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Pall ML. Central Causation of Autism/ASDs via Excessive [Ca 2+]i Impacting Six Mechanisms Controlling Synaptogenesis during the Perinatal Period: The Role of Electromagnetic Fields and Chemicals and the NO/ONOO(-) Cycle, as Well as Specific Mutations. Brain Sci 2024; 14:454. [PMID: 38790433 PMCID: PMC11119459 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050454] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The roles of perinatal development, intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i, and synaptogenesis disruption are not novel in the autism/ASD literature. The focus on six mechanisms controlling synaptogenesis, each regulated by [Ca2+]i, and each aberrant in ASDs is novel. The model presented here predicts that autism epidemic causation involves central roles of both electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and chemicals. EMFs act via voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) activation and [Ca2+]i elevation. A total of 15 autism-implicated chemical classes each act to produce [Ca2+]i elevation, 12 acting via NMDA receptor activation, and three acting via other mechanisms. The chronic nature of ASDs is explained via NO/ONOO(-) vicious cycle elevation and MeCP2 epigenetic dysfunction. Genetic causation often also involves [Ca2+]i elevation or other impacts on synaptogenesis. The literature examining each of these steps is systematically examined and found to be consistent with predictions. Approaches that may be sed for ASD prevention or treatment are discussed in connection with this special issue: The current situation and prospects for children with ASDs. Such approaches include EMF, chemical avoidance, and using nutrients and other agents to raise the levels of Nrf2. An enriched environment, vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s in fish oil may also be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Pall
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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2
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Aspragkathou DD, Spilioti MG, Gkampeta A, Dalpa E, Holeva V, Papadopoulou MT, Serdari A, Dafoulis V, Zafeiriou DI, Evangeliou AE. Branched-chain amino acids as adjunctive-alternative treatment in patients with autism: a pilot study. Br J Nutr 2024; 131:73-81. [PMID: 37424284 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114523001496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
The branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) is a group of essential amino acids that are involved in maintaining the energy balance of a human being as well as the homoeostasis of GABAergic, glutamatergic, serotonergic and dopaminergic systems. Disruption of these systems has been associated with the pathophysiology of autism while low levels of these amino acids have been discovered in patients with autism. A pilot open-label, prospective, follow-up study of the use of BCAA in children with autistic behaviour was carried out. Fifty-five children between the ages of 6 and 18 participated in the study from May 2015 to May 2018. We used a carbohydrate-free BCAA-powdered mixture containing 45·5 g of leucine, 30 g of isoleucine and 24·5 g of valine in a daily dose of 0·4 g/kg of body weight which was administered every morning. Following the initiation of BCAA administration, children were submitted to a monthly psychological examination. Beyond the 4-week mark, BCAA were given to thirty-two people (58·18 %). Six of them (10·9 %) discontinued after 4-10 weeks owing to lack of improvement. The remaining twenty-six children (47·27 %) who took BCAA for longer than 10 weeks displayed improved social behaviour and interactions, as well as improvements in their speech, cooperation, stereotypy and, principally, their hyperactivity. There were no adverse reactions reported during the course of the treatment. Although these data are preliminary, there is some evidence that BCAA could be used as adjunctive treatment to conventional therapeutic methods for the management of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina D Aspragkathou
- Department of Pediatrics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Papageorgiou Hospital, Efkarpia, 56403Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Martha G Spilioti
- Department of Neurology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasia Gkampeta
- Department of Pediatrics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Papageorgiou Hospital, Efkarpia, 56403Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efterpi Dalpa
- Department of Pediatrics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Papageorgiou Hospital, Efkarpia, 56403Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Holeva
- Psychiatric Clinic, Papageorgiou Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria T Papadopoulou
- Department of Pediatrics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Papageorgiou Hospital, Efkarpia, 56403Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aspasia Serdari
- Psychiatric Clinic, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Thrace University, Medical School, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Vaios Dafoulis
- Psychiatric Clinic of the Hippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios I Zafeiriou
- Department of Pediatrics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Hippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios E Evangeliou
- Department of Pediatrics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, Papageorgiou Hospital, Efkarpia, 56403Thessaloniki, Greece
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Botsas G, Koidou E, Chatzinikolaou K, Grouios G. Environmental Influences on Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorders with Special Emphasis on Seasonality: An Overview. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1851. [PMID: 38136053 PMCID: PMC10742301 DOI: 10.3390/children10121851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
This paper offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationship between environmental factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with a special emphasis on seasonality. It reviews existing research, providing a comprehensive summary of findings and highlighting the multifaceted dimensions of several environmental factors influencing the etiology of ASD. The discussion encompasses various elements, including birth months, maternal health, dietary choices, and vitamin D deficiency, delving into the intricate interplay of seasonality with environmental influences such as viral infections and solar radiation. The present study raises essential questions regarding the timing of environmental influences and the factors contributing to the rising prevalence of ASD. Ultimately, it underscores the need for future epidemiological research to incorporate more extensive investigations of environmental risk factors and employ advanced statistical analyses. This comprehensive overview contributes to a deeper understanding of how environmental factors, particularly seasonality, may be linked to the occurrence of ASD and its increasing prevalence, recognizing the multifaceted and diverse nature of these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Botsas
- Department of Early Childhood and Care, School of Social Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Education, School of Education and Social Sciences, Frederick University, 3080 Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Eirini Koidou
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Chatzinikolaou
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
| | - George Grouios
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
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McCanlies EC, Gu JK, Kashon M, Yucesoy B, Ma CC, Sanderson WT, Kim K, Ludeña-Rodriguez YJ, Hertz-Picciotto I. Parental occupational exposure to solvents and autism spectrum disorder: An exploratory look at gene-environment interactions. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115769. [PMID: 37004853 PMCID: PMC10273405 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Erin C McCanlies
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA.
| | - Ja Kook Gu
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Michael Kashon
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Berran Yucesoy
- Former Affiliate of Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Claudia C Ma
- Former Affiliate of Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | | | - Kyoungmi Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | | | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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Rodrigues EL, Figueiredo PS, Marcelino G, de Cássia Avellaneda Guimarães R, Pott A, Santana LF, Hiane PA, do Nascimento VA, Bogo D, de Cássia Freitas K. Maternal Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Autism Spectrum Etiology and Its Relation to the Gut Microbiota: What Do We Know? Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071551. [PMID: 37049390 PMCID: PMC10097097 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071551] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal food habits and gut microbiota composition have potential effects on fetal neurodevelopment, impacting Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Our research aims to outline the relationship that ingestion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and the composition of maternal gut microbiota have with the possible development of ASD in offspring. We suggest that genetic factors could be related to the different conversions between unsaturated fatty acids according to sex and, mainly, the impact of the pregnancy diet on the higher or lower risk of neurological impairments. The proportion of the phyla Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes is high with an increased consumption of linoleic acid (LA, n-6 PUFA), which is associated with maternal intestinal dysbiosis and consequently starts the inflammatory process, harming myelinization. In contrast, the consumption of α-linolenic acid (ALA, n-3 PUFA) tends to re-establish the balance of the maternal microbiota with anti-inflammatory action. Moreover, human observational studies showed a strong correlation between the consumption of n-3 PUFA, mainly above 340 g of fish per week, with beneficial effects on infant neurodevelopment. Therefore, we suggest that the proper intake of foods rich in n-3 PUFAs and their supplementation during pregnancy until lactation has an impact on reducing the development of ASD. Controlled studies with n-3 PUFA supplementation are still necessary to verify the ideal dose and the best form of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisana Lima Rodrigues
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Priscila Silva Figueiredo
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Marcelino
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Rita de Cássia Avellaneda Guimarães
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Arnildo Pott
- Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Lidiani Figueiredo Santana
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Priscila Aiko Hiane
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Valter Aragão do Nascimento
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Danielle Bogo
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
| | - Karine de Cássia Freitas
- Graduate Program in Health and Development in the Central-West Region of Brazil, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul-UFMS, Campo Grande 79079-900, MS, Brazil
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Folate in maternal rheumatoid arthritis-filial autism spectrum disorder continuum. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 115:29-35. [PMID: 36402436 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.11.004] [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: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects women three times more than men. Epidemiological studies found that the incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurological and developmental disorder, in children born to mothers suffering from RA is higher compared with the control population. Considering that the pathogenesis of ASD could be traced back to pregnancy and in uterine conditions, and the evidence of reduced folate levels in the brain of ASD-affected children, we aimed to study the role of folate, as an important nutritional factor during pregnancy, in associating maternal RA to ASD development in the offspring. Folate balance during RA could be influenced twice, initially during the immune activation associated with disease onset, and later during the treatment with anti-folate drugs, with a potential consequence of folate deficiency. Maternal folate deficiency during pregnancy could increase homocysteine levels, oxidative stress, and global DNA hypomethylation, all known risk factors in ASD pathogenesis. These effects could be intensified by genetic polymorphisms in the folate system, which were also found as genetic risk factors for both RA and ASD. The available evidence suggests that folate level as an important factor during RA, pregnancy and ASD could have pathological and therapeutical significance and should be carefully monitored and investigated in the RA-pregnancy-ASD axis.
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Sachdeva P, Mehdi I, Kaith R, Ahmad F, Anwar MS. Potential natural products for the management of autism spectrum disorder. IBRAIN 2022; 8:365-376. [PMID: 37786737 PMCID: PMC10528773 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism in a broader sense is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which frequently occurs during early childhood and can last for a lifetime. This condition is primarily defined by difficulties with social engagement, with individuals displaying repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Numerous neuroanatomical investigations on autistic children have revealed that their brains grow atypically, resulting in atypical neurogenesis, neuronal migration, maturation, differentiation, and degeneration. Special education programs, speech therapy, and occupational therapy have all been used to address autism-related behavioral problems. While widely prescribed antidepressant drugs, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and stimulants have demonstrated response in autistic individuals. However, these medications do not fully reverse the core symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The adverse reactions of ASD medicines and an increased risk of developing various other problems, such as obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and thyroid disorders, prompted the researchers to investigate herbal medicines for the treatment of autistic individuals. Clinical trials are now being done to establish the efficacy of alternative techniques based on natural substances and to understand better the context in which they may be used to treat autism. This review of literature will look at crucial natural compounds derived from animals and plants that have shown promise as safe and effective autism treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punya Sachdeva
- Amity Institute of Neuropsychology and NeurosciencesAmity UniversityNoidaUttar PradeshIndia
| | - Intizaar Mehdi
- School of Studies in NeuroscienceJiwaji UniversityGwaliorMadhya PradeshIndia
| | - Rohit Kaith
- School of Studies in NeuroscienceJiwaji UniversityGwaliorMadhya PradeshIndia
| | - Faizan Ahmad
- Department of Medical Elementology and ToxicologyJamia Hamdard UniversityDelhiIndia
| | - Md Sheeraz Anwar
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CampaniaLuigi VanvitelliCasertaItaly
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8
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Liu Y, Yang Z, Du Y, Shi S, Cheng Y. Antioxidant interventions in autism spectrum disorders: A meta-analysis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 113:110476. [PMID: 34793863 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might be associated with oxidative stress, and antioxidants are commonly used in the treatment of young people with ASD. However, the evidence about the effectiveness of these interventions remains debatable. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of antioxidants on the symptoms of patients with autism. METHODS Data sources: PubMed and Web of Science databases. STUDY SELECTION We selected placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trials published until February 2021 to evaluate the efficacy of antioxidant interventions on ASD. DATA ANALYSIS Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), Developmental Behavior Checklist (DBC) and Clinical Global Impressions Severity scale (CGIS) were used to evaluate the 22 different symptom outcomes. The Hedges-adjusted g value was used to estimate the effect of each dietary intervention relative to the placebo. RESULTS In this meta-analysis, we examined 13 double-blind randomized clinical trials, comprising a total of 570 patients with ASD: 293 in the intervention group and 277 in the placebo group. Antioxidants (N-acetylcysteine (NAC), other antioxidants) are more effective than placebos in improving the irritability among symptoms in the ABC and communication disturbance symptoms in the DBC. There was a good trend of improvement in the stereotypic behavior symptoms in the ABC. Treatment with NAC antioxidants showed a good trend of improvement in irritability in the ABC and symptoms of hyperactivity. The effect size was small, and there was a low risk of statistical heterogeneity and publication bias. LIMITATIONS The number of studies in this meta-analysis was small and the sample size was small. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis suggests that antioxidant intervention has a potential role in the management of some symptoms in patients with ASD, and indicates the feasibility of using antioxidants to treat autism in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiying Liu
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China
| | - Zimeng Yang
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China
| | - Yang Du
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine for Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Sha Shi
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China.
| | - Yong Cheng
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, China.
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Mouat JS, LaSalle JM. The Promise of DNA Methylation in Understanding Multigenerational Factors in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Genet 2022; 13:831221. [PMID: 35242170 PMCID: PMC8886225 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.831221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social reciprocity and communication, restrictive interests, and repetitive behaviors. Most cases of ASD arise from a confluence of genetic susceptibility and environmental risk factors, whose interactions can be studied through epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation. While various parental factors are known to increase risk for ASD, several studies have indicated that grandparental and great-grandparental factors may also contribute. In animal studies, gestational exposure to certain environmental factors, such as insecticides, medications, and social stress, increases risk for altered behavioral phenotypes in multiple subsequent generations. Changes in DNA methylation, gene expression, and chromatin accessibility often accompany these altered behavioral phenotypes, with changes often appearing in genes that are important for neurodevelopment or have been previously implicated in ASD. One hypothesized mechanism for these phenotypic and methylation changes includes the transmission of DNA methylation marks at individual chromosomal loci from parent to offspring and beyond, called multigenerational epigenetic inheritance. Alternatively, intermediate metabolic phenotypes in the parental generation may confer risk from the original grandparental exposure to risk for ASD in grandchildren, mediated by DNA methylation. While hypothesized mechanisms require further research, the potential for multigenerational epigenetics assessments of ASD risk has implications for precision medicine as the field attempts to address the variable etiology and clinical signs of ASD by incorporating genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. In this review, we discuss the promise of multigenerational DNA methylation investigations in understanding the complex etiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia S Mouat
- LaSalle Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- LaSalle Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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Amadi CN, Orish CN, Frazzoli C, Orisakwe OE. Association of autism with toxic metals: A systematic review of case-control studies. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 212:173313. [PMID: 34896416 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Environmental factors have been associated with the etiology of autism spectrum disorder ASD in recent times. The involvement of toxic metals in the generation of reactive oxygen species and their epigenetics effects have been implicated in ASD. This systemic review examines the association of toxic metals with autism in children. A systematic literature search was performed in scientific databases such as PubMed, Google scholar, and Scopus. Case-control studies evaluating toxic metal levels in different tissues of ASD children and comparing them to healthy children (control group) were identified. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the risk of bias of the included studies. Six case-control studies with 425 study subjects met our inclusion criteria. A total of four studies indicated higher levels of As, Pb, Hg, Cd, Al, Sn, Sb, Ba, TI, W, and Zr in whole blood, RBC, in whole blood, RBC, and hair samples of children with autism compared with control suggestive of a greater toxic metal exposure (immediate and long-term). Three studies identified significantly higher concentrations of Cd, Pb and Hg in urine and hair samples of autistic children compared to control suggesting decreased excretion and possible high body burden of these metals. The findings from this review demonstrate that high levels of toxic metals are associated with ASD, therefore, critical care is necessary to reduce body burden of these metals in children with ASD as a major therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia N Amadi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Chinna N Orish
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria
| | - Chiara Frazzoli
- Department for Cardiovascular, Dysmetabolic and Aging Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Orish E Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria; African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Choba, Nigeria.
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Anashkina AA, Erlykina EI. Molecular Mechanisms of Aberrant Neuroplasticity in Autism Spectrum Disorders (Review). Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2021; 13:78-91. [PMID: 34513070 PMCID: PMC8353687 DOI: 10.17691/stm2021.13.1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents the analysis and systematization of modern data on the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) development. Polyetiology and the multifactorial nature of ASD have been proved. The attempt has been made to jointly review and systematize current hypotheses of ASD pathogenesis at the molecular level from the standpoint of aberrant brain plasticity. The mechanism of glutamate excitotoxicity formation, the effect of imbalance of neuroactive amino acids and their derivatives, neurotransmitters, and hormones on the ASD formation have been considered in detail. The strengths and weaknesses of the proposed hypotheses have been analyzed from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine. The conclusion has been drawn on the leading role of glutamate excitotoxicity as a biochemical mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity accompanied by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. The mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity has also been traced at the critical moments of the nervous system development taking into account the influence of various factors of the internal and external environment. New approaches to searching for ASD molecular markers have been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Anashkina
- Senior Teacher, Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya; Senior Researcher, Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - E I Erlykina
- Professor, Head of the Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
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12
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Veselinović A, Petrović S, Žikić V, Subotić M, Jakovljević V, Jeremić N, Vučić V. Neuroinflammation in Autism and Supplementation Based on Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: A Narrative Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57090893. [PMID: 34577816 PMCID: PMC8464922 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests and activities. The maternal status of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) regulates microglial activity and neuroinflammatory pathways during a child's brain development. In children with ASD, the metabolism of PUFA is thought to be deficient or abnormal, leading to increased production of proinflammatory cytokines, increased oxidative stress and an imbalance in the formation and action of neurotransmitters. In addition, nutritional deficits in omega-3 PUFA may affect gut microbiota and contribute to ASD by the gut-brain axis. The aim of this study was to review the possible role of neuroinflammation in ASD development and the effect of omega-3 PUFA supplementation in children with ASD. Due to a wide heterogeneity across RCTs, no definitive conclusion about omega-3 PUFA effects in ASD can be drawn. Supplementation with PUFA could be considered as one of the aspects in regulating the biological status of the organism and could provide added value to standard medical and psychological interventions for reducing behavioral deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Veselinović
- Cognitive Neuroscience Department, Research and Development Institute “Life Activities Advancement Centre”, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.Ž.); (M.S.)
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Institute for Experimental Phonetics and Speech Pathology, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-11-3208-552; Fax: +381-11-2624-168
| | - Snježana Petrović
- Group for Nutritional Biochemistry and Dietology, Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (V.V.)
| | - Vladica Žikić
- Cognitive Neuroscience Department, Research and Development Institute “Life Activities Advancement Centre”, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.Ž.); (M.S.)
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Institute for Experimental Phonetics and Speech Pathology, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Miško Subotić
- Cognitive Neuroscience Department, Research and Development Institute “Life Activities Advancement Centre”, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.Ž.); (M.S.)
| | - Vladimir Jakovljević
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
- Department of Human Pathology, 1st Moscow State Medical University IM Sechenov, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nevena Jeremić
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
| | - Vesna Vučić
- Group for Nutritional Biochemistry and Dietology, Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (V.V.)
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Baj J, Flieger W, Flieger M, Forma A, Sitarz E, Skórzyńska-Dziduszko K, Grochowski C, Maciejewski R, Karakuła-Juchnowicz H. Autism spectrum disorder: Trace elements imbalances and the pathogenesis and severity of autistic symptoms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:117-132. [PMID: 34339708 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers as diagnostic tools and predictors of response to treatment of neurological developmental disorders (NDD) such as schizophrenia (SZ), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), still remains an important challenge for clinical medicine. Metallomic profiles of ASD patients cover, besides essential elements such as cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, selenium, also toxic metals burden of: aluminum, arsenic, mercury, lead, beryllium, nickel, cadmium. Performed studies indicate that children with ASD present a reduced ability of eliminating toxic metals, which leads to these metals' accumulation and aggravation of autistic symptoms. Extensive metallomic studies allow a better understanding of the importance of trace elements as environmental factors in the pathogenesis of ASD. Even though a mineral imbalance is a fact in ASD, we are still expecting relevant tests and the elaboration of reference levels of trace elements as potential biomarkers useful in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Wojciech Flieger
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Flieger
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Alicja Forma
- Chair and Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Sitarz
- Chair and 1st Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Skórzyńska-Dziduszko
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska Street 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Cezary Grochowski
- Laboratory of Virtual Man, Chair of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland
| | - Ryszard Maciejewski
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland
| | - Hanna Karakuła-Juchnowicz
- Chair and 1st Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland; Department of Clinical Neuropsychiatry, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland
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Morin A, Van de Beeck L, Person E, Plamondon H. Adult Male Rats Show Resilience to Adolescent Bisphenol A Effects on Hormonal and Behavioral Responses While Co-Exposure With Hop Extracts Supports Synergistic Actions. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:639820. [PMID: 35295120 PMCID: PMC8915799 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.639820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The adolescence period, marked by sexual and brain maturation, has shown sensitivity to various environmental disruptors. Exposure to the xenoestrogen bisphenol A (BPA) is known to alter physiological and behavioral responses although its role at this critical period remains largely unknown. Recent research further suggests biochemical and genomic effects of BPA to be mitigated by various natural compounds, while effects on behavior have not been examined. This study aimed to characterize (1) the effects of dietary BPA during adolescence on endogenous corticosterone (CORT) secretion, emotional behavior, and testosterone (T) in adulthood, and (2) the impact of combined exposure to BPA with hop extracts (Hop), a phytoestrogen with anxiolytic properties. To do so, four groups of male Wistar rats [postnatal day (PND) 28] were administered corn oil (control), BPA (40 mg/kg), hops (40 mg/kg), or BPA-hops by oral gavage for 21 days (PND 28–48). Blood droplets collected on PND 28, 48, and 71 served to measure CORT and T changes. As adults, rats were tested in the elevated plus maze (EPM), the social interaction test, and the forced swim test. Our findings demonstrated elevated anxiety and a trend toward depressive-like behaviors in BPA- compared to hops-exposed rats. However, BPA intake had no impact on basal CORT levels, or adulthood T secretion and sociability. Of note, BPA's anxiogenic effect manifested through decreased EPM open arm entries was abolished by hops co-supplementation. Together, our observations suggest the adolescence period to be less sensitive to deleterious effects of BPA than what has been reported upon gestational and perinatal exposure.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the relationship between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and vitamin D levels in children and adolescents. METHODS We measured serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels in 1529 patients with ASD aged 3 to 18 years, without any additional chronic diseases. Levels of 25-OHD were compared according to sex, age (<11 or ≥11 years), and birth season. Additionally, laboratory parameters (calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and 25-OHD) of 100 selected patients with ASD were compared with those of the healthy control group. RESULTS Vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency was found in approximately 95% of all patients. Levels of 25-OHD in adolescent patients with ASD aged 11 to 18 years were significantly lower than those in patients aged younger than 11 years. In the 100 selected patients with ASD, mean serum 25-OHD levels were significantly lower and alkaline phosphatase levels were higher compared with those in healthy children. CONCLUSION Our study suggests a relationship between vitamin D and ASD in children. Monitoring vitamin D levels is crucial in autistic children, especially adolescents, to take protective measures and treat this condition early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esma Şengenç
- Department of Pediatrics, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ertuğrul Kıykım
- Division of Nutrition and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sema Saltik
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Zhang XH, Yang T, Chen J, Chen L, Dai Y, Jia FY, Wu LJ, Hao Y, Li L, Zhang J, Ke XY, Yi MJ, Hong Q, Chen JJ, Fang SF, Wang YC, Wang Q, Jin CH, Li TY. [Association between serum trace elements and core symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder: a national multicenter survey]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2021; 23. [PMID: 34020731 PMCID: PMC8140341 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2101163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the association of serum levels of trace elements with core symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS From September 2018 to September 2019, an investigation was performed for 1 020 children with ASD and 1 038 healthy children matched for age and sex in the outpatient service of grade A tertiary hospitals and special education institutions in 13 cities of China. Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) were used to assess the core symptoms of the children with ASD. The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to measure serum levels of trace elements magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc. RESULTS The children with ASD had significantly lower serum levels of magnesium, copper, and zinc than the healthy children (P < 0.05). The children with severe ASD had significantly lower serum levels of magnesium and zinc than those with mild-to-moderate ASD (P < 0.05). The results of partial correlation analysis showed that serum magnesium level was negatively correlated with the total score of ABC and the score of communication (r=-0.318 and -0.282 respectively; P 0.001), and serum zinc level was negatively correlated with the total score of ABC and the scores of communication and somatic movement (r=-0.221, -0.270, and -0.207 respectively; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The serum levels of magnesium and zinc may be associated with core symptoms in children with ASD, which requires further studies. The nutritional status of trace elements should be monitored for children with ASD in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Hui Zhang
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Li Chen
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Ying Dai
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing 400014, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ting-Yu Li
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University/National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders/Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders/Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing 400014, China
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Sokal A, Jarmakiewicz-Czaja S, Tabarkiewicz J, Filip R. Dietary Intake of Endocrine Disrupting Substances Presents in Environment and Their Impact on Thyroid Function. Nutrients 2021; 13:867. [PMID: 33800806 PMCID: PMC7998837 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the available data, environmental pollution is a serious problem all over the world. Between 2015 and 2016, pollution was responsible for approximately nine million deaths worldwide. They also include endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that can interfere with the functioning of the thyroid gland. They are characterized by high persistence in the environment. These substances can enter the body through the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, as well as contact with the skin and overcome the placental barrier. EDC can be found in food, water, and personal care products. They can get into food from the environment and as a result of their migration to food products and cosmetics from packaging. EDCs can disrupt the functioning of the thyroid gland through a number of mechanisms, including disrupting the activation of thyroid receptors and the expression of genes that are related to the metabolism, synthesis, and transport of thyroid hormones (HT). There is a need to strengthen the food safety policy that aimed at the use of appropriate materials in direct contact with food. At the same time, an important action is to reduce the production of all waste and, when possible, use biodegradable packaging, which may contribute to the improvement of the quality of the entire ecosystem and the health of food, thus reducing the risk of developing thyroid diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Sokal
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland;
| | - Sara Jarmakiewicz-Czaja
- Institute of Health Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland;
| | - Jacek Tabarkiewicz
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (J.T.); (R.F.)
| | - Rafał Filip
- Institute of Medicine, Medical College of Rzeszow University, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (J.T.); (R.F.)
- Department of Gastroenterology with IBD Unit, Clinical Hospital No. 2, 35-301 Rzeszow, Poland
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How matrix metalloproteinase ( MMP)- 9 (rs3918242) polymorphism affects MMP-9 serum concentration and associates with autism spectrum disorders: A case-control study in Iranian population. Dev Psychopathol 2021; 34:882-888. [PMID: 33517948 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579420002102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this project was to evaluate the relationship of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) genetic variation and its serum concentration with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One hundred ASD and 120 controls were enrolled in this study. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood and MMP-9 polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism and serum levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The frequencies of CC, CT, and TT genotypes were 72%, 26%, and 2% in controls and 31%, 57%, and 12% in ASD, respectively. The frequencies of C and T alleles in ASD were 59.5% and 40.5%, and controls were 86% and 14%, respectively. There is a significant increase in serum MMP-9 levels in ASD as compared to controls. We have also shown that TT genotype is significantly associated with increase serum MMP-9 levels in patients (TT, CT, and CC serum levels were 91.77 ± 10.53, 70.66 ± 7.21, and 38.66 ± 5.52 and in controls were 55.55 ± 11.39, 42.66 ± 7.85, and 30.55 ± 6.34 ng/ml, respectively). It is concluded that there is a significant association between rs3918242 MMP-9 polymorphism and its serum concentration with autism. We also suggest that TT genotype is associated with increased MMP9 expression and may be a risk factor for ASD.
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Toward a Better Testing Paradigm for Developmental Neurotoxicity: OECD Efforts and Regulatory Considerations. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10020086. [PMID: 33498772 PMCID: PMC7912397 DOI: 10.3390/biology10020086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary It is recognized that the current developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) testing paradigm is not fit-for -purpose for the assessment of a large number of chemicals. In the last two decades there have been scientific advances made for evaluating chemical interactions with the developing nervous system that rely on alternative to animal methods. The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) provides a forum to develop internationally harmonised guidance to test and assess chemicals for DNT that is primarily based on cellular models. Given the complexity of the developing nervous system and the availability of a number of non-animal methods to address DNT, integration of data from multiple studies is necessary and an OECD framework for organising existing scientific knowledge can be applied as the canvas of this integration. Herein, we provide a brief overview of the OECD DNT project and summarize various achievements of relevance to the project. The review also presents an opportunity to describe considerations for uptake of the DNT non animal methods in a regulatory context. Abstract Characterization of potential chemical-induced developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) hazard is considered for risk assessment purposes by many regulatory sectors. However, due to test complexity, difficulty in interpreting results and need of substantial resources, the use of the in vivo DNT test guidelines has been limited and animal data on DNT are scarce. To address challenging endpoints such as DNT, the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) chemical safety program has been working lately toward the development of integrated approaches for testing and assessment (IATA) that rely on a combination of multiple layers of data (e.g., in vitro, in silico and non-mammalian in vivo models) that are supported by mechanistic knowledge organized according to the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework. In 2017, the OECD convened a dedicated OECD expert group to develop a guidance document on the application and interpretation of data derived from a DNT testing battery that relies on key neurodevelopmental processes and is complemented by zebrafish assays. This review will provide a brief overview of the OECD DNT project and summarize various achievements of relevance to the project. The review also presents an opportunity to describe considerations for uptake of the DNT in an in vitro battery in a regulatory context.
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Fadila, Suman P, Kumar P, Omair F. Clinical Relevance of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Genetic Testing in Autism: A Case Report of Successful Clinical Outcome. Cureus 2021; 13:e12586. [PMID: 33577628 PMCID: PMC7870120 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.12586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is an emerging public health issue. The core features of autism spectrum disorder are persistent impairment in reciprocal social communication and interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests. We now know that it encompasses disorders previously referred to as early infantile autism, childhood autism, Kanner autism, high-functioning autism, atypical autism, Asperger disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. While it is agreed that the etiology of autism spectrum disorder is largely unknown, certain environmental and genetic factors may be responsible for the disease. In particular, emerging evidence has suggested the role of C677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene as a possible risk factor. We present the case of a two-year-old boy with high risk for autism who was found on advanced investigation to have heterozygous polymorphism for MTHFR. This prompted us to add folic acid to his therapeutic regime. He was treated with high-dose folic acid along with conventional intervention, and went on to make excellent recovery. We conclude that pharmacological intervention has the potential to improve outcome in a subgroup of autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadila
- Institute of Child Health, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Praveen Suman
- Child Development Clinic, Institute of Child Health, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Praveen Kumar
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Institute of Child Health, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Faraz Omair
- Department of General Medicine, GreenLife Hospital, Patna, IND
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Vitamin A deficiency increases the risk of gastrointestinal comorbidity and exacerbates core symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:211-216. [PMID: 32225174 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-0865-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, and many individuals with ASD have gastrointestinal (GI) comorbidities. Vitamin A (VA) is an essential micronutrient that plays an important role in brain development and GI function. METHODS A total of 323 children with ASD and 180 control children were enrolled in this study. Symptoms of ASD were assessed with the Child Autism Rating Scale (CARS), the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC). Caregivers of the children completed questionnaires about GI symptoms. Serum retinol levels were detected with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). RESULTS Children with ASD and with GI comorbidity and constipation had considerably lower serum VA levels than autistic children without these symptoms. VA level was associated with CARS, SRS, and ABC scores, whereas GI symptoms were associated some SRS and ABC scores. The interaction of VAD and GI symptoms appeared to aggravate some of the core symptoms of children with ASD. CONCLUSIONS VAD exacerbates core symptoms in children with ASD, and ASD children with GI comorbidities also have more serious core symptoms than ASD children without GI comorbidities. VAD comorbid with GI symptoms aggravates autistic children's core symptoms. IMPACT VAD exacerbates core symptoms in children with ASD. ASD children with GI comorbidities have more serious core symptoms than ASD children without GI comorbidities. VAD comorbid with GI symptoms aggravates autistic children's core symptoms. We speculate that VAD might be related to a subtype of ASD that involves GI comorbidities. We believe that our findings will be of fundamental importance to the scientific community.
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Li Q, Liang J, Fu N, Han Y, Qin J. A Ketogenic Diet and the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:650624. [PMID: 34046374 PMCID: PMC8146910 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.650624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by stereotyped behavior and deficits in communication and social interaction. There are no curative treatments for children with ASD. The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, appropriate-protein, and low-carbohydrate diet that mimics the fasting state of the body and is proven beneficial in drug-resistant epilepsy and some other brain diseases. An increasing number of studies demonstrated that a KD improved autistic behavior, but the underlying mechanisms are not known. We reviewed the neuroprotective role of a KD in ASD, which is likely mediated via improvements in energy metabolism, reductions in antioxidative stress levels, control of neurotransmitters, inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, and modulation of the gut microbiota. A KD is likely a safe and effective treatment for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinrui Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Na Fu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiong Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
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23
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Nadeem A, Ahmad SF, Al-Harbi NO, Al-Ayadhi LY, Attia SM, Alasmari AF, As Sobeai HM, Bakheet SA. Ubiquitous plasticizer, Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate enhances existing inflammatory profile in monocytes of children with autism. Toxicology 2020; 446:152597. [PMID: 32991955 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Genetic as well as environmental factors are believed to play a significant role in the pathogenesis and progression of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental contaminants as they are used plasticizers in several household/industrial products such as vinyl flooring, plastic toys, and cosmetic products. One of the plasticizers that is quite prevalent in these products is di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) which can cause human exposure via dermal/inhalation/ingestion routes. DEHP and its metabolites are associated with behavioral dysregulations and reported to be increased in systemic circulation of ASD children. DEHP is reported to cause upregulation of several inflammatory cytokines in different cells/tissues, however its role in inflammatory signaling of ASD monocytes has not been investigated earlier. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of DEHP (at 5 μM final concentration for 24 h) on inflammatory profile (NFkB, STAT3, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β) in monocytes of ASD subjects and typically developing control (TDC) children. Our data show that DEHP upregulates NFkB/STAT3 expression which is associated with increased inflammatory profile in monocytes of ASD and TDC subjects, however its effect is much greater in magnitude in the former group. This was confirmed by utilization of NFkB inhibitor, PDTC and STAT3 inhibitor, Stattic which caused reduction in inflammatory cytokines from DEHP-treated monocytes in ASD group. In short, DEHP causes further elevation in inflammatory signaling in ASD monocytes which could be due to existing inflammation in this group. These data suggest that use of plasticizers such as DEHP should be minimized in order to avoid their potential effects on immune dysfunction associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif O Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Y Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, AL-Amodi Autism Research Chair, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah F Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Homood M As Sobeai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Koga F, Kitagami S, Izumi A, Uemura T, Takayama O, Koga T, Mizoguchi T. Relationship between nutrition and reproduction. Reprod Med Biol 2020; 19:254-264. [PMID: 32684824 PMCID: PMC7360971 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, the relationship between nutrition and reproduction is being studied. In particular, when older women receive reproductive treatment, egg aging causes greater problems than organic factors. METHODS This study investigated the relationship between nutrition and reproduction with a focus on factors that cause aging, including oxidation, glycation, and chronic inflammation. A large volume of data concerning each nutrient's relationship with reproductive medicine was collected from a number of observational studies. MAIN FINDINGS The results showed that refined carbohydrates should be avoided and care should be taken to achieve proper intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Folic acid and vitamin D were also effective. For men, antioxidant measures are especially effective. The effects of antioxidants are related to insulin resistance, which causes chronic inflammation. CONCLUSION Recent research has shown that rather than meal content, meal intervals are more important for improving insulin resistance. Future research should examine lifestyle-related nutrition factors and their relationships to reproductive treatment.
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Relationship between Vitamin Deficiencies and Co-Occurring Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56050245. [PMID: 32443822 PMCID: PMC7279218 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56050245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recently, connections have been made between feeding and eating problems and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and between autism pathophysiology and diet issues. These could explain some of the mechanisms which have not yet been discovered or are not sufficiently characterized. Moreover, there is an increased awareness for micronutrients in ASD due to the presence of gastrointestinal (GI) problems that can be related to feeding issues. For example, levels of vitamins B1, B6, B12, A and D are often reported to be low in ASD children. Thus, in the present mini review we focused on describing the impact of some vitamins deficiencies and their relevance in ASD patients.
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Hirokawa K, Kimura T, Ikehara S, Honjo K, Ueda K, Sato T, Iso H. Associations Between Broader Autism Phenotype and Dietary Intake: A Cross-Sectional Study (Japan Environment & Children's Study). J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2698-2709. [PMID: 31997059 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04380-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate associations of dietary intake including vitamin D, folate, and n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in pregnant women with broad autism phenotype (BAP). The Japan Environment and Children's Study is a government-funded birth cohort study. All complete data of 92,011 were analyzed. The Japanese version of the Autism Spectrum Quotient was used to assess mothers' BAP level, and a food frequency questionnaire was used to estimate their dietary intake. Mothers with BAP consumed less vegetables, fruits, and fish and shellfish, and they consumed lower folate, vitamin C, vitamin D, and n-3 PUFA than their counterparts. Dietary intervention should be considered for pregnant women with high BAP scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumi Hirokawa
- Department of Nursing, Baika Women's University, 2-19-5 Shukunosho, Ibaraki, Osaka, 567-8578, Japan. .,Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Takashi Kimura
- Department of Public Health, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Satoyo Ikehara
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kaori Honjo
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Social and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kimiko Ueda
- Osaka Maternal and Child Health Information Center, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Izumi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takuyo Sato
- Osaka Maternal and Child Health Information Center, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Izumi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Iso
- Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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ATEŞ-ŞAHİNKAYA N, ACAR-TEK N, DIGÜZEL E. The association between maternal features and nutritional problems in children with autism spectrum disorder. REV NUTR 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-9865202033e190217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective In the literature, there is almost no data on the relationship between autistic children’s nutritional problems and their mothers’ demographic and nutritional characteristics. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate whether there was a relationship between maternal features and nutritional problems in autistic children. Methods This study was conducted with the participation of 58 autistic children (6-19 years) and their mothers. Descriptive data were obtained with a general questionnaire. For the evaluation of children’s nutritional status, anthropometric measurements and 24-hour dietary recall were used. Also, the Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory and ORTO-15 questionnaires were used to evaluate the meal behavior of children and orthorexia tendency of mothers, respectively. Results No significant correlation was found between the Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory scores in children of mothers with high and low orthorexia tendency. There were also no statistically significant differences between the children of mothers with high and low educational level in terms of Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory scores. Only the dietary vitamin B6 intake was significantly higher in the children of mothers with high educational level. Maternal age was associated with the dietary energy and protein intake, unlike, maternal orthorexia tendency was not associated with the nutritional status and meal behavior of children. The abdominal pain experience in the last one month was found to be significantly higher in the children of employed mothers than children of unemployed mothers. Conclusion It is thought that the maternal characteristics are not effective on meal behavior in children and also maternal age and educational status have a very limited effect on the nutritional status of children.
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Karhu E, Zukerman R, Eshraghi RS, Mittal J, Deth RC, Castejon AM, Trivedi M, Mittal R, Eshraghi AA. Nutritional interventions for autism spectrum disorder. Nutr Rev 2019; 78:515-531. [DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuz092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an increasingly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder with considerable clinical heterogeneity. With no cure for the disorder, treatments commonly center around speech and behavioral therapies to improve the characteristic social, behavioral, and communicative symptoms of ASD. Gastrointestinal disturbances are commonly encountered comorbidities that are thought to be not only another symptom of ASD but to also play an active role in modulating the expression of social and behavioral symptoms. Therefore, nutritional interventions are used by a majority of those with ASD both with and without clinical supervision to alleviate gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms. Despite a considerable interest in dietary interventions, no consensus exists regarding optimal nutritional therapy. Thus, patients and physicians are left to choose from a myriad of dietary protocols. This review, summarizes the state of the current clinical and experimental literature on nutritional interventions for ASD, including gluten-free and casein-free, ketogenic, and specific carbohydrate diets, as well as probiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and dietary supplements (vitamins A, C, B6, and B12; magnesium and folate).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Karhu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Ryan Zukerman
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Rebecca S Eshraghi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Jeenu Mittal
- Department of Otolaryngology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Richard C Deth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Ana M Castejon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Malav Trivedi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
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Gillera SEA, Marinello WP, Horman BM, Phillips AL, Ruis MT, Stapleton HM, Reif DM, Patisaul HB. Sex-specific effects of perinatal FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) exposure on socioemotional behavior in prairie voles. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2019; 79:106840. [PMID: 31730801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2019.106840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly rising incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders with social deficits is raising concern that developmental exposure to environmental contaminants may be contributory. Firemaster 550 (FM 550) is one of the most prevalent flame-retardant (FR) mixtures used in foam-based furniture and baby products and contains both brominated and organophosphate components. We and others have published evidence of developmental neurotoxicity and sex specific effects of FM 550 on anxiety-like and exploratory behaviors. Using a prosocial animal model, we investigated the impact of perinatal FM 550 exposure on a range of socioemotional behaviors including anxiety, attachment, and memory. Virtually unknown to toxicologists, but widely used in the behavioral neurosciences, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) is a uniquely valuable model organism for examining environmental factors on sociality because this species is spontaneously prosocial, biparental, and displays attachment behaviors including pair bonding. Dams were exposed to 0, 500, 1000, or 2000 μg of FM 550 via subcutaneous (sc) injections throughout gestation, and pups were directly exposed beginning the day after birth until weaning. Adult offspring of both sexes were then subjected to multiple tasks including open field, novel object recognition, and partner preference. Effects were dose responsive and sex-specific, with females more greatly affected. Exposure-related outcomes in females included elevated anxiety, decreased social interaction, decreased exploratory motivation, and aversion to novelty. Exposed males also had social deficits, with males in all three dose groups failing to show a partner preference. Our studies demonstrate the utility of the prairie vole for investigating the impact of chemical exposures on social behavior and support the hypothesis that developmental FR exposure impacts the social brain. Future studies will probe the possible mechanisms by which these effects arise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Matthew T Ruis
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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Soke GN, Maenner M, Windham G, Moody E, Kaczaniuk J, DiGuiseppi C, Schieve LA. Association Between Breastfeeding Initiation and Duration and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Preschool Children Enrolled in the Study to Explore Early Development. Autism Res 2019; 12:816-829. [PMID: 30852853 PMCID: PMC7723061 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Studies report inconsistent findings on the relationship between ASD and breastfeeding. We explored associations between ASD and breastfeeding initiation (yes/no) and duration (months categorized in tertiles) in the Study to Explore Early Development, a community-based case-control study in six sites in the Unites States. We adjusted for various child and mother demographic and pregnancy factors. Breastfeeding initiation was reported in 85.7% of mothers of children with ASD and 90.6% of mothers of controls. After adjustment, we found no significant difference in breastfeeding initiation (adjusted odds-ratio [aOR]: 0.88 and 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.60-1.28). However, mothers of children with ASD were less likely to report duration of breastfeeding in the high (≥12 months) versus low tertile (<6 months) (aOR and 95% CI: 0.61 [0.45-0.84]) or the middle (6-<12 months) versus low tertile (0.72: 0.54-0.98). The association of ASD and breastfeeding duration was slightly attenuated when the presence of the broader autism phenotype (BAP) in the mother was accounted for, but still remained for the highest tertile. This association does not appear to be totally explained by maternal BAP. We were unable to distinguish whether the difference in duration was due to difficulties breastfeeding children who later develop ASD, other factors not adjusted in our study, or greater ASD risk resulting from shorter breastfeeding duration. Longitudinal studies that compare reasons why mothers stop breastfeeding between ASD and controls and establish a temporal relation between ASD and breastfeeding are needed. Future studies should also evaluate interactions between ASD risk genes and breastfeeding. Autism Research 2019, 12: 816-829. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: In this study, we compared breastfeeding practices between mothers of children with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We found that the percentage of mothers who started breastfeeding was similar between the two groups, but mothers of children with ASD breastfed for a shorter amount of time compared to mothers of children without ASD. Future studies are needed to evaluate the reasons why the duration of breastfeeding was shorter for mothers of children with ASD compared to those without ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gnakub N Soke
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development, Epidemic Intelligence Service, Atlanta, Georgia
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Matthew Maenner
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Gayle Windham
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California
| | - Eric Moody
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jamie Kaczaniuk
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carolyn DiGuiseppi
- Colorado School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Laura A Schieve
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Atlanta, Georgia
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Zhang P, Georgiou CA, Brusic V. Elemental metabolomics. Brief Bioinform 2019; 19:524-536. [PMID: 28077402 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbw131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Elemental metabolomics is quantification and characterization of total concentration of chemical elements in biological samples and monitoring of their changes. Recent advances in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry have enabled simultaneous measurement of concentrations of > 70 elements in biological samples. In living organisms, elements interact and compete with each other for absorption and molecular interactions. They also interact with proteins and nucleotide sequences. These interactions modulate enzymatic activities and are critical for many molecular and cellular functions. Testing for concentration of > 40 elements in blood, other bodily fluids and tissues is now in routine use in advanced medical laboratories. In this article, we define the basic concepts of elemental metabolomics, summarize standards and workflows, and propose minimum information for reporting the results of an elemental metabolomics experiment. Major statistical and informatics tools for elemental metabolomics are reviewed, and examples of applications are discussed. Elemental metabolomics is emerging as an important new technology with applications in medical diagnostics, nutrition, agriculture, food science, environmental science and multiplicity of other areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhang
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD Australia
| | - Constantinos A Georgiou
- Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Vladimir Brusic
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD Australia.,School of Medicine and Bioinformatics Center, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
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Rim SJ, Park S, Lee Y, Kim CE. Mental Health Literacy of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Korea: Recognition, Etiology, Treatment. Psychiatry Investig 2019; 16:213-219. [PMID: 30934189 PMCID: PMC6444099 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2019.01.10.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the Korean public's recognition of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), revealing underlying factors regarding perception relative to etiology and treatment of ASD, and examining variables related to those factors. METHODS An online survey was held to investigate mental health literacy (MHL) on ASD of the general public in Korea. A total of 673 adults participated and completed questionnaires on socio-demographic characteristics and if they know someone with ASD. Next, participants were provided with a vignette describing a child with ASD. Only those that recognized there was a problem with the child moved to the next part which asked their perception regarding etiology and treatment of ASD. RESULTS According to our study, approximately 25% of participants correctly recognized the child in the vignette as having ASD. Perception regarding etiology and treatment of ASD varied among socio-demographic characteristics. Participants acquainted with someone with ASD and correctly recognized ASD held mixed perception regarding cause and treatment. CONCLUSION This study investigated MHL of ASD in Korea. The result reveals there is much room for improvement relative to raising awareness on MHL of ASD. Intervention considering socio-demographic characteristics and acquaintance with ASD are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Jung Rim
- Clinical Research Center, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Subin Park
- Clinical Research Center, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeeun Lee
- Clinical Research Center, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul Eung Kim
- Clinical Research Center, Mental Health Research Institute, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Sex Differences in the Effects of Prenatal Bisphenol A Exposure on Genes Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Hippocampus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3038. [PMID: 30816183 PMCID: PMC6395584 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39386-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder inexplicably biased towards males. Although prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) has recently been associated with the ASD risk, whether BPA dysregulates ASD-related genes in the developing brain remains unclear. In this study, transcriptome profiling by RNA-seq analysis of hippocampi isolated from neonatal pups prenatally exposed to BPA was conducted and revealed a list of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with ASD. Among the DEGs, several ASD candidate genes, including Auts2 and Foxp2, were dysregulated and showed sex differences in response to BPA exposure. The interactome and pathway analyses of DEGs using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software revealed significant associations between the DEGs in males and neurological functions/disorders associated with ASD. Moreover, the reanalysis of transcriptome profiling data from previously published BPA studies consistently showed that BPA-responsive genes were significantly associated with ASD-related genes. The findings from this study indicate that prenatal BPA exposure alters the expression of ASD-linked genes in the hippocampus and suggest that maternal BPA exposure may increase ASD susceptibility by dysregulating genes associated with neurological functions known to be negatively impacted in ASD, which deserves further investigations.
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Zou M, Sun C, Liang S, Sun Y, Li D, Li L, Fan L, Wu L, Xia W. Fisher discriminant analysis for classification of autism spectrum disorders based on folate-related metabolism markers. J Nutr Biochem 2019; 64:25-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2018.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Guo M, Li L, Zhang Q, Chen L, Dai Y, Liu L, Feng J, Cai X, Cheng Q, Chen J, Wei H, Li T. Vitamin and mineral status of children with autism spectrum disorder in Hainan Province of China: associations with symptoms. Nutr Neurosci 2018; 23:803-810. [PMID: 30570388 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2018.1558762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This study was designed to compare the vitamin and mineral levels of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) with those of age-matched typically developing (TD) children and to investigate their effects on the symptoms of autistic children. Methods: The Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) and Gesell Developmental Scale (GDS) were completed for 274 children diagnosed with ASD. Vitamins and minerals were compared for all ASD children and 97 age-matched TD children. Serum levels of vitamin A (VA) were detected with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC); those of vitamin D (VD), folate, vitamin B12 (VB12), and ferritin were measured with immunoassay methods; and those of minerals were detected using atomic absorption spectrophotometry in two groups. Results: The VD and folate levels of children with ASD were significantly lower than those of TD children. The levels of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) in children with ASD were significantly lower than those in TD children, and no significant difference was found in copper (Cu) levels. Correlation analysis showed that VA and Ca levels were negatively correlated with ASD symptoms. Folate, Ca, Fe and Zn were positively correlated with the GDS scores of autistic children. There were no significant interactions among VD, VB12 and ferritin and symptoms. Conclusion: We found that children with autism had more vitamin and mineral insufficiencies than TD children, and their levels were related to ASD symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to formulate a detailed nutritional evaluation for ASD children and provide timely and intensive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Guo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Li
- Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Hainan Province, Haikou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Dai
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyan Liu
- Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Hainan Province, Haikou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianqing Feng
- Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Hainan Province, Haikou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofan Cai
- Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Hainan Province, Haikou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Cheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Wei
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingyu Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children Nutrition Research Center, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Nutrition and Health, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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Altun H, Kurutaş EB, Şahin N, Güngör O, Fındıklı E. The Levels of Vitamin D, Vitamin D Receptor, Homocysteine and Complex B Vitamin in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2018; 16:383-390. [PMID: 30466210 PMCID: PMC6245292 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2018.16.4.383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental syndrome with an increasingly prevalent etiology, yet not fully understood. It has been thought that vitamin D, complex B vitamin levels and homocysteine are associated with environmental factors and are important in ASD. The aim of this study was to examine serum vitamin D, vitamin D receptor (VDR), homocysteine, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folate levels in ASD. Methods In this study, serum vitamin D and VDR, homocysteine, vitamins B6, B12 and folate levels were determined in 60 patients with ASD (aged 3 to 12 years) and in 45 age-gender matched healthy controls. In addition, calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase, which are associated with vitamin D metabolism, were measured from serum in both groups. ASD severity was evaluted by the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Results Serum vitamin D and VDR were substantially reduced in patients with ASD in comparision to control group. However, homocysteine level was significantly higher and vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folate were also reduced in patients with ASD. Total CARS score showed a positive association with homocysteine and a negative correlation with vitamins D,B6, B12, folate and VDR. Conclusion This comprehensive study, which examines many parameters has shown that low serum levels of vitamins D, B6, B12, folate and VDR as well as high homocysteine are important in the etiopathogenesis of ASD. However, further studies are required to define the precise mechanism(s) of these parameters and their contributions to the etiology and treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatice Altun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Ergül Belge Kurutaş
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Nilfer Şahin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Olcay Güngör
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Ebru Fındıklı
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
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Diagnostic and Severity-Tracking Biomarkers for Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2018; 66:492-511. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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38
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Aydemir I, Kum Ş, Tuğlu Mİ. Histological investigations on thymus of male rats prenatally exposed to bisphenol A. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 206:1-8. [PMID: 29723747 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.04.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A is called as a endocrine-distrupting chemical because of the its steroid-like activity and it used in the construction of plastic containing materials. It is indicated that bisphenol A can pass the human serum, urine, follicular fluid, placenta and umblical cord as a result of the use of substances containing this agent. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of bisphenol A on the development of the thymus, a primary lymphoid organ which plays an important role in the specific immunity. The adult pregnant female rats were administered orally with bisphenol A (for 21 days) and postnatal thymus samples were obtained on day 21, 45 and 90 and were performed for histochemical and immunohistochemical staining for CD3, CD4, CD8 and CD79a and TUNEL assay for the apoptotic cells. Evaluation of all groups, CD3, CD4, CD8 and CD79a stainings were decreased in the experimental groups compared with control group. The apoptotic cells were determined in the all groups on day 90 as a result of the thymus involution. It is noted that there was not any histological and morphological damages in the rats prenatally exposed the bisphenol A. The effect of the bisphenol A is unknown in the future, but there is no problem in the adult rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Işıl Aydemir
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Niğde, Turkey.
| | - Şadiye Kum
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Mehmet İbrahim Tuğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Manisa Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey
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Wang X, Kery R, Xiong Q. Synaptopathology in autism spectrum disorders: Complex effects of synaptic genes on neural circuits. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:398-415. [PMID: 28986278 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxing Wang
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Rachel Kery
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Qiaojie Xiong
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are compounds that alter the structure and function of the endocrine system and may be contributing to disorders of the reproductive, metabolic, neuroendocrine and other complex systems. Typically, these outcomes cannot be modeled in cell-based or other simple systems necessitating the use of animal testing. Appropriate animal model selection is required to effectively recapitulate the human experience, including relevant dosing and windows of exposure, and ensure translational utility and reproducibility. While classical toxicology heavily relies on inbred rats and mice, and focuses on apical endpoints such as tumor formation or birth defects, EDC researchers have used a greater diversity of species to effectively model more subtle but significant outcomes such as changes in pubertal timing, mammary gland development, and social behaviors. Advances in genomics, neuroimaging and other tools are making a wider range of animal models more widely available to EDC researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather B Patisaul
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
| | - Suzanne E Fenton
- Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), NTP Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institute of Health (NIH), Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - David Aylor
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, Bioinformatics Research Center, W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
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41
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Cristiano C, Lama A, Lembo F, Mollica MP, Calignano A, Mattace Raso G. Interplay Between Peripheral and Central Inflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Possible Nutritional and Therapeutic Strategies. Front Physiol 2018; 9:184. [PMID: 29563885 PMCID: PMC5845898 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre- and post-natal factors can affect brain development and function, impacting health outcomes with particular relevance to neurodevelopmental diseases, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Maternal obesity and its associated complications have been related to the increased risk of ASDs in offspring. Indeed, animals exposed to maternal obesity or high fat diets are prone to social communication impairment and repetitive behavior, the hallmarks of autism. During development, fatty acids and sugars, as well as satiety hormones, like insulin and leptin, and inflammatory factors related to obesity-induced low grade inflammation, could play a role in the impairment of neuroendocrine system and brain neuronal circuits regulating behavior in offspring. On the other side, post-natal factors, such as mode of delivery, stress, diet, or antibiotic treatment are associated to a modification of gut microbiota composition, perturbing microbiota-gut-brain axis. Indeed, the interplay between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system not only occurs through neural, hormonal, and immune pathways, but also through microbe-derived metabolic products. The modification of unhealthy perinatal and postnatal environment, manipulation of gut microbiota, nutritional, and dietary interventions could represent possible strategies in preventing or limiting ASDs, through targeting inflammatory process and gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cristiano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Adriano Lama
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Lembo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria P Mollica
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Calignano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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42
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Tseng PT, Cheng YS, Chen YW, Stubbs B, Whiteley P, Carvalho AF, Li DJ, Chen TY, Yang WC, Tang CH, Chu CS, Yang WC, Liang HY, Wu CK, Yen CF, Lin PY. Peripheral iron levels in children with autism spectrum disorders vs controls: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Guo M, Zhu J, Yang T, Lai X, Lei Y, Chen J, Li T. Vitamin A and vitamin D deficiencies exacerbate symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorders. Nutr Neurosci 2018; 22:637-647. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1423268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Min Guo
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang Zhu
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Yang
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Lai
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxi Lei
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Chen
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingyu Li
- Children Nutrition Research Center, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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Schofield K. The Metal Neurotoxins: An Important Role in Current Human Neural Epidemics? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:E1511. [PMID: 29206191 PMCID: PMC5750929 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14121511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Many published studies have illustrated that several of the present day neurological epidemics (autism, attention deficit disorder, Alzheimer's) cannot be correlated to any single neurotoxicant. However, the present scientific examination of the numerous global blood monitoring databases for adults that include the concentrations of the neurotoxic elements, aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), and selenium (Se) clearly indicate that, when considered in combination, for some, the human body may become easily over-burdened. This can be explained by changes in modern lifestyles. Similar data, solely for pregnant women, have been examined confirming this. All these elements are seen to be present in the human body and at not insignificant magnitudes. Currently suggested minimum risk levels (MRL) for humans are discussed and listed together with averages of the reported distributions, together with their spread and maximum values. One observation is that many distributions for pregnant women are not too dissimilar from those of general populations. Women obviously have their individual baseline of neurotoxin values before pregnancy and any efforts to modify this to any significant degree is not yet clearly apparent. For any element, distribution shapes are reasonably similar showing broad distributions with extended tails with numerous outlier values. There are a certain fraction of people that lie well above the MRL values and may be at risk, especially if genetically susceptible. Additionally, synergistic effects between neurotoxins and with other trace metals are now also being reported. It appears prudent for women of child-bearing age to establish their baseline values well before pregnancy. Those at risk then can be better identified. Adequate instrumental testing now is commercially available for this. In addition, directives are necessary for vaccination programs to use only non-neurotoxic adjuvants, especially for young children and all women of child-bearing ages. Additionally, clearer directives concerning fish consumption must now be reappraised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Schofield
- Materials Research Laboratory, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-5121, USA.
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45
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Tseng PT, Chen YW, Stubbs B, Carvalho AF, Whiteley P, Tang CH, Yang WC, Chen TY, Li DJ, Chu CS, Yang WC, Liang HY, Wu CK, Yen CF, Lin PY. Maternal breastfeeding and autism spectrum disorder in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Neurosci 2017; 22:354-362. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1388598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Tao Tseng
- Department of Psychiatry, Tsyr-Huey Mental Hospital, Kaohsiung Jen-Ai’s Home, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Wen Chen
- Department of Neurology, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Physiotherapy Department, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, London, UK
- Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Andre F. Carvalho
- Translational Psychiatry Research Group and Department of Clinical Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Prof. Costa Mendes, 1608, 4° andar, 60430-040, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Paul Whiteley
- ESPA Research, 2A Hylton Park Road, Sunderland SR5 3HD, UK
| | - Chia-Hung Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, Tainan hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Cheng Yang
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Municipal Kai-Syuan Psychiatric Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Yu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Tri-Service General Hospital; School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Dian-Jeng Li
- Department of Addiction Science, Kaohsiung Municipal Kai-Syuan Psychiatric Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Che-Sheng Chu
- Department of Psychiatry, Puli Branch, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Nantou County, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chieh Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, DA-AN Women and Children Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Liang
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Taoyuan and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Kuan Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, Tsyr-Huey Mental Hospital, Kaohsiung Jen-Ai’s Home, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, and Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Yen Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
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46
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Piven J, Elison JT, Zylka MJ. Toward a conceptual framework for early brain and behavior development in autism. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:1385-1394. [PMID: 28937691 PMCID: PMC5621737 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Studies of infant siblings of older autistic probands, who are at elevated risk for autism, have demonstrated that the defining features of autism are not present in the first year of life but emerge late in the first and into the second year. A recent longitudinal neuroimaging study of high-risk siblings revealed a specific pattern of brain development in infants later diagnosed with autism, characterized by cortical surface area hyper-expansion in the first year followed by brain volume overgrowth in the second year that is associated with the emergence of autistic social deficits. Together with new observations from genetically defined autism risk alleles and rodent model, these findings suggest a conceptual framework for the early, post-natal development of autism. This framework postulates that an increase in the proliferation of neural progenitor cells and hyper-expansion of cortical surface area in the first year, occurring during a pre-symptomatic period characterized by disrupted sensorimotor and attentional experience, leads to altered experience-dependent neuronal development and decreased elimination of neuronal processes. This process is linked to brain volume overgrowth and disruption of the refinement of neural circuit connections and is associated with the emergence of autistic social deficits in the second year of life. A better understanding of the timing of developmental brain and behavior mechanisms in autism during infancy, a period which precedes the emergence of the defining features of this disorder, will likely have important implications for designing rational approaches to early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Piven
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA,Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA,Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, The University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Campus Box 7255, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7255, USA. E-mail:
| | - J T Elison
- Institute of Child Development and Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - M J Zylka
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA,Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, and UNC Neuroscience Center, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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47
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MÁČOVÁ L, BIČÍKOVÁ M, OSTATNÍKOVÁ D, HILL M, STÁRKA L. Vitamin D, Neurosteroids and Autism. Physiol Res 2017; 66:S333-S340. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D had been for a long time investigated for its effects on bone metabolism. Recently has been observed that the incidence of some neurodevelopmental disorders (including autism) increases hand in hand with vitamin D deficiency. Indeed, vitamin D was reported to modulate the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors; moreover, its receptor was found in the central nervous system. Vitamin D deficiency was therefore assessed as a risk factor for autism, however the biological mechanism has not yet been revealed. In our review we focused on potential connections among vitamin D, steroids and autism. Potential mechanisms of vitamin D action are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. MÁČOVÁ
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
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48
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Dai X, Yin Y, Qin L. Valproic acid exposure decreases the mRNA stability of Bcl-2 via up-regulating miR-34a in the cerebellum of rat. Neurosci Lett 2017; 657:159-165. [PMID: 28803955 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, limited verbal communication and repetitive behaviors. Previous studies have shown that the level of Bcl-2 in the brain tissues of ASD patients is significantly decreased. However, the mechanisms underlie the down-regulation of Bcl-2 in ASD is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the alteration of Bcl-2 level and associated mechanisms in valproic acid (VPA) exposed ASD rats. VPA exposure resulted in ASD-like behaviors in rats, such as repetitive behavior and social interaction impairment. VPA exposure also down-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 both at mRNA and protein levels, either in cerebellar cortex or primary cerebellar cortical neuronal cells. Furthermore, VPA treatment decreased the mRNA stability of Bcl-2 instead of down-regulating its transcriptional activity. Meanwhile, VPA exposure up-regulated the expression of miR-34a in cerebellar cortex and primary cerebellar cortical neuronal cells. The mimics of miR-34a directly inhibited the expression of Bcl-2 and its antagonist blocked the down-regulation effect of VPA on Bcl-2 in primary cerebellar cortical neuronal cells. Our study implies that VPA may influence ASD through sequential up-regulating miR-34a and therefore down-regulating Bcl-2 in the brain tissues of rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xufang Dai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Psychological Diagnosis and Educational Technology for Children with Special Needs, Chongqing, 400047, China; College of Education Science, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 400047, China.
| | - Yunhou Yin
- Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Liyan Qin
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Southwest Hospital of Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
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49
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Beaudet AL. Brain carnitine deficiency causes nonsyndromic autism with an extreme male bias: A hypothesis. Bioessays 2017; 39. [PMID: 28703319 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201700012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Could 10-20% of autism be prevented? We hypothesize that nonsyndromic or "essential" autism involves extreme male bias in infants who are genetically normal, but they develop deficiency of carnitine and perhaps other nutrients in the brain causing autism that may be amenable to early reversal and prevention. That brain carnitine deficiency might cause autism is suggested by reports of severe carnitine deficiency in autism and by evidence that TMLHE deficiency - a defect in carnitine biosynthesis - is a risk factor for autism. A gene on the X chromosome (SLC6A14) likely escapes random X-inactivation (a mixed epigenetic and genetic regulation) and could limit carnitine transport across the blood-brain barrier in boys compared to girls. A mixed, common gene variant-environment hypothesis is proposed with diet, minor illnesses, microbiome, and drugs as possible risk modifiers. The hypothesis can be tested using animal models and by a trial of carnitine supplementation in siblings of probands. Perhaps the lack of any Recommended Dietary Allowance for carnitine in infants should be reviewed. Also see the video abstract here: https://youtu.be/BuRH_jSjX5Y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Beaudet
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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50
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Abstract
An increasing amount of evidence points to the possibility that gestational and early childhood vitamin D deficiency [25(OH)D < 40 ng/ml] cause some cases of autism. Vitamin D is metabolized into a seco-steroid hormone that regulates about 3% of the 26,000 genes in the coding human genome. It is also a neurosteroid that is active in brain development, having effects on cellular proliferation, differentiation, calcium signaling, neurotrophic and neuroprotective actions; it also appears to have an effect on neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. Children who are, or who are destined to become, autistic have lower 25(OH)D levels at 3 months of gestation, at birth and at age 8 compared to their unaffected siblings. Two open label trials found high dose vitamin D improves the core symptoms of autism in about 75% of autistic children. A few of the improvements were remarkable. The vitamin D doses used in these children were 300 IU/KG/day up to a maximum of 5000 IU/day (highest final 25(OH)D level reached was 45 ng/ml). The other study used 150,000 IU/month IM as well as 400 IU/day [highest final 25(OH)D level was 52 ng/ml]. These two open label trials were recently confirmed with a randomized controlled trial (RCT) using 300 IU/kg/day with a maximum of 5000 IU/day and resulted in effects similar to the two open label studies. In terms of prevention, a recent small study showed vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy (5000 IU/day) and during infancy and early childhood (1000 IU/day) significantly reduced the expected incidence of autism in mothers who already had one autistic child from 20% to 5%. Vitamin D is safe; for example, over the last 15 years, Poison Control reports there have been approximately 15,000 cases of vitamin D overdose. However only three of these 15,000 people developed clinical toxicity and no one died. Given those facts, practitioners might consider treating autism with 300 IU/kg/day, and seek to prevent autism by supplementing pregnant and lactating women (5000 IU/day) and infants and young children (150 IU/kg/day) checking 25(OH)D levels every 3 months. These doses will increase 25(OH)D blood levels to those recommended by the Endocrine Society. As the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends vitamin D supplementation during infancy and childhood, pediatricians and family practitioners should evaluate the current evidence on autism and vitamin D and act accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Jacob Cannell
- Vitamin D Council Inc., 1411 Marsh Street, Suite 203, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, USA.
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