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Erdogan MA, Nesil P, Altuntas I, Sirin C, Uyanikgil Y, Erbas O. Amelioration of propionic acid-induced autism spectrum disorder in rats through dapagliflozin: The role of IGF-1/IGFBP-3 and the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway. Neuroscience 2024; 554:16-25. [PMID: 39004410 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The biological effects of dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, reveal its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting therapeutic benefits beyond glycemic control. This study explores the neuroprotective effects of dapagliflozin in a rat model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) induced by propionic acid (PPA), characterized by social interaction deficits, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, cognitive impairments, and oxidative stress. Our research aims to find effective treatments for ASD, a condition with limited therapeutic options and significant impacts on individuals and families. PPA induces ASD-like symptoms in rodents, mimicking biochemical and behavioral features of human ASD. This study explores dapagliflozin's potential to mitigate these symptoms, providing insights into novel therapeutic avenues. The findings demonstrate that dapagliflozin enhances the activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant pathway and increases levels of neurotrophic and growth factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3). Additionally, dapagliflozin reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-17 (IL-17), and decreases the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA). Dapagliflozin's antioxidant properties support cognitive functions by modulating apoptotic mechanisms and enhancing antioxidant capacity. These combined effects contribute to reducing learning and memory impairments in PPA-induced ASD, highlighting dapagliflozin's potential as an adjunctive therapy for oxidative stress and inflammation-related cognitive decline in ASD. This study underscores the importance of exploring new therapeutic strategies targeting molecular pathways involved in the pathophysiology of ASD, potentially improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mumin Alper Erdogan
- Department of Physiology, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Pemra Nesil
- Istanbul University, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Cansın Sirin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ege University, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Yigit Uyanikgil
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ege University, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Oytun Erbas
- Demiroglu Bilim University, Department of Physiology, İstanbul, Turkey
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2
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Jyonouchi H. Autism spectrum disorder and a possible role of anti-inflammatory treatments: experience in the pediatric allergy/immunology clinic. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1333717. [PMID: 38979496 PMCID: PMC11228311 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1333717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD1) is a behaviorally defined syndrome encompassing a markedly heterogeneous patient population. Many ASD subjects fail to respond to the 1st line behavioral and pharmacological interventions, leaving parents to seek out other treatment options. Evidence supports that neuroinflammation plays a role in ASD pathogenesis. However, the underlying mechanisms likely vary for each ASD patient, influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Although anti-inflammatory treatment measures, mainly based on metabolic changes and oxidative stress, have provided promising results in some ASD subjects, the use of such measures requires the careful selection of ASD subjects based on clinical and laboratory findings. Recent progress in neuroscience and molecular immunology has made it possible to allow re-purposing of currently available anti-inflammatory medications, used for autoimmune and other chronic inflammatory conditions, as treatment options for ASD subjects. On the other hand, emerging anti-inflammatory medications, including biologic and gate-keeper blockers, exert powerful anti-inflammatory effects on specific mediators or signaling pathways. It will require both a keen understanding of the mechanisms of action of such agents and the careful selection of ASD patients suitable for each treatment. This review will attempt to summarize the use of anti-inflammatory agents already used in targeting ASD patients, and then emerging anti-inflammatory measures applicable for ASD subjects based on scientific rationale and clinical trial data, if available. In our experience, some ASD patients were treated under diagnoses of autoimmune/autoinflammatory conditions and/or post-infectious neuroinflammation. However, there are little clinical trial data specifically for ASD subjects. Therefore, these emerging immunomodulating agents for potential use for ASD subjects will be discussed based on preclinical data, case reports, or data generated in patients with other medical conditions. This review will hopefully highlight the expanding scope of immunomodulating agents for treating neuroinflammation in ASD subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harumi Jyonouchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Peter's University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers University-Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
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3
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Zhuang H, Liang Z, Ma G, Qureshi A, Ran X, Feng C, Liu X, Yan X, Shen L. Autism spectrum disorder: pathogenesis, biomarker, and intervention therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e497. [PMID: 38434761 PMCID: PMC10908366 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become a common neurodevelopmental disorder. The heterogeneity of ASD poses great challenges for its research and clinical translation. On the basis of reviewing the heterogeneity of ASD, this review systematically summarized the current status and progress of pathogenesis, diagnostic markers, and interventions for ASD. We provided an overview of the ASD molecular mechanisms identified by multi-omics studies and convergent mechanism in different genetic backgrounds. The comorbidities, mechanisms associated with important physiological and metabolic abnormalities (i.e., inflammation, immunity, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction), and gut microbial disorder in ASD were reviewed. The non-targeted omics and targeting studies of diagnostic markers for ASD were also reviewed. Moreover, we summarized the progress and methods of behavioral and educational interventions, intervention methods related to technological devices, and research on medical interventions and potential drug targets. This review highlighted the application of high-throughput omics methods in ASD research and emphasized the importance of seeking homogeneity from heterogeneity and exploring the convergence of disease mechanisms, biomarkers, and intervention approaches, and proposes that taking into account individuality and commonality may be the key to achieve accurate diagnosis and treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Zhuang
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Zhiyuan Liang
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Guanwei Ma
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Ayesha Qureshi
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xiaoqian Ran
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Chengyun Feng
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of BaoanShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xukun Liu
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Xi Yan
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and OceanographyShenzhen UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
- Shenzhen‐Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science‐Shenzhen Fundamental Research InstitutionsShenzhenP. R. China
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4
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Sallam DE, Shaker YS, Mostafa GA, El-Hossiny RM, Taha SI, Ahamed MAEH. Evaluation of serum interleukin-17 A and interleukin-22 levels in pediatric patients with autism spectrum disorder: a pilot study. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:18. [PMID: 38183030 PMCID: PMC10768424 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04484-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many neurodevelopmental abnormalities are connected to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which can result in inflammation and elevated cytokine levels due to immune system dysregulation. Interleukin (IL)-17 A and IL-22 have been linked to the regulation of host defense against pathogens at the barrier surface, the regeneration of injured tissue, and the integration of the neurological, endocrine, and immune systems. Several studies have investigated the possible connection between IL-17 A and ASD as well as the severity of behavioral symptoms, but few of them included IL-22. OBJECTIVES To measure serum levels of interleukin (IL)-17 A and IL-22 in children with ASD and to investigate their association with disease severity. METHODS This pilot study was performed on 24 children with ASD and 24 matched controls. Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) assessed ASD severity, and serum levels of IL-17 A and IL-22 were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS In ASD patients, serum levels of IL-17 A and IL-22 showed a significant increase compared to controls (p-values < 0.001). We compared serum levels of IL-17 A and IL-22 according to the severity categories by CARS and could not find any significant differences (p-values > 0.05). Only IL-22 had a significant positive correlation with ASD severity by CARS scores. CONCLUSIONS Raised serum levels of IL-17 A and IL-22 are associated with ASD; only IL-22, not IL-17 A, is correlated with ASD severity. This finding proposes IL-22 as a possible future effective target for ASD treatment. To fully comprehend the significance of these cytokines in ASD and their possible effects on ASD diagnosis and treatment, more research on a wider scale is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina E Sallam
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Abbasia, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Gehan A Mostafa
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy, and Immunology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reham M El-Hossiny
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Neuropsychiatric Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sara I Taha
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
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5
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Sullivan MI, Gupta MJ, Taylor KA, Van Mater HA, Pizoli CE. Disease Course and Response to Immunotherapy in Children With Childhood Disintegrative Disorder: A Retrospective Case Series. J Child Neurol 2024; 39:11-21. [PMID: 38115714 DOI: 10.1177/08830738231220278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Childhood disintegrative disorder is a poorly understood neurobehavioral disorder of early childhood characterized by acute to subacute profound regression in previously developed language, social behavior, and adaptive functions. The etiology of childhood disintegrative disorder remains unknown and treatment is focused on symptomatic management. Interest in neuroinflammatory mechanisms has grown with the increased recognition of autoimmune brain diseases and similarities between the presenting symptoms of childhood disintegrative disorder and pediatric autoimmune encephalitis. Importantly, a diagnosis of pediatric autoimmune encephalitis requires evidence of inflammation on paraclinical testing, which is absent in childhood disintegrative disorder. Here we report 5 children with childhood disintegrative disorder who were initially diagnosed with possible autoimmune encephalitis and treated with immunotherapy. Two children had provocative improvements, whereas 3 did not change significantly on immunotherapy. Additionally, a sixth patient with childhood disintegrative disorder evaluated in our Autoimmune Brain Disease Clinic showed spontaneous improvement and is included to highlight the variable natural history of childhood disintegrative disorder that may mimic treatment responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megha J Gupta
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kathryn A Taylor
- Division of Child Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Carolyn E Pizoli
- Division of Child Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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6
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Seker A, Qirko-Gurakuqi A, Tabaku M, Javate KRP, Rathwell I. Maternal atopic conditions and autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023:10.1007/s00787-023-02285-7. [PMID: 37661216 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02285-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a disabling neurodevelopmental condition with complex etiology. Emerging evidence has pointed to maternal atopy as a possible risk factor. It is hypothesized that maternal atopic disease during pregnancy can lead to increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in fetal circulation via placental transfer or increased production. These cytokines can then pass through the immature blood-brain barrier, causing aberrant neurodevelopment via mechanisms including premature microglial activation. The objective of this study is to systematically review observational studies that investigate whether a maternal history of atopic disease (asthma, allergy, or eczema/atopic dermatitis) is associated with a diagnosis of ASD in offspring. A search was conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Embase databases for relevant articles up to November 2021; this was later updated in January 2022. Observational studies published in peer-reviewed journals were included. Data were synthesized and qualitatively analyzed according to the specific atopic condition. Quality assessment was done using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Nine articles were identified, with all including asthma as an exposure, alongside four each for allergy and eczema. Findings were inconsistent regarding the association between a maternal diagnosis of either asthma, allergy, or eczema, and ASD in offspring, with variations in methodology contributing to the inconclusiveness. More consistent associations were demonstrated regarding maternal asthma that was treated or diagnosed during pregnancy. Evidence suggests that symptomatic maternal asthma during pregnancy could be associated with ASD in offspring, underscoring the importance of effective management of atopic conditions during pregnancy. Further research is needed, particularly longitudinal studies that use gold-standard assessment tools and correlate clinical outcomes with laboratory and treatment data.PROSPERO Registration Number and Date: CRD42018116656, 26.11.2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asilay Seker
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Anxhela Qirko-Gurakuqi
- Department of Biomedical and Experimental Subjects, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
| | - Mirela Tabaku
- Paediatric Department, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
| | - Kenneth Ross P Javate
- Department of Psychiatry, The Medical City Hospital, Manila, Philippines
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Ateneo de Manila University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Iris Rathwell
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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7
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Ferencova N, Visnovcova Z, Ondrejka I, Hrtanek I, Bujnakova I, Kovacova V, Macejova A, Tonhajzerova I. Peripheral Inflammatory Markers in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder at Adolescent Age. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11710. [PMID: 37511467 PMCID: PMC10380731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with immune dysregulation. We aimed to estimate the pro- and anti-inflammatory activity/balance in ASD and ADHD patients at a little-studied adolescent age with respect to sex. We evaluated 20 ASD patients (5 girls, average age: 12.4 ± 1.9 y), 20 ADHD patients (5 girls, average age: 13.4 ± 1.8 y), and 20 age- and gender-matched controls (average age: 13.2 ± 1.9 y). The evaluated parameters included (1) white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, platelets, platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume, and derived ratios, as well as (2) cytokines-interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and derived profiles and ratios. ASD adolescents showed higher levels of WBC, monocytes, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, macrophages (M)1 profile, and anti-inflammatory profile than the controls, with ASD males showing higher monocytes, IL-6 and IL-10, anti-inflammatory profile, and a lower T-helper (Th)1/Th2+T-regulatory cell ratio than control males. The ADHD adolescents showed higher levels of PDW, IL-1β and IL-6, TNF-α, M1 profile, proinflammatory profile, and pro-/anti-inflammatory ratio than the controls, with ADHD females showing a higher TNF-α and pro-/anti-inflammatory ratio than the control females and ADHD males showing higher levels of IL-1β and IL-6, TNF-α, and M1 profile than the control males. Immune dysregulation appeared to be different for both neurodevelopmental disorders in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Ferencova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Visnovcova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Igor Ondrejka
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Igor Hrtanek
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Iveta Bujnakova
- Society to Help People with Autism (SPOSA-Turiec), 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Kovacova
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Macejova
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ingrid Tonhajzerova
- Department of Physiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
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8
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Al-Ayadhi L, Bhat RS, Alghamdi FA, Alhadlaq AS, El-Ansary A. Influence of Auditory Integrative Training on Casein Kinase 2 and Its Impact on Behavioral and Social Interaction in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:4317-4330. [PMID: 37232743 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45050274] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable disturbances in post-translational protein phosphorylation have recently been discovered in multiple neurological disorders. Casein kinase-2 (CK2) is a tetrameric Ser/Thr protein kinase that phosphorylates a large number of substrates and contributes in several cellular physiological and pathological processes. CK2 is highly expressed in the mammalian brain and catalyzes the phosphorylation of a large number of substrates that are crucial in neuronal or glial homeostasis and inflammatory signaling processes across synapses. In this study, we investigated the impact of auditory integration therapy (AIT) for the treatment of sensory processing abnormalities in autism on plasma CK2 levels. A total of 25 ASD children, aged between 5 and 12 years, were enrolled and participated in the present research study. AIT was performed for two weeks, for a period of 30 min, twice a day, with a 3 h interval between sessions. Before and after AIT, the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and Short Sensory Profile (SSP) scores were calculated, and plasma CK2 levels were assayed using an ELISA test. The CARS and SRS indices of autism severity improved as a result of AIT, which could be related to the decreased level of plasma CK2. However, the mean value of the SSP scores was not significantly increased after AIT. The relationship between CK2 downregulation and glutamate excitotoxicity, neuro-inflammation, and leaky gut, as etiological mechanisms in ASD, was proposed and discussed. Further research, conducted on a larger scale and with a longer study duration, are required to assess whether the cognitive improvement in ASD children after AIT is related to the downregulation of CK2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh 12713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farah Ali Alghamdi
- College of Medicine, Dar Al Uloom University, Riyadh 13314, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh 12713, Saudi Arabia
- Autism Center, Lotus Holistic Medical Center, Abu Dhabi 110281, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Lan XY, Gu YY, Li MJ, Song TJ, Zhai FJ, Zhang Y, Zhan JS, Böckers TM, Yue XN, Wang JN, Yuan S, Jin MY, Xie YF, Dang WW, Hong HH, Guo ZR, Wang XW, Zhang R. Poly(I:C)-induced maternal immune activation causes elevated self-grooming in male rat offspring: Involvement of abnormal postpartum static nursing in dam. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1054381. [PMID: 37009477 PMCID: PMC10062710 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1054381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Maternal immune activation (MIA) is closely related to the onset of autism-like behaviors in offspring, but the mechanism remains unclear. Maternal behaviors can influence offspring’s development and behaviors, as indicated in both human and animal studies. We hypothesized that abnormal maternal behaviors in MIA dams might be other factors leading to delayed development and abnormal behaviors in offspring.Methods: To verify our hypothesis, we analyzed poly(I:C)-induced MIA dam’s postpartum maternal behavior and serum levels of several hormones related to maternal behavior. Pup’s developmental milestones and early social communication were recorded and evaluated in infancy. Other behavioral tests, including three-chamber test, self-grooming test, open field test, novel object recognition test, rotarod test and maximum grip test, were performed in adolescence of pups.Results: Our results showed that MIA dams exhibit abnormal static nursing behavior but normal basic care and dynamic nursing behavior. The serum levels of testosterone and arginine vasopressin in MIA dams were significantly reduced compared with control dams. The developmental milestones, including pinna detachment, incisor eruption and eye opening, were significantly delayed in MIA offspring compared with control offspring, while the weight and early social communication showed no significant differences between the two groups. Behavioral tests performed in adolescence showed that only male MIA offspring display elevated self-grooming behaviors and reduced maximum grip.Discussion: In conclusion, MIA dams display abnormal postpartum static nursing behavior concomitantly with reduced serum levels of testosterone and arginine vasopressin, possibly involving in the pathogenesis of delayed development and elevated self-grooming in male offspring. These findings hint that improving dam’s postpartum maternal behavior might be a potential regime to counteract delayed development and elevated self-grooming in male MIA offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yu Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - You-Yu Gu
- Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Juan Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tian-Jia Song
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-Jun Zhai
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiang-Shan Zhan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tobias M. Böckers
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Xiao-Nan Yue
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Health Bureau of Kenli District, Dongying, China
| | - Jia-Nan Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuo Yuan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Meng-Ying Jin
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Fei Xie
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Wan-Wen Dang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Heng Hong
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zi-Rui Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Wei Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Autism Research Center, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Rong Zhang,
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10
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Usui N, Kobayashi H, Shimada S. Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065487. [PMID: 36982559 PMCID: PMC10049423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by impairments in social communication, repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and hyperesthesia/hypesthesia caused by genetic and/or environmental factors. In recent years, inflammation and oxidative stress have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD. In this review, we discuss the inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of ASD, particularly focusing on maternal immune activation (MIA). MIA is a one of the common environmental risk factors for the onset of ASD during pregnancy. It induces an immune reaction in the pregnant mother’s body, resulting in further inflammation and oxidative stress in the placenta and fetal brain. These negative factors cause neurodevelopmental impairments in the developing fetal brain and subsequently cause behavioral symptoms in the offspring. In addition, we also discuss the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs and antioxidants in basic studies on animals and clinical studies of ASD. Our review provides the latest findings and new insights into the involvements of inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyoshi Usui
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-668-79-3124
| | - Hikaru Kobayashi
- SANKEN (Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research), Osaka University, Suita 567-0047, Japan
| | - Shoichi Shimada
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
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Singh R, Kisku A, Kungumaraj H, Nagaraj V, Pal A, Kumar S, Sulakhiya K. Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Recent Update on Targeting Inflammatory Pathways with Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agents. Biomedicines 2023; 11:115. [PMID: 36672623 PMCID: PMC9856079 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous category of developmental psychiatric disorders which is characterized by inadequate social interaction, less communication, and repetitive phenotype behavior. ASD is comorbid with various types of disorders. The reported prevalence is 1% in the United Kingdom, 1.5% in the United States, and ~0.2% in India at present. The natural anti-inflammatory agents on brain development are linked to interaction with many types of inflammatory pathways affected by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental variables. Inflammatory targeting pathways have already been linked to ASD. However, these routes are diluted, and new strategies are being developed in natural anti-inflammatory medicines to treat ASD. This review summarizes the numerous preclinical and clinical studies having potential protective effects and natural anti-inflammatory agents on the developing brain during pregnancy. Inflammation during pregnancy activates the maternal infection that likely leads to the development of neuropsychiatric disorders in the offspring. The inflammatory pathways have been an effective target for the subject of translational research studies on ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramu Singh
- Neuro Pharmacology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak 484887, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Anglina Kisku
- Neuro Pharmacology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak 484887, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Haripriya Kungumaraj
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, School of Art and Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Vini Nagaraj
- Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08554, USA
| | - Ajay Pal
- Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center (Center for Neural Rehabilitation and Repair), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Suneel Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Kunjbihari Sulakhiya
- Neuro Pharmacology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak 484887, Madhya Pradesh, India
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Shahlaei M, Saeidifar M, Zamanian A. Sustained release of sulforaphane by bioactive extracellular vesicles for neuroprotective effect on chick model. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2022; 110:2636-2648. [PMID: 35785470 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.35117] [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: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Novel studies have shown neurological treatment possibilities with extracellular vesicles (EVs) as natural particles with a special composition that are produced by different cell types. Their stability, natural structure, composition, and bioavailability make them good candidates as drug vehicles. Here, EVs were isolated from amniotic fluid (AF) through differential centrifugation, and characterized for size (<200 nm), structure, and composition, their effectiveness on the human PC12 cell line, and brain of chick embryos exposed to sodium valproate (animal autistic model). Sulforaphane (SFN) was employed as a bioactive compound and then encapsulated into Evs using three methods including passive (incubation), active (sonication), and active-passive (sonication-incubation). Further, the loading and in vitro releases of SFN fitted the Korsmeyer-Peppas (R2 = 0.99) kinetic model by non-Fickian diffusion case II (n = 0.44, passive loading) and Fickian diffusion case I (n = 0.41, active and active-passive loading). SFN-loaded EVs (SFN@EVs; 11 μM: 103 nM) stimulated hPC-12 cell proliferation. The gene expression analysis revealed that SFN@EVs could upregulate Nrf2 and reduce IL-6 expression. Eventually, histopathological results of the coronal cross-section of the chick embryos brain showed treatment with SFN@EVs. This treatment illustrated normality in the gray and white matter and the orientation of the bipolar neurons. Our findings showed EVs' potentially acting as a gene expression regulator in autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Shahlaei
- Department of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Materials and Energy Research Centre, Karaj, Iran
| | - Maryam Saeidifar
- Department of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Materials and Energy Research Centre, Karaj, Iran
| | - Ali Zamanian
- Department of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Materials and Energy Research Centre, Karaj, Iran
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13
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Dabbah-Assadi F, Handel R, Shamir A. What we know about the role of corticosteroids in psychiatric disorders; evidence from animal and clinical studies. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 155:363-370. [PMID: 36182765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Corticosteroids, often known as steroids, are anti-inflammatory medicine prescribed for various conditions. There is accumulating evidence of immune dysregulation in major psychiatric disorders. Significant changes in concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers (i.e., IL-6 and TNF-a) have been previously reported in individuals with schizophrenia, autistic individuals, and depressive patients. Thus, systemic corticosteroids can be used as an adjuvant treatment to reduce inflammation in major psychiatric disorders. However, despite their well-known potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties, this treatment is often associated with increased severity of several psychiatric symptoms and relapse. This article reviews the available literature on psychiatric and cognitive changes during corticosteroid therapy. Specifically, we will provide data on the good and the bad of corticosteroid therapy in autism, schizophrenia, mood disorders, and PTSD. This review will summarize the vital role of corticosteroid therapy in social and cognitive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadwa Dabbah-Assadi
- Psychobiology Research Laboratory, Mazor Mental Health Center, Akko, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ran Handel
- Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | - Alon Shamir
- Psychobiology Research Laboratory, Mazor Mental Health Center, Akko, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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14
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Lipid-Based Molecules on Signaling Pathways in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179803. [PMID: 36077195 PMCID: PMC9456412 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The signaling pathways associated with lipid metabolism contribute to the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and provide insights for devising new therapeutic strategies. Prostaglandin E2 is a membrane-derived lipid molecule that contributes to developing ASD associated with canonical Wnt signaling. Cyclooxygenase-2 plays a key role in neuroinflammation and is implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental diseases, such as ASD. The endocannabinoid system maintains a balance between inflammatory and redox status and synaptic plasticity and is a potential target for ASD pathophysiology. Redox signaling refers to specific and usually reversible oxidation–reduction reactions, some of which are also involved in pathways accounting for the abnormal behavior observed in ASD. Redox signaling and redox status-sensitive transcription factors contribute to the pathophysiology of ASD. Cannabinoids regulate the redox balance by altering the levels and activity of antioxidant molecules via ROS-producing NADPH oxidase (NOX) and ROS-scavenging superoxide dismutase enzymes. These signaling cascades integrate a broad range of neurodevelopmental processes that may be involved in the pathophysiology of ASD. Based on these pathways, we highlight putative targets that may be used for devising novel therapeutic interventions for ASD.
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15
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Trifiletti R, Lachman HM, Manusama O, Zheng D, Spalice A, Chiurazzi P, Schornagel A, Serban AM, van Wijck R, Cunningham JL, Swagemakers S, van der Spek PJ. Identification of ultra-rare genetic variants in pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) by exome and whole genome sequencing. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11106. [PMID: 35773312 PMCID: PMC9246359 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15279-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abrupt onset of severe neuropsychiatric symptoms including obsessive-compulsive disorder, tics, anxiety, mood swings, irritability, and restricted eating is described in children with Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). Symptom onset is often temporally associated with infections, suggesting an underlying autoimmune/autoinflammatory etiology, although direct evidence is often lacking. The pathological mechanisms are likely heterogeneous, but we hypothesize convergence on one or more biological pathways. Consequently, we conducted whole exome sequencing (WES) on a U.S. cohort of 386 cases, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) on ten cases from the European Union who were selected because of severe PANS. We focused on identifying potentially deleterious genetic variants that were de novo or ultra-rare (MAF) < 0.001. Candidate mutations were found in 11 genes (PPM1D, SGCE, PLCG2, NLRC4, CACNA1B, SHANK3, CHK2, GRIN2A, RAG1, GABRG2, and SYNGAP1) in 21 cases, which included two or more unrelated subjects with ultra-rare variants in four genes. These genes converge into two broad functional categories. One regulates peripheral immune responses and microglia (PPM1D, CHK2, NLRC4, RAG1, PLCG2). The other is expressed primarily at neuronal synapses (SHANK3, SYNGAP1, GRIN2A, GABRG2, CACNA1B, SGCE). Mutations in these neuronal genes are also described in autism spectrum disorder and myoclonus-dystonia. In fact, 12/21 cases developed PANS superimposed on a preexisting neurodevelopmental disorder. Genes in both categories are also highly expressed in the enteric nervous system and the choroid plexus. Thus, genetic variation in PANS candidate genes may function by disrupting peripheral and central immune functions, neurotransmission, and/or the blood-CSF/brain barriers following stressors such as infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Herbert M Lachman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Olivia Manusama
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Deyou Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Alberto Spalice
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Neurology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Chiurazzi
- Sezione di Medicina Genomica, Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, UOC Genetica Medica, Rome, Italy
| | - Allan Schornagel
- GGZ-Delfland, Kinderpraktijk Zoetermeer, Zoetermeer, The Netherlands
| | - Andreea M Serban
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rogier van Wijck
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janet L Cunningham
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sigrid Swagemakers
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J van der Spek
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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Whiteley P, Marlow B, Kapoor RR, Blagojevic-Stokic N, Sala R. Autoimmune Encephalitis and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:775017. [PMID: 34975576 PMCID: PMC8718789 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.775017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of "acquired autism" refers to the hypothesis that amongst the massive heterogeneity that encompasses autism spectrum disorder (ASD) there may be several phenotypes that are neither syndromic nor innate. Strong and consistent evidence has linked exposure to various pharmacological and infective agents with an elevated risk of a diagnosis of ASD including maternal valproate use, rubella and herpes encephalitis. Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) describes a group of conditions characterised by the body's immune system mounting an attack on healthy brain cells causing brain inflammation. The resultant cognitive, psychiatric and neurological symptoms that follow AE have also included ASD or autism-like traits and states. We review the current literature on AE and ASD. Drawing also on associated literature on autoimmune psychosis (AP) and preliminary evidence of a psychosis-linked subtype of ASD, we conclude that AE may either act as a potentially causative agent for ASD, and/or produce symptoms that could easily be mistaken for or misdiagnosed as autism. Further studies are required to discern the connection between AE and autism. Where autism is accompanied by regression and atypical onset patterns, it may be prudent to investigate whether a differential diagnosis of AE would be more appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ben Marlow
- Colchester Hospital, East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Colchester, United Kingdom
- The Synapse Centre for Neurodevelopment ESNEFT, Colchester, United Kingdom
| | - Ritika R. Kapoor
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Variety Club Children's Hospital, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Regina Sala
- Centre for Psychiatry, Wolfson Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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17
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Turkestani M, Aldosiry N, Hamed N, Bhat RS, El-Ansary A. Learning Difficulties and Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review of the Role of Nutritional Interventions. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421040140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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18
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Maly IV, Morales MJ, Pletnikov MV. Astrocyte Bioenergetics and Major Psychiatric Disorders. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2021; 26:173-227. [PMID: 34888836 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77375-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Ongoing research continues to add new elements to the emerging picture of involvement of astrocyte energy metabolism in the pathophysiology of major psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, mood disorders, and addictions. This review outlines what is known about the energy metabolism in astrocytes, the most numerous cell type in the brain, and summarizes the recent work on how specific perturbations of astrocyte bioenergetics may contribute to the neuropsychiatric conditions. The role of astrocyte energy metabolism in mental health and disease is reviewed on the organism, organ, and cell level. Data arising from genomic, metabolomic, in vitro, and neurobehavioral studies is critically analyzed to suggest future directions in research and possible metabolism-focused therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan V Maly
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Michael J Morales
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Mikhail V Pletnikov
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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Abstract
Neuropsychiatric diseases have traditionally been studied from brain, and mind-centric perspectives. However, mounting epidemiological and clinical evidence shows a strong correlation of neuropsychiatric manifestations with immune system activation, suggesting a likely mechanistic interaction between the immune and nervous systems in mediating neuropsychiatric disease. Indeed, immune mediators such as cytokines, antibodies, and complement proteins have been shown to affect various cellular members of the central nervous system in multitudinous ways, such as by modulating neuronal firing rates, inducing cellular apoptosis, or triggering synaptic pruning. These observations have in turn led to the exciting development of clinical therapies aiming to harness this neuro-immune interaction for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disease and symptoms. Besides the clinic, important theoretical fundamentals can be drawn from the immune system and applied to our understanding of the brain and neuropsychiatric disease. These new frameworks could lead to novel insights in the field and further potentiate the development of future therapies to treat neuropsychiatric disease.
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20
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Zawadzka A, Cieślik M, Adamczyk A. The Role of Maternal Immune Activation in the Pathogenesis of Autism: A Review of the Evidence, Proposed Mechanisms and Implications for Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111516. [PMID: 34768946 PMCID: PMC8584025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease that is characterized by a deficit in social interactions and communication, as well as repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Increasing lines of evidence suggest an important role for immune dysregulation and/or inflammation in the development of ASD. Recently, a relationship between inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported in the brain tissue of individuals with ASD. Some recent studies have also reported oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities in animal models of maternal immune activation (MIA). This review is focused on the hypothesis that MIA induces microglial activation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction, a deleterious trio in the brain that can lead to neuroinflammation and neurodevelopmental pathologies in offspring. Infection during pregnancy activates the mother’s immune system to release proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, TNF-α, and others. Furthermore, these cytokines can directly cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation, or activate resident immune cells, resulting in an increased production of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-6. Proinflammatory cytokines that cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) may initiate a neuroinflammation cascade, starting with the activation of the microglia. Inflammatory processes induce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction that, in turn, may exacerbate oxidative stress in a self-perpetuating vicious cycle that can lead to downstream abnormalities in brain development and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Cieślik
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (A.A.); Tel.: +48-22-6086420 (M.C.); +48-22-6086572 (A.A.)
| | - Agata Adamczyk
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (A.A.); Tel.: +48-22-6086420 (M.C.); +48-22-6086572 (A.A.)
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21
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Krigsman A, Walker SJ. Gastrointestinal disease in children with autism spectrum disorders: Etiology or consequence? World J Psychiatry 2021; 11:605-618. [PMID: 34631464 PMCID: PMC8474996 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v11.i9.605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and disorders are common in children with autism spectrum disorder and have been shown to be significantly correlated with the degree of behavioral and cognitive impairment. In this unique population, GI symptoms often arise very early in development, during infancy or toddlerhood, and may be misdiagnosed - or not diagnosed at all – due in part to the challenges associated with recognition of symptoms in a minimally or non-communicative child. Evidence demonstrating that the gut-brain-axis can communicate gut dysbiosis and systemic immune dysregulation in a bidirectional manner raises the question as to whether an untreated gastrointestinal disorder can directly impact neurodevelopment or, conversely, whether having a neurodevelopmental disorder predisposes a child to chronic GI issues. From the data presented in this mini review, we conclude that the preponderance of available evidence would suggest the former scenario is more strongly supported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Krigsman
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Resources of New York and Texas, Georgetown, TX 78628, United States
| | - Stephen J Walker
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston Salem, NC 27157, United States
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22
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Al-Ayadhi L, Zayed N, Bhat RS, Moubayed NMS, Al-Muammar MN, El-Ansary A. The use of biomarkers associated with leaky gut as a diagnostic tool for early intervention in autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Gut Pathog 2021; 13:54. [PMID: 34517895 PMCID: PMC8439029 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-021-00448-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Innovative research highlighted the probable connection between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gut microbiota as many autistic individuals have gastrointestinal problems as co-morbidities. This review emphasizes the role of altered gut microbiota observed frequently in autistic patients, and the mechanisms through which such alterations may trigger leaky gut. Main body Different bacterial metabolite levels in the blood and urine of autistic children, such as short-chain fatty acids, lipopolysaccharides, beta-cresol, and bacterial toxins, were reviewed. Moreover, the importance of selected proteins, among which are calprotectin, zonulin, and lysozyme, were discussed as biomarkers for the early detection of leaky gut as an etiological mechanism of ASD through the less integrative gut–blood–brain barriers. Disrupted gut–blood–brain barriers can explain the leakage of bacterial metabolites in these patients. Conclusion Although the cause-to-effect relationship between ASD and altered gut microbiota is not yet well understood, this review shows that with the consumption of specific diets, definite probiotics may represent a noninvasive tool to reestablish healthy gut microbiota and stimulate gut health. The diagnostic and therapeutic value of intestinal proteins and bacterial-derived compounds as new possible biomarkers, as well as potential therapeutic targets, are discussed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13099-021-00448-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naima Zayed
- Therapuetic Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Biochemistry Department, College of Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadine M S Moubayed
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, Female Campus, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - May N Al-Muammar
- Department of Community Health, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Laboratory, Female Centre for Scientific and Medical Studies, King Saud University, P.O box 22452, Zip code 11495, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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23
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Koshiba M, Watarai-Senoo A, Karino G, Ozawa S, Kamei Y, Honda Y, Tanaka I, Kodama T, Usui S, Tokuno H. A Susceptible Period of Photic Day-Night Rhythm Loss in Common Marmoset Social Behavior Development. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 14:539411. [PMID: 33603653 PMCID: PMC7884770 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.539411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders such as pervasive developmental disorders is rapidly increasing worldwide. Although these developmental disorders are known to be influenced by an individual’s genetic background, the potential biological responses to early life’s environmental exposure to both physical and psychological factors must also be considered. Many studies have acknowledged the influence of shorter time for rest at night and the simultaneous occurrence of various kinds of complications involving developmental disorders. In a prior study, we examined how a common marmoset’s (Callithrix jacchus) psychosocial development was affected when it was reared under constant daylight from birth and then reared individually by humans nursing them under constant light (LL) during their juvenile development stages. The behaviors of these marmosets were compared with those of normal day-night cycle (LD) marmosets using a multivariate analysis based on principal component analysis (PCA). That study found that LL marmosets relatively elicited egg-like calls (Ecall) and side-to-side shakes of the upper body with rapid head rotation through adulthood frequently. Based on the PCA, these behaviors were interpreted as “alert” or “hyperactive” states. However, we did not clarify susceptible periods of the photic rhythm loss experience and the psychological development output. In this study we summarize the following studies in our model animal colonies involving 30 animals (11 female, 19 males) to further explore critical age states of inquiry about each social behavior profiling. We compared social behaviors of three age stages, juvenile, adolescent and young adult equivalent to one another in four LL experience conditions, LL (postnatal day (P) 0 to around 150), Middle (P60–149, 90 days), Late (P150–239, 90 days), and LD (no experience). In the most representative 1st and 2nd principal component scores, the shifting to higher frequency of alert behaviors developed at the adult stage in LL, Middle, then Late in turn. The no LL experience group, LD, generally featured higher frequency of local preference of high position compared to LL experience present groups, in adulthood. This limited model primate study might inspire different developmental age sensitive mechanisms of neuronal network to control socio-emotional functions by utilizing the multivariate visualization method, BOUQUET. This study could potentially contribute to nurturing educational designs for social developmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamiko Koshiba
- Engineering Department, Yamaguchi University, Ube City, Japan.,Pediatrics, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan.,Graduate School of Information Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Genta Karino
- Pediatrics, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shimpei Ozawa
- Pediatrics, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Kamei
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Honda
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya, Japan
| | - Ikuko Tanaka
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya, Japan
| | - Tohru Kodama
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya, Japan
| | - Setsuo Usui
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya, Japan
| | - Hironobu Tokuno
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya, Japan
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24
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Martino D, Johnson I, Leckman JF. What Does Immunology Have to Do With Normal Brain Development and the Pathophysiology Underlying Tourette Syndrome and Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders? Front Neurol 2020; 11:567407. [PMID: 33041996 PMCID: PMC7525089 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.567407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The goal of this article is to review the past decade's literature and provide a critical commentary on the involvement of immunological mechanisms in normal brain development, as well as its role in the pathophysiology of Tourette syndrome, other Chronic tic disorders (CTD), and related neuropsychiatric disorders including Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods: We conducted a literature search using the Medline/PubMed and EMBASE electronic databases to locate relevant articles and abstracts published between 2009 and 2020, using a comprehensive list of search terms related to immune mechanisms and the diseases of interest, including both clinical and animal model studies. Results: The cellular and molecular processes that constitute our "immune system" are crucial to normal brain development and the formation and maintenance of neural circuits. It is also increasingly evident that innate and adaptive systemic immune pathways, as well as neuroinflammatory mechanisms, play an important role in the pathobiology of at least a subset of individuals with Tourette syndrome and related neuropsychiatric disorders In the conceptual framework of the holobiont theory, emerging evidence points also to the importance of the "microbiota-gut-brain axis" in the pathobiology of these neurodevelopmental disorders. Conclusions: Neural development is an enormously complex and dynamic process. Immunological pathways are implicated in several early neurodevelopmental processes including the formation and refinement of neural circuits. Hyper-reactivity of systemic immune pathways and neuroinflammation may contribute to the natural fluctuations of the core behavioral features of CTD, OCD, and ADHD. There is still limited knowledge of the efficacy of direct and indirect (i.e., through environmental modifications) immune-modulatory interventions in the treatment of these disorders. Future research also needs to focus on the key molecular pathways through which dysbiosis of different tissue microbiota influence neuroimmune interactions in these disorders, and how microbiota modification could modify their natural history. It is also possible that valid biomarkers will emerge that will guide a more personalized approach to the treatment of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Martino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences & Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Isaac Johnson
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - James F. Leckman
- Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- Departments of Psychiatry, Pediatrics and Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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Pangrazzi L, Balasco L, Bozzi Y. Oxidative Stress and Immune System Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093293. [PMID: 32384730 PMCID: PMC7247582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) represent a group of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with social and behavioral impairments. Although dysfunctions in several signaling pathways have been associated with ASDs, very few molecules have been identified as potentially effective drug targets in the clinic. Classically, research in the ASD field has focused on the characterization of pathways involved in neural development and synaptic plasticity, which support the pathogenesis of this group of diseases. More recently, immune system dysfunctions have been observed in ASD. In addition, high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress, are present in ASD patients. In this review, we will describe the major alterations in the expression of genes coding for enzymes involved in the ROS scavenging system, in both ASD patients and ASD mouse models. In addition, we will discuss, in the context of the most recent literature, the possibility that oxidative stress, inflammation and immune system dysfunction may be connected to, and altogether support, the pathogenesis and/or severity of ASD. Finally, we will discuss the possibility of novel treatments aimed at counteracting the interplay between ROS and inflammation in people with ASD.
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