups differed significantly in the behavioural examinations (three-chamber social test, passive avoidance learning analysis, open field test), with the testosterone-exposed groups exhibiting autistic symptoms to a higher extent. When compared with the control groups, testosterone exposure caused significant histological changes in the hippocampus CA1 and CA3 areas, including gliosis and cell death of neurons. In the testosterone-exposed groups, HVA, 5-HIAA and IGF-1 tissue expressions in the brain elevated, whereas oxytocin levels reduced. These findings point to a potential connection between neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD and exposure to testosterone during gestation. CONCLUSION Overall, we revealed that prenatal testosterone exposure led to autistic traits by elevating serotonin, dopamine and IGF-1 levels while lowering oxytocin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mumin Alper Erdogan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Fatih Bozkurt
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Afyon Kocatepe University, Afyon, Turkey
| | - Oytun Erbas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul, Turkey
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11
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Bhalla S, Mehan S. 4-hydroxyisoleucine mediated IGF-1/GLP-1 signalling activation prevents propionic acid-induced autism-like behavioural phenotypes and neurochemical defects in experimental rats. Neuropeptides 2022; 96:102296. [PMID: 36307249 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2022.102296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by a neurotransmitter imbalance that impairs neurodevelopment processes. Autism development is marked by communication difficulties, poor socio-emotional health, and cognitive impairment. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and glucagon-like growth factor-1 (GLP-1) are responsible for regular neuronal growth and homeostasis. Autism progression has been linked to dysregulation of IGF-1/GLP-1 signalling. 4-hydroxyisoleucine (HI), a pharmacologically active amino acid produced from Trigonella foenum graecum, works as an insulin mimic and has neuroprotective properties. The GLP-1 analogue liraglutide (LRG) was employed in our investigation to compare the efficacy of 4-HI in autism prevention. The current study explores the protective effects of 4-HI 50 and 100 mg/kg orally on IGF-1/GLP-1 signalling activation in a PPA-induced experimental model of autism. Propionic acid (PPA) injections to rats by intracerebroventricular (ICV) route for the first 11 days of the experiment resulted in autism-like neurobehavioral, neurochemical, gross morphological, and histopathological abnormalities. In addition, we investigated the dose-dependent neuroprotective effects of 4-HI on the levels of several neurotransmitters and neuroinflammatory cytokines in rat brain homogenate and blood plasma. Neuronal apoptotic and anti-oxidant cellular markers were also studied in blood plasma and brain homogenate samples. Furthermore, the luxol fast blue (LFB) staining results demonstrated significant demyelination in the brains of PPA-induced rats reversed by 4-HI treatment. Rats were assessed for spontaneous locomotor impairments, neuromuscular coordination, stress-like behaviour, learning, and memory to assess neurobehavioral abnormalities. The administration of 4-HI and LRG significantly reversed the behavioural, gross and histological abnormalities in the PPA-treated rat brains. After treatment with 4-HI and LRG, LFB-stained photomicrographs of PPA-treated rats' brains demonstrated the recovery of white matter loss. Our findings indicate that 4-HI protects neurons in rats with autism by enhancing the IGF-1 and GLP-1 protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonalika Bhalla
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India.
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12
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Fabio MC, Servin-Bernal IJC, Degano AL, Pautassi RM. Serotonin disruption at gestation alters expression of genes associated with serotonin synthesis and reuptake at weaning. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3355-3366. [PMID: 36063206 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06228-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Serotonin (5-HT) is a monoamine neuromodulator that plays a key role in the organization of the central nervous system. 5-HT alterations may be associated to the emergence of social deficits and psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse disorders. Notably, disruption of the 5-HT system during sensitive periods of development seems to exert long-term consequences, including altered anxiety responses and problematic use of alcohol. OBJECTIVE We analyzed, in mice, the effects of transient 5-HT depletion at gestation (a developmental stage when medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) 5-HT levels depend exclusively on placental 5-HT availability) on 5-HT central synthesis and reuptake at weaning. We also explored if 5-HT disruption at the embryonic stage influences behavioral outcomes that may serve as a proxy for autistic- or anxiety-like phenotypes. METHODS C57/BL6 male and female mice, born from dams treated with a 5-HT synthesis inhibitor (PCPA; 4-Chloro-DL-phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride) at gestational days (G)13.5-16.5, were subjected to a behavioral battery that assesses social preference and novelty, compulsive behavior, stereotypies, and ethanol's anti-anxiety effects, at postnatal days (P) 21-28. Afterwards, expression of the genes that encode for 5-HT synthesis (Tph2) and SERT (5-HT transporter) were analyzed in mPFC via real-time RT-PCR. Dopamine 2 receptor (D2R) expression was also analyzed via RT-PCR to further explore possible effects of PCPA on dopaminergic transmission. RESULTS Transient 5-HT disruption at G13.5-16.5 reduced Tph2 expression of both male and female mice in mPFC at P23. Notably, female mice also exhibited higher SERT expression and reduced D2R expression in mPFC. Mice derived from 5-HT depleted dams displayed heightened compulsive behavior at P21, when compared to control mice. Alcohol anti-anxiety effects at early adolescence (P28) were exhibited by mice derived from 5-HT depleted dams, but not by control counterparts. No social deficits or stereotyped behaviors were observed. CONCLUSION Transient 5-HT inhibition at gestation resulted in altered expression of genes involved in 5-HT synthesis and reuptake in mPFC at weaning, a period in which the 5-HT system is still developing. These alterations may exert lingering effects, which translate to significant compulsivity and heightened sensitivity to the anxiolytic effects of alcohol at early adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Fabio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra (INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Cordoba, Argentina. .,Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Cordoba, Argentina.
| | - I J C Servin-Bernal
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra (INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Cordoba, Argentina
| | - A L Degano
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel CaputtoFacultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Cordoba, Argentina.,Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC), CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Cordoba, Argentina
| | - R M Pautassi
- Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra (INIMEC-CONICET-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Cordoba, Argentina.,Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Cordoba, Argentina
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Nemet S, Asher I, Yoles I, Baevsky T, Sthoeger Z. Early childhood allergy linked with development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2022; 33:10.1111/pai.13819. [PMID: 35754118 PMCID: PMC9328193 DOI: 10.1111/pai.13819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies reported controversial results regarding the association between allergic disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)/autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of this article was to investigate whether allergic disorders are associated with ADHD/ASD in a large cohort of pediatric patients. METHODS A retrospective study using the pediatric (0-18 year) database (ICD-9-CM codes) of Clalit Health Services during the years (2000-2018). Diagnosis of all disorders was made by specialist physicians. RESULTS A total of 117 022 consecutive non-selective allergic children diagnosed with one or more allergic disorder (asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, skin, food, or drug allergy) and 116 968 non-allergic children were enrolled to our study. The mean follow-up period was 11 ± 6 years. The presence of allergic disorders in early childhood (mean age of allergic diagnosis 4.5 ± 4.3 years) in boys as well as in girls significantly increased the risk to develop ADHD (O.R 2.45, CI 2.39-2.51; p < .0001), ASD (O.R 1.17, CI 1.08-1.27; p < .0001), or both ADHD + ASD (O.R 1.5, CI 1.35-1.79; p < .0001). Children with more than one allergic comorbidity revealed a much higher risk. In a multivariable analysis (adjusted for age at study entry, number of yearly visits, and gender), the risk of allergic children to develop ADHD and ADHD + ASD, but not ASD alone, remained significantly higher. CONCLUSION Allergic disorder in early childhood significantly increased the risk to develop ADHD, and to a less extend ASD, in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shay Nemet
- Clinical Immunology Allergy and AIDS Center, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ilan Asher
- Clinical Immunology Allergy and AIDS Center, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | - Zev Sthoeger
- Clinical Immunology Allergy and AIDS Center, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel
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14
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Wang J, Huang H, Liu C, Zhang Y, Wang W, Zou Z, Yang L, He X, Wu J, Ma J, Liu Y. Research Progress on the Role of Vitamin D in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:859151. [PMID: 35619598 PMCID: PMC9128593 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.859151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can lead to severe social behavioral difficulties, which mainly manifests as social communication and interaction disorders; narrow interests; and repetitive, stereotyped behaviors. In recent years, the prevalence of ASD has increased annually, and it has evolved from a rare disease to one with a high incidence among childhood developmental disorders. The pathogenesis of ASD is considered to be the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. There is increasing evidence that vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy and early childhood can lead to the occurrence of ASD. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin D intervention can significantly improve the symptoms of ASD, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, exploring the neuroprotective mechanism of vitamin D against ASD is a huge challenge currently being worked on by current basic and clinical researchers, a task which is of great significance for the clinical promotion and optimization of vitamin D in the treatment of ASD. To further clarify the relationship between vitamin D and ASD, this review summarizes the correlation between vitamin D level and ASD, the effects of vitamin D supplementation on ASD, the possible mechanism of vitamin D involved in ASD, and insights from ASD animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Haoyu Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Chunming Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Yangping Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhuo Zou
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Xuemei He
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Jinting Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Ma,
| | - Yun Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Yunnan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Ma,
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Whole-Transcriptome Analysis of Serum L1CAM-Captured Extracellular Vesicles Reveals Neural and Glycosylation Changes in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1274-1292. [PMID: 35412111 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-01994-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is not fully understood and there are no diagnostic or predictive biomarkers. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived nano-sized vesicles, carrying nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and other bioactive substances. As reported, serum neural cell adhesion molecule L1 (L1CAM)-captured EVs (LCEVs) can provide reliable biomarkers for neurological diseases; however, little is known about the LCEVs in children with ASD. The study enrolled 100 children with ASD (2.5-6 years of age; 90 males) and 60 age-matched TD children (54 males) as control. The serum sample was collected and pooled into five ASD subgroups and three TD subgroups (n = 20). LCEVs were isolated and characterized meticulously. Whole-transcriptome of LCEVs was analyzed by lncRNA microarray and RNA-sequencing. All raw data was submitted on GEO Profiles, and GEO accession numbers is GSE186493. RNAs expressed differently in LCEVs from ASD sera vs. TD sera were screened, analyzed, and further validated. A total of 1418 mRNAs, 1745 lncRNAs, and 11 miRNAs were differentially expressed, and most of them were downregulated in ASD. Most RNAs were involved in neuron- and glycan-related networks implicated in ASD. The levels of EDNRA, SLC17A6, HTR3A, OSTC, TMEM165, PC-5p-139289_26, and hsa-miR-193a-5p were validated in at least 15 ASD and 15 TD individual serum samples, which were consistent with the results of transcriptome analysis. In conclusion, whole-transcriptome analysis of serum LCEVs reveals neural and glycosylation changes in ASD, which may help detect predictive biomarkers and molecular mechanisms of ASD, and provide reference for diagnoses and therapeutic management of the disease.
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Therapeutic Effects of a Novel Form of Biotin on Propionic Acid-Induced Autistic Features in Rats. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061280. [PMID: 35334937 PMCID: PMC8955994 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnesium biotinate (MgB) is a novel biotin complex with superior absorption and anti-inflammatory effects in the brain than D-Biotin. This study aimed to investigate the impact of different doses of MgB on social behavior deficits, learning and memory alteration, and inflammatory markers in propionic acid (PPA)-exposed rats. In this case, 35 Wistar rats (3 weeks old) were distributed into five groups: 1, Control; 2, PPA treated group; 3, PPA+MgBI (10 mg, HED); 4, PPA+MgBII (100 mg, HED); 5, PPA+MgBIII (500 mg, HED). PPA was given subcutaneously at 500 mg/kg/day for five days, followed by MgB for two weeks. PPA-exposed rats showed poor sociability and a high level of anxiety-like behaviors and cognitive impairments (p < 0.001). In a dose-dependent manner, behavioral and learning-memory disorders were significantly improved by MgB supplementation (p < 0.05). PPA decreased both the numbers and the sizes of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. However, MgB administration increased the sizes and the densities of Purkinje cells. MgB improved the brain and serum Mg, biotin, serotonin, and dopamine concentrations, as well as antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GPx, and GSH) (p < 0.05). In addition, MgB treatment significantly regulated the neurotoxicity-related cytokines and neurotransmission-related markers. For instance, MgB significantly decreased the expression level of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17, CCL-3, CCL-5, and CXCL-16 in the brain, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). These data demonstrate that MgB may ameliorate dysfunctions in social behavior, learning and memory and reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation indexes of the brain in a rat model.
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17
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What is the mechanism of loudness hyperacusis in autism? Med Hypotheses 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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18
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Chernikova MA, Flores GD, Kilroy E, Labus JS, Mayer EA, Aziz-Zadeh L. The Brain-Gut-Microbiome System: Pathways and Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124497. [PMID: 34960049 PMCID: PMC8704412 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal dysfunction is one of the most prevalent physiological symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A growing body of largely preclinical research suggests that dysbiotic gut microbiota may modulate brain function and social behavior, yet little is known about the mechanisms that underlie these relationships and how they may influence the pathogenesis or severity of ASD. While various genetic and environmental risk factors have been implicated in ASD, this review aims to provide an overview of studies elucidating the mechanisms by which gut microbiota, associated metabolites, and the brain interact to influence behavior and ASD development, in at least a subgroup of individuals with gastrointestinal problems. Specifically, we review the brain-gut-microbiome system and discuss findings from current animal and human studies as they relate to social-behavioral and neurological impairments in ASD, microbiota-targeted therapies (i.e., probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation) in ASD, and how microbiota may influence the brain at molecular, structural, and functional levels, with a particular interest in social and emotion-related brain networks. A deeper understanding of microbiome-brain-behavior interactions has the potential to inform new therapies aimed at modulating this system and alleviating both behavioral and physiological symptomatology in individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle A. Chernikova
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; (M.A.C.); (G.D.F.); (E.K.)
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Psychology Department, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA
| | - Genesis D. Flores
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; (M.A.C.); (G.D.F.); (E.K.)
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Psychology Department, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA 91768, USA
| | - Emily Kilroy
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; (M.A.C.); (G.D.F.); (E.K.)
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Jennifer S. Labus
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Gonda (Goldschmied) Neuroscience and Genetics Research Center, Brain Research Institute UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Emeran A. Mayer
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: (E.A.M.); (L.A.-Z.)
| | - Lisa Aziz-Zadeh
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; (M.A.C.); (G.D.F.); (E.K.)
- Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Correspondence: (E.A.M.); (L.A.-Z.)
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Layunta E, Buey B, Mesonero JE, Latorre E. Crosstalk Between Intestinal Serotonergic System and Pattern Recognition Receptors on the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:748254. [PMID: 34819919 PMCID: PMC8607755 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.748254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruption of the microbiota-gut-brain axis results in a wide range of pathologies that are affected, from the brain to the intestine. Gut hormones released by enteroendocrine cells to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are important signaling molecules within this axis. In the search for the language that allows microbiota to communicate with the gut and the brain, serotonin seems to be the most important mediator. In recent years, serotonin has emerged as a key neurotransmitter in the gut-brain axis because it largely contributes to both GI and brain physiology. In addition, intestinal microbiota are crucial in serotonin signaling, which gives more relevance to the role of the serotonin as an important mediator in microbiota-host interactions. Despite the numerous investigations focused on the gut-brain axis and the pathologies associated, little is known regarding how serotonin can mediate in the microbiota-gut-brain axis. In this review, we will mainly discuss serotonergic system modulation by microbiota as a pathway of communication between intestinal microbes and the body on the microbiota-gut-brain axis, and we explore novel therapeutic approaches for GI diseases and mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Layunta
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Berta Buey
- Departamento de Farmacología, Fisiología y Medicina Legal y Forense, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose Emilio Mesonero
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Departamento de Farmacología, Fisiología y Medicina Legal y Forense, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza–CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eva Latorre
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón—IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza–CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Alymov AA, Kapitsa IG, Voronina TA. Neurochemical Mechanisms of Pathogenesis and Pharmacological Correction of Autism Spectrum Disorders: Current Concepts and Prospects. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421020033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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21
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Alterations in Gut Vitamin and Amino Acid Metabolism are Associated with Symptoms and Neurodevelopment in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:3116-3128. [PMID: 34263410 PMCID: PMC9213278 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05066-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic disturbance may be implicated in the pathogenesis of autism. This study aimed to investigate the gut metabolomic profiles of autistic children and to analyze potential interaction between gut metabolites with autistic symptoms and neurodevelopment levels. We involved 120 autistic and 60 neurotypical children. Autistic symptoms and neurodevelopment levels were assessed. Fecal samples were analyzed using untargeted liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry methods. Our results showed the metabolic disturbances of autistic children involved in multiple vitamin and amino acid metabolism pathways, with the strongest enrichment identified for tryptophan metabolism, retinol metabolism, cysteine-methionine metabolism, and vitamin digestion and absorption. Differential gut metabolites were correlated to autistic symptoms and neurodevelopment levels. Our findings improved the understanding of the perturbations of metabolome networks in autism.
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22
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Association between Genetic Variants in DUSP15, CNTNAP2, and PCDHA Genes and Risk of Childhood Autism Spectrum Disorder. Behav Neurol 2021; 2021:4150926. [PMID: 34257739 PMCID: PMC8261179 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4150926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Genetic factors play an important role in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This case-control study was to determine the association between childhood ASD and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs3746599 in the DUSP15 gene, rs7794745 in the CNTNAP2 gene, and rs251379 in the PCDHA gene in a Chinese Han population. Methods Genotypes of SNPs were examined in DNA extracted from blood cells from 201 children with ASD and 200 healthy controls. The Children Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was applied to evaluate the severity of the disease and language impairment. The relationship between SNPs and the risk of ASD or the severity of the disease was determined by logistic regression and one-way ANOVA. Results The genotype G/G of rs3746599 in the DUSP15 gene was significantly associated with a decreased risk of ASD (odds ratio (OR) = 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.42-0.99, P = 0.0449). The T allele of rs7794745 in the CNTNAP2 gene was associated with an increased risk of ASD (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.01-1.77, P = 0.0435). The SNP rs251379 was not associated with ASD. Though none of the SNPs examined were associated with ASD severity, rs7794745 was associated with severity of language impairment. Conclusions Our findings suggest that both rs3746599 in the DUSP15 gene and rs7794745 in the CNTNAP2 gene are associated with risk of childhood ASD, and rs7794745 is also related to the severity of language impairment in autistic children from a Chinese Han population.
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Liu J, Fu H, Kong J, Yu H, Zhang Z. Association between autism spectrum disorder and polymorphisms in genes encoding serotine and dopamine receptors. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:865-870. [PMID: 33644845 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00699-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Dysfunctions of the neurotransmitter system are related to the development of many psychological diseases including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are correlated with varied susceptibility of ASD and response to treatments. The association between SNPs in genes encoding serotonin and dopamine receptors and childhood ASD was examined in a Chinese Han population. Both autistic children (n = 319) and age-and gender-matched healthy controls (n = 347) were recruited from a local district. Disease severity was evaluated by the childhood autism rating scale (CARS). SNPs of rs6311 and rs6313 in the serotonin receptor HTR2A gene, rs4630328 in the dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2) gene and rs167771 in the DRD3 gene were examined. The CC genotype of rs6311 was significantly associated with an increased risk of ASD (odds ratio (OD) = 1.8 vs TT, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-2.8, P = 0.0085). Carriers of the C allele of rs6311 had a significantly higher risk of childhood ASD (OD =1.3, 95% CI = 1.1-1.7, P = 0.0094). A strong linkage disequilibrium was observed between rs6311 and rs6313 (D' = 0.93, r2 = 0.86). There were significant correlations between haplotypes (T-A and C-G of rs6311-rs6313) and risk of childhood ASD. In contrast, the frequencies of genotypes and alleles of rs6313, rs4630328 and rs167771 were not significantly different between the case and control groups. All the SNPs examined were not associated with severity of the disease. Our study demonstrates that certain SNPs in the HTR2A gene, but not the DRD2 and DRD3, are associated with susceptibility to childhood ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Central Laboratory, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Xiaoshan Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311202, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Huamei Fu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiaoshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 311202, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiangying Kong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiaoshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 311202, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Xiaoshan First Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zengyu Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiaoshan First Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
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Sharma A, Mehan S. Targeting PI3K-AKT/mTOR signaling in the prevention of autism. Neurochem Int 2021; 147:105067. [PMID: 33992742 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PI3K-AKT/mTOR signaling pathway represents an essential signaling mechanism for mammalian enzyme-related receptors in transducing signals or biological processes such as cell development, differentiation, cell survival, protein synthesis, and metabolism. Upregulation of the PI3K-AKT/mTOR signaling pathway involves many human brain abnormalities, including autism and other neurological dysfunctions. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with behavior and psychiatric illness. This research-based review discusses the functional relationship between the neuropathogenic factors associated with PI3K-AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Ultimately causes autism-like conditions associated with genetic alterations, neuronal apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. Therefore, inhibition of the PI3K-AKT/mTOR signaling pathway may have an effective therapeutic value for autism treatment. The current review also summarizes the involvement of PI3K-AKT/mTOR signaling pathway inhibitors in the treatment of autism and other neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarti Sharma
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India.
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25
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Higazi AM, Kamel HM, Abdel-Naeem EA, Abdullah NM, Mahrous DM, Osman AM. Expression analysis of selected genes involved in tryptophan metabolic pathways in Egyptian children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and learning disabilities. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6931. [PMID: 33767242 PMCID: PMC7994393 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86162-w] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and learning disabilities are neurodevelopmental disabilities characterized by dramatically increasing incidence rates, yet the exact etiology for these disabilities is not identified. Impairment in tryptophan metabolism has been suggested to participate in the pathogenesis of ASD, however, further validation of its involvement is required. Additionally, its role in learning disabilities is still uninvestigated. Our objective was to evaluate some aspects of tryptophan metabolism in ASD children (N = 45) compared to children with learning disabilities (N = 44) and healthy controls (N = 40) by measuring the expression levels of the MAOA, HAAO and AADAT genes using real-time RT-qPCR. We also aimed to correlate the expression patterns of these genes with parental ages at the time of childbirth, levels of serum iron, and vitamin D3 and zinc/copper ratio, as possible risk factors for ASD. Results demonstrated a significant decrease in the expression of the selected genes within ASD children (p < 0.001) relative to children with learning disabilities and healthy controls, which significantly associated with the levels of our targeted risk factors (p < 0.05) and negatively correlated to ASD scoring (p < 0.001). In conclusion, this study suggests that the expression of the MAOA, HAAO and AADAT genes may underpin the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliaa M. Higazi
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Clinical and Molecular Chemistry Unit, Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Hanan M. Kamel
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Clinical and Molecular Chemistry Unit, Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Emad A. Abdel-Naeem
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Immunology Unit, Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Noha M. Abdullah
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Clinical and Molecular Chemistry Unit, Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Doaa M. Mahrous
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Ashraf M. Osman
- grid.411806.a0000 0000 8999 4945Clinical and Molecular Chemistry Unit, Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
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26
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Lorsung E, Karthikeyan R, Cao R. Biological Timing and Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Role for Circadian Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:642745. [PMID: 33776640 PMCID: PMC7994532 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.642745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, as well as stereotyped and repetitive behaviors. ASDs affect nearly 2% of the United States child population and the worldwide prevalence has dramatically increased in recent years. The etiology is not clear but ASD is thought to be caused by a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Circadian rhythms are the ∼24 h rhythms driven by the endogenous biological clock, and they are found in a variety of physiological processes. Growing evidence from basic and clinical studies suggest that the dysfunction of the circadian timing system may be associated with ASD and its pathogenesis. Here we review the findings that link circadian dysfunctions to ASD in both experimental and clinical studies. We first introduce the organization of the circadian system and ASD. Next, we review physiological indicators of circadian rhythms that are found disrupted in ASD individuals, including sleep-wake cycles, melatonin, cortisol, and serotonin. Finally, we review evidence in epidemiology, human genetics, and biochemistry that indicates underlying associations between circadian regulation and the pathogenesis of ASD. In conclusion, we propose that understanding the functional importance of the circadian clock in normal and aberrant neurodevelopmental processes may provide a novel perspective to tackle ASD, and clinical treatments for ASD individuals should comprise an integrative approach considering the dynamics of daily rhythms in physical, mental, and social processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Lorsung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, United States
| | - Ramanujam Karthikeyan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, United States
| | - Ruifeng Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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27
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Béroule DG. Paradoxical Effects of a Cytokine and an Anticonvulsant Strengthen the Epigenetic/Enzymatic Avenue for Autism Research. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:585395. [PMID: 33262691 PMCID: PMC7686807 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.585395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal exposure to the valproate short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) during pregnancy is known to possibly induce autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in the offspring. By contrast, case studies have evidenced positive outcomes of this anticonvulsant drug in children with severe autism. Interestingly, the same paradoxical pattern applies to the IL-17a inflammatory cytokine involved in the immune system regulation. Such joint apparent contradictions can be overcome by pointing out that, among their respective signaling pathways, valproate and IL-17a share an enhancement of the “type A monoamine oxidase” (MAOA) enzyme carried by the X chromosome. In the Guided Propagation (GP) model of autism, such enzymatic rise triggers a prenatal epigenetic downregulation, which, without possible X-inactivation, and when coinciding with genetic expression variants of other brain enzymes, results in the delayed onset of autistic symptoms. The underlying imbalance of synaptic monoamines, serotonin in the first place, would reflect a mismatch between the environment to which the brain metabolism was prepared during gestation and the postnatal actual surroundings. Following a prenatal exposure to molecules that significantly elicit the MAOA gene expression, a daily treatment with the same metabolic impact would tend to recreate the fetal environment and contribute to rebalance monoamines, thus allowing proper neural circuits to gradually develop, provided behavioral re-education. Given the multifaceted other players than MAOA that are involved in the regulation of serotonin levels, potential compensatory effects are surveyed, which may underlie the autism heterogeneity. This explanatory framework opens up prospects regarding autism prevention and treatment, strikingly in line with current advances along the gut microbiome–brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Béroule
- CNRS, Bat.508, Faculté des Sciences d'Orsay, BP 133, Orsay, France.,CRIIGEN, Paris, France
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28
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Scrutinizing the molecular, biochemical, and cytogenetic attributes in subjects with Rett syndrome (RTT) and their mothers. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 111:107277. [PMID: 32653844 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a stern dominant progressive neurological development disorder linked with X chromosome ranking second for mental slowdown, exclusively in females after few months of birth with normal development and growth period. Genetically any defects in universally expressed methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) transcription regulator gene are considered as radix for RTT in almost all the previous studies. Our study mainly focuses in unraveling the genetic alterations like identifying MeCP2 gene polymorphisms, chromosomal abnormalities, or X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) as underlying cause of RTT in prototypes sorted through Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Text Revised (DSM IV). In addition, we have examined the probable surrogates of brain function disabilities like serotonin, homocysteine (Hcy), calcium, potassium, and lead from blood in both RTT porotypes and their mothers. In our investigation, we have observed varied amino acid substitution of MeCP2 and varied frequency of skewed XCI in RTT prototype. Our study validates that the demonstration of chromosomal analysis, biochemical analysis, and genomic observations helps in concluding RTT condition and can be helpful in providing appropriate treatment and counseling as well as improve the currently available protocol of diagnosis.
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29
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Meyyazhagan A, Balasubramanian B, Easwaran M, Alagamuthu KK, Shanmugam S, Kuchi Bhotla H, Pappusamy M, Arumugam VA, Thangaraj A, Kaul T, Keshavarao S, Cacabelos R. Biomarker study of the biological parameter and neurotransmitter levels in autistics. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 474:277-284. [PMID: 32740790 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03851-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a prevalent developmental disorder that combines repetitive behaviours, social deficits and language abnormalities. The present study aims to assess the autistic subjects using DSM IV-TR criteria followed with the analysis of neurotransmitters, biochemical parameters, oxidative stress and its ions in two groups of autistic subjects (group I < 12 years; group II ≥ 12 years). Antioxidants show a variation of 10% increase in controls compared to autistic age < 12 years. The concentration of pyruvate kinase and hexokinase is elevated in controls approximately 60% and 45%, respectively, with the significance of 95 and 99%. Autistic subjects showed marked variation in levels of neurotransmitters, oxidative stress and its related ions. Cumulative assessment of parameters related to biochemical markers and neurotransmitters paves the way for autism-based research, although these observations draw interest in an integrated approach for autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Meyyazhagan
- EuroEspes Biomedical Research Centre, International Center of Neurosciences and Genomic Medicine, Bergondo, 15165, Corunna, Spain. .,Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India. .,Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560029, India.
| | - Balamuralikrishnan Balasubramanian
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India.,Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sejong University, Seoul, 05006, South Korea
| | - Murugesh Easwaran
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Karthick Kumar Alagamuthu
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India.,Jiagsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Sureshkumar Shanmugam
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India.,Department of Animal Resource and Science, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, South Korea
| | - Haripriya Kuchi Bhotla
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | - Manikantan Pappusamy
- Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560029, India
| | - Vijaya Anand Arumugam
- Medical Genetics and Epigenetics Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | - Arulprakash Thangaraj
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Tanushri Kaul
- Nutritional Improvement of Crops, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Sasikala Keshavarao
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | - Ramon Cacabelos
- EuroEspes Biomedical Research Centre, International Center of Neurosciences and Genomic Medicine, Bergondo, 15165, Corunna, Spain
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30
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Szőke H, Kovács Z, Bókkon I, Vagedes J, Szabó AE, Hegyi G, Sterner MG, Kiss Á, Kapócs G. Gut dysbiosis and serotonin: intestinal 5-HT as a ubiquitous membrane permeability regulator in host tissues, organs, and the brain. Rev Neurosci 2020; 31:415-425. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2019-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe microbiota and microbiome and disruption of the gut-brain axis were linked to various metabolic, immunological, physiological, neurodevelopmental, and neuropsychiatric diseases. After a brief review of the relevant literature, we present our hypothesis that intestinal serotonin, produced by intestinal enterochromaffin cells, picked up and stored by circulating platelets, participates and has an important role in the regulation of membrane permeability in the intestine, brain, and other organs. In addition, intestinal serotonin may act as a hormone-like continuous regulatory signal for the whole body, including the brain. This regulatory signal function is mediated by platelets and is primarily dependent on and reflects the intestine’s actual health condition. This hypothesis may partially explain why gut dysbiosis could be linked to various human pathological conditions as well as neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Szőke
- Department of CAM, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Doctorate School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Kovács
- Doctorate School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - István Bókkon
- Vision Research Institute, Neuroscience and Consciousness Research Department, Lowell, MA, USA
- Psychosomatic Outpatient Clinics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Jan Vagedes
- University of Tübingen, Children’s Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
- ARCIM Institute (Academic Research in Complementary and Integrative Medicine), Filderstadt, Germany
| | | | - Gabriella Hegyi
- Department of CAM, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Doctorate School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | | | - Ágnes Kiss
- Doctorate School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gábor Kapócs
- Buda Family-Centered Mental Health Centre, Department of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Teaching Department of Semmelweis University, New Saint John Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute for Behavioral Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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31
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Marotta R, Risoleo MC, Messina G, Parisi L, Carotenuto M, Vetri L, Roccella M. The Neurochemistry of Autism. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E163. [PMID: 32182969 PMCID: PMC7139720 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to complex neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior or interests, and altered sensory processing. Environmental, immunological, genetic, and epigenetic factors are implicated in the pathophysiology of autism and provoke the occurrence of neuroanatomical and neurochemical events relatively early in the development of the central nervous system. Many neurochemical pathways are involved in determining ASD; however, how these complex networks interact and cause the onset of the core symptoms of autism remains unclear. Further studies on neurochemical alterations in autism are necessary to clarify the early neurodevelopmental variations behind the enormous heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorder, and therefore lead to new approaches for the treatment and prevention of autism. In this review, we aim to delineate the state-of-the-art main research findings about the neurochemical alterations in autism etiology, and focuses on gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, serotonin, dopamine, N-acetyl aspartate, oxytocin and arginine-vasopressin, melatonin, vitamin D, orexin, endogenous opioids, and acetylcholine. We also aim to suggest a possible related therapeutic approach that could improve the quality of ASD interventions. Over one hundred references were collected through electronic database searching in Medline and EMBASE (Ovid), Scopus (Elsevier), ERIC (Proquest), PubMed, and the Web of Science (ISI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Marotta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro 88100, Italy; (R.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Maria C. Risoleo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro 88100, Italy; (R.M.); (M.C.R.)
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli 80138, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia 71100, Italy;
| | - Lucia Parisi
- Department of Psychology, Educational and Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy; (L.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Marco Carotenuto
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli 80138, Italy;
| | - Luigi Vetri
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Michele Roccella
- Department of Psychology, Educational and Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy; (L.P.); (M.R.)
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Shen L, Liu X, Zhang H, Lin J, Feng C, Iqbal J. Biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders: Current progress. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 502:41-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2019.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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TOMOVA A, KEMÉNYOVÁ P, FILČÍKOVÁ D, SZAPUOVÁ Ž, KOVÁČ A, BABINSKÁ K, OSTATNÍKOVÁ D. Plasma Levels of Glial Cell Marker S100B in Children With Autism. Physiol Res 2019; 68:S315-S323. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with increasing incidence. Recent evidences suggest glial cells involvement in autism pathophysiology. S100B is a calcium binding protein, mainly found in astrocytes and therefore used as a marker of their activity. In our study, children with autism had higher plasma concentrations of S100B compared to non-autistic controls. No association of S100B plasma levels with behavioral symptoms (ADI-R and ADOS-2 scales) was found. Plasma S100B concentration significantly correlated with urine serotonin, suggesting their interconnection. Correlation of plasma S100B levels with stool calprotectin concentrations was found, suggesting not only brain astrocytes, but also enteric glial cells may take part in autism pathogenesis. Based on our findings, S100B seems to have a potential to be used as a biomarker of human neurodevelopmental disorders, but more investigations are needed to clarify its exact role in pathomechanism of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. TOMOVA
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - P. KEMÉNYOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - D. FILČÍKOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Ž. SZAPUOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - A. KOVÁČ
- Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - K. BABINSKÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - D. OSTATNÍKOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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Bridgemohan C, Cochran DM, Howe YJ, Pawlowski K, Zimmerman AW, Anderson GM, Choueiri R, Sices L, Miller KJ, Ultmann M, Helt J, Forbes PW, Farfel L, Brewster SJ, Frazier JA, Neumeyer AM. Investigating Potential Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Integr Neurosci 2019; 13:31. [PMID: 31427932 PMCID: PMC6687766 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2019.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Early identification and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) improves outcomes, but specific evidence needed to individualize treatment recommendations is lacking. Biomarkers that could be routinely measured within the clinical setting could potentially transform clinical care for patients with ASD. This demonstration project employed collection of biomarker data during regular autism specialty clinical visits and explored the relationship of biomarkers with clinical ASD symptoms. Methods Eighty-three children with ASD, aged 5–10 years, completed a multi-site feasibility study integrating the collection of biochemical (blood serotonin, urine melatonin sulfate excretion) and clinical (head circumference, dysmorphology exam, digit ratio, cognitive and behavioral function) biomarkers during routine ASD clinic visits. Parents completed a demographic survey and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community. Cognitive function was determined by record review. Data analysis utilized Wilcoxon two-sample tests and Spearman correlations. Results Participants were 82% male, 63% White, 19% Hispanic, with a broad range of functioning. Group means indicated hyperserotonemia. In a single regression analysis adjusting for race and median household income, higher income was associated with higher levels of blood serotonin and urine melatonin sulfate excretion levels (p = 0.004 and p = 0.04, respectively). Melatonin correlated negatively with age (p = 0.048) and reported neurologic problems (p = 0.02). Dysmorphic status correlated with higher reported stereotyped behavior (p = 0.02) and inappropriate speech (p = 0.04). Conclusion This demonstration project employed collection of multiple biomarkers, allowed for examination of associations between biochemical and clinical measures, and identified several findings that suggest direction for future studies. This clinical research model has promise for integrative biomarker research in individuals with complex, heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Bridgemohan
- Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David M Cochran
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Yamini J Howe
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, United States
| | | | - Andrew W Zimmerman
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - George M Anderson
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Roula Choueiri
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Laura Sices
- Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Karen J Miller
- Center for Children with Special Needs, Floating Children's Hospital at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Monica Ultmann
- Center for Children with Special Needs, Floating Children's Hospital at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jessica Helt
- Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, United States
| | | | - Laura Farfel
- Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Center for Children with Special Needs, Floating Children's Hospital at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Autism Consortium at Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Jean A Frazier
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States.,Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Ann M Neumeyer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, United States
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Agrawal L, Vimal SK, Shiga T. Role of serotonin 4 receptor in the growth of hippocampal neurons during the embryonic development in mice. Neuropharmacology 2019; 158:107712. [PMID: 31325432 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) homeostasis is critical for the brain development which influences neurogenesis, neuronal migration, and circuit formation. Distinctive distribution patterns of serotonin receptors (5-HTRs) in the brain govern various physiological activities. Amongst the 5-HTRs, serotonin 4 receptor (5-HT4R) is widely expressed in embryonic forebrain and affects neuronal development, synaptogenesis, and behavior, but its specific role in brain development is still not completely understood. Therefore, in the present study, we addressed the roles of 5-HT4R in the growth of hippocampal neurons during the development of mice brain. We cultured hippocampal neurons of the mouse at embryonic day 18 and then treatment of 5-HT4R agonist RS67333 was employed. We found RS67333 significantly increased the axonal length, diameter and branching along with total dendritic length, number of primary dendrites and their branching. In addition, these effects were neutralized by the concomitant treatment of 5-HT4R antagonist GR125487, which confirmed the specific role of the 5-HT4R in the growth of axon and dendrites. Further, the treatment of RS67333 upregulated the mRNA expression of collapsin response mediator protein-2 (CRMP2) and non-phosphorylated CRMP2 (npCRMP2) together with neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NT-3, NGF) and TRK-A. Additionally, the current research findings reveal that the knockdown of CRMP2 inhibited RS67333-induced growth of the axons and dendrites, which indicates that CRMP2 is required for the 5-HT4R-mediated growth of the axons and dendrites. Overall, the findings of the present in vitro study enrich the understanding and provide insight roles of 5-HT4R in embryonic brain development by promoting the growth of hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lokesh Agrawal
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Kansei, Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8577, Japan
| | - Sunil Kumar Vimal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Takashi Shiga
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Kansei, Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8577, Japan; Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, 305-8577, Japan.
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Fatima Z, Zahra A, Ghouse M, Wang X, Yuan Z. Maternal SSRIs experience and risk of ASD in offspring: a review. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2018; 7:1020-1028. [PMID: 30510676 PMCID: PMC6220718 DOI: 10.1039/c8tx00102b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antidepressants are extensively used during pregnancy and associated with severe outcomes, including innate malformations, prematurity, and low birth weight, etc. A recent study suggested that prenatal exposure to antidepressants may impair child neurodevelopment process. Thus, the aim of this review is to investigate the potential association between prenatal use of selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and the risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Twelve studies related to the linkage between SSRI exposure during pregnancy and ASD in children were explored and compiled. However, there is a knowledge gap concerning the potential link between gestational exposure to antidepressants and the risk of ASDs. Despite such limitations, the available data show that some signal exists and signifies that antenatal exposure to SSRIs may increase the risk of ASDs. Thus, there is a vital need for further, large and well-designed research to definitively evaluate the existence and the magnitude of this severe risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Fatima
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues , Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) , Wuhan , China . ; ; ; Fax: +86-27-87672232 ; Tel: +86-27-87287186 ; Tel: +86-27-87287186
| | - Aqeela Zahra
- School of Life Sciences , South China Normal University , China
- School of Psychology and Brain Science Institute , South China Normal University , Guangzhou , 510631
| | - Maria Ghouse
- School of Life Sciences , South China Normal University , China
| | - Xu Wang
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues , Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) , Wuhan , China . ; ; ; Fax: +86-27-87672232 ; Tel: +86-27-87287186 ; Tel: +86-27-87287186
| | - Zonghui Yuan
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues , Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) , Wuhan , China . ; ; ; Fax: +86-27-87672232 ; Tel: +86-27-87287186 ; Tel: +86-27-87287186
- MOA Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Quality and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products , Wuhan , China
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