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Frye RE, Rincon N, McCarty PJ, Brister D, Scheck AC, Rossignol DA. Biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 197:106520. [PMID: 38703861 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 1 in 36 children and is associated with physiological abnormalities, most notably mitochondrial dysfunction, at least in a subset of individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis discovered 204 relevant articles which evaluated biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD individuals. Significant elevations (all p < 0.01) in the prevalence of lactate (17%), pyruvate (41%), alanine (15%) and creatine kinase (9%) were found in ASD. Individuals with ASD had significant differences (all p < 0.01) with moderate to large effect sizes (Cohen's d' ≥ 0.6) compared to controls in mean pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, ATP, and creatine kinase. Some studies found abnormal TCA cycle metabolites associated with ASD. Thirteen controlled studies reported mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions or variations in the ASD group in blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymphocytes, leucocytes, granulocytes, and brain. Meta-analyses discovered significant differences (p < 0.01) in copy number of mtDNA overall and in ND1, ND4 and CytB genes. Four studies linked specific mtDNA haplogroups to ASD. A series of studies found a subgroup of ASD with elevated mitochondrial respiration which was associated with increased sensitivity of the mitochondria to physiological stressors and neurodevelopmental regression. Lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, carnitine, and acyl-carnitines were associated with clinical features such as delays in language, social interaction, cognition, motor skills, and with repetitive behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms, although not all studies found an association. Lactate, carnitine, acyl-carnitines, ATP, CoQ10, as well as mtDNA variants, heteroplasmy, haplogroups and copy number were associated with ASD severity. Variability was found across biomarker studies primarily due to differences in collection and processing techniques as well as the intrinsic heterogeneity of the ASD population. Several studies reported alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in mothers of children with ASD and in neonates who develop ASD. Treatments targeting mitochondria, particularly carnitine and ubiquinol, appear beneficial in ASD. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD and common physiological abnormalities in individuals with ASD including gastrointestinal disorders, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction is outlined. Several subtypes of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are discussed, including one related to neurodevelopmental regression, another related to alterations in microbiome metabolites, and another related to elevations in acyl-carnitines. Mechanisms linking abnormal mitochondrial function with alterations in prenatal brain development and postnatal brain function are outlined. Given the multisystem complexity of some individuals with ASD, this review presents evidence for the mitochondria being central to ASD by contributing to abnormalities in brain development, cognition, and comorbidities such as immune and gastrointestinal dysfunction as well as neurodevelopmental regression. A diagnostic approach to identify mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD is outlined. From this evidence, it is clear that many individuals with ASD have alterations in mitochondrial function which may need to be addressed in order to achieve optimal clinical outcomes. The fact that alterations in mitochondrial metabolism may be found during pregnancy and early in the life of individuals who eventually develop ASD provides promise for early life predictive biomarkers of ASD. Further studies may improve the understanding of the role of the mitochondria in ASD by better defining subgroups and understanding the molecular mechanisms driving some of the unique changes found in mitochondrial function in those with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | | | - Patrick J McCarty
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70113, United States of America.
| | | | - Adrienne C Scheck
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States of America.
| | - Daniel A Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA
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Modafferi S, Lupo G, Tomasello M, Rampulla F, Ontario M, Scuto M, Salinaro AT, Arcidiacono A, Anfuso CD, Legmouz M, Azzaoui FZ, Palmeri A, Spano' S, Biamonte F, Cammilleri G, Fritsch T, Sidenkova A, Calabrese E, Wenzel U, Calabrese V. Antioxidants, Hormetic Nutrition, and Autism. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1156-1168. [PMID: 37592816 PMCID: PMC10964097 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230817085811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a heterogeneous group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by atypical behaviors with two core pathological manifestations: deficits in social interaction/communication and repetitive behaviors, which are associated with disturbed redox homeostasis. Modulation of cellular resilience mechanisms induced by low levels of stressors represents a novel approach for the development of therapeutic strategies, and in this context, neuroprotective effects of a wide range of polyphenol compounds have been demonstrated in several in vitro and in vivo studies and thoroughly reviewed. Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for many years and have been associated with a long list of therapeutic properties, including antitumor, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective effects. Our recent studies have strikingly indicated the presence of polyphenols in nutritional mushrooms and demonstrated their protective effects in different models of neurodegenerative disorders in humans and rats. Although their therapeutic effects are exerted through multiple mechanisms, increasing attention is focusing on their capacity to induce endogenous defense systems by modulating cellular signaling processes such as nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways. Here we discuss the protective role of hormesis and its modulation by hormetic nutrients in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Modafferi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Gabriella Lupo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Mario Tomasello
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Francesco Rampulla
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Marialaura Ontario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Maria Scuto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Angela Trovato Salinaro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Antonio Arcidiacono
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Carmelina Daniela Anfuso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Maria Legmouz
- Department of Biologie, Laboratory of Biologie and Health, Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
| | - Fatima-Zahra Azzaoui
- Department of Biologie, Laboratory of Biologie and Health, Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco
| | - Agostino Palmeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Sestina Spano'
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Francesca Biamonte
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
| | - Gaetano Cammilleri
- Food Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, via Gino Marinuzzi, 3 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Alena Sidenkova
- Department of Psychiatry, Ural State Medical University, Ekaterinburg, Russia
| | - Edward Calabrese
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences; Morrill I, N344, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Uwe Wenzel
- Institut für Ernährungswissenschaft, Justus Liebig Universitat Giessen, Germany
| | - Vittorio Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 950125, Italy
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Effect of Adding l -Carnitine to Risperidone on Behavioral, Cognitive, Social, and Physical Symptoms in Children and Adolescents With Autism: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Clin Neuropharmacol 2023; 46:55-59. [PMID: 36735565 DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present research aimed to evaluate the effect of adding l -carnitine to risperidone in treating children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS In this randomized controlled clinical trial study, 50 ASD children and adolescents were divided into 2 groups: those receiving l -carnitine and risperidone (n = 25) and those receiving placebo and risperidone (n = 25). Treatment continued for 8 weeks, and participants were assessed at the beginning of the study, in the fourth and eighth weeks, by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC). RESULTS l -Carnitine add-on therapy reduced the scores of total ABC and subscales of restlessness, lethargy and social isolation, stereotypic behavior, and inappropriate speech at weeks 4 and 8. There was a significant difference between the 2 groups in the score of total ABC and subscale of lethargy and social isolation. CONCLUSIONS According to the present study, adding l -carnitine to risperidone improves ASD symptoms.
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Nabi SU, Rehman MU, Arafah A, Taifa S, Khan IS, Khan A, Rashid S, Jan F, Wani HA, Ahmad SF. Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders by Mitochondrial-targeted Drug: Future of Neurological Diseases Therapeutics. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1042-1064. [PMID: 36411568 PMCID: PMC10286588 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221121095618] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex etiology that might involve environmental and genetic variables. Recently, some epidemiological studies conducted in various parts of the world have estimated a significant increase in the prevalence of autism, with 1 in every 59 children having some degree of autism. Since autism has been associated with other clinical abnormalities, there is every possibility that a sub-cellular component may be involved in the progression of autism. The organelle remains a focus based on mitochondria's functionality and metabolic role in cells. Furthermore, the mitochondrial genome is inherited maternally and has its DNA and organelle that remain actively involved during embryonic development; these characteristics have linked mitochondrial dysfunction to autism. Although rapid stride has been made in autism research, there are limited studies that have made particular emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and autism. Accumulating evidence from studies conducted at cellular and sub-cellular levels has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction's role in autism is more than expected. The present review has attempted to describe the risk factors of autism, the role of mitochondria in the progression of the disease, oxidative damage as a trigger point to initiate mitochondrial damage, genetic determinants of the disease, possible pathogenic pathways and therapeutic regimen in vogue and the developmental stage. Furthermore, in the present review, an attempt has been made to include the novel therapeutic regimens under investigation at different clinical trial stages and their potential possibility to emerge as promising drugs against ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Showkat Ul Nabi
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Muneeb U. Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azher Arafah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Taifa
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Iqra Shafi Khan
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Jan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CT University, Ludhiana, Ferozepur Road, Punjab, 142024, India
| | - Hilal Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biochemistry, Government Degree College Sumbal, Bandipora, J&K, India
| | - Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Wu J, Wang D, Yan L, Jia M, Zhang J, Han S, Han J, Wang J, Chen X, Zhang R. Associations of essential element serum concentrations with autism spectrum disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:88962-88971. [PMID: 35842508 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21978-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This case-control study explored the associations between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the serum concentration of nine chemical elements in children. The study recruited 92 Chinese children with ASD and 103 typically developing individuals. Serum concentrations of nine chemical elements (calcium, iodine, iron, lithium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, strontium, and zinc) were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). An unconditional logistic regression model was used to analyze the associations between the serum concentrations of the elements and the risk of ASD. After adjusting for confounders, the multivariate analysis results showed that zinc ≤ 837.70 ng/mL, potassium > 170.06 μg/mL, and strontium ≤ 52.46 ng/mL were associated with an increased risk of ASD, while selenium > 159.80 ng/mL was associated with a decreased risk of ASD. Furthermore, the degree of lithium and zinc deficiency was associated with ASD severity. The results indicated that metallomic profiles of some specific elements might play important roles in the development of ASD, a finding of scientific significance for understanding the etiology, and providing dietary guidance for certain ASD types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Medical and Health Analysis Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Dongfang Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Lailai Yan
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Meixiang Jia
- Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jishui Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Center of Rehabilitation, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100045, China
- National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Songping Han
- Wuxi Shenpingxintai Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Jiangsu, Wuxi, 214000, China
| | - Jisheng Han
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xi Chen
- National Institute of Environmental Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Rong Zhang
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
- Autism Research Center of Peking, University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
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Wang Y, Guo X, Hong X, Wang G, Pearson C, Zuckerman B, Clark AG, O'Brien KO, Wang X, Gu Z. Association of mitochondrial DNA content, heteroplasmies and inter-generational transmission with autism. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3790. [PMID: 35778412 PMCID: PMC9249801 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30805-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are essential for brain development. While previous studies linked dysfunctional mitochondria with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the role of the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) in ASD risk is largely unexplored. This study investigates the association of mtDNA heteroplasmies (co-existence of mutated and unmutated mtDNA) and content with ASD, as well as its inter-generational transmission and sex differences among two independent samples: a family-based study (n = 1,938 families with parents, probands and sibling controls) and a prospective birth cohort (n = 997 mother-child pairs). In both samples, predicted pathogenic (PP) heteroplasmies in children are associated with ASD risk (Meta-OR = 1.56, P = 0.00068). Inter-generational transmission of mtDNA reveals attenuated effects of purifying selection on maternal heteroplasmies in children with ASD relative to controls, particularly among males. Among children with ASD and PP heteroplasmies, increased mtDNA content shows benefits for cognition, communication, and behaviors (P ≤ 0.02). These results underscore the value of exploring maternal and newborn mtDNA in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqin Wang
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoxian Guo
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Xiumei Hong
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guoying Wang
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Colleen Pearson
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Barry Zuckerman
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew G Clark
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Computational Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Xiaobin Wang
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Zhenglong Gu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
- Center for Mitochondrial Genetics and Medicine, Greater Bay Area Institute of Precision Medicine (Guangzhou), Fudan University, Guangzhou, China.
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Association between plasma proteome and childhood neurodevelopmental disorders: A two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis. EBioMedicine 2022; 78:103948. [PMID: 35306338 PMCID: PMC8933670 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.103948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and Tourette syndrome (TS), comprise a major cause of health-related disabilities in children. However, biomarkers towards pathogenesis or novel drug targets are still limited. Our study aims to provide a comprehensive investigation of the causal effects of the plasma proteome on ASD, ADHD, and TS using the two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach. Methods Genetic associations with 2994 plasma proteins were selected as exposures and genome-wide association data of ASD, ADHD, TS were utilized as outcomes. MR analyses were carried out using the inverse-variance weighted method, and the MR-Egger and weighted median methods were used for sensitivity analysis. Findings Using single-nucleotide polymorphisms as instruments, the study suggested increased levels of MAPKAPK3 (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.05–1.13; P = 1.43 × 10−6) and MRPL33 (OR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.04–1.11; P = 5.37 × 10−6) were causally associated with a higher risk of ASD, and increased MANBA level was associated with a lower risk of ADHD (OR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.88–0.95; P = 8.97 × 10−6). The causal associations were robust in sensitivity analysis, leave-one-out analysis and Multivariable MR, and no pleiotropy was observed. No significant risk protein was identified for TS. Interpretation The study findings support the idea that the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway and mitochondrial dysfunction are involved in the pathogenesis of ASD, while a deficiency in beta-mannosidase might play a role in the development of ADHD.
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Balachandar V, Rajagopalan K, Jayaramayya K, Jeevanandam M, Iyer M. Mitochondrial dysfunction: A hidden trigger of autism? Genes Dis 2021; 8:629-639. [PMID: 34291134 PMCID: PMC8278534 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorder with no precise etiology. Deficits in cognitive functions uncover at early stages and are known to have an environmental and genetic basis. Since autism is multifaceted and also linked with other comorbidities associated with various organs, there is a possibility that there may be a fundamental cellular process responsible for this. These reasons place mitochondria at the point of interest as it is involved in multiple cellular processes predominantly involving metabolism. Mitochondria encoded genes were taken into consideration lately because it is inherited maternally, has its own genome and also functions the time of embryo development. Various researches have linked mitochondrial mishaps like oxidative stress, ROS production and mt-DNA copy number variations to autism. Despite dramatic advances in autism research worldwide, the studies focusing on mitochondrial dysfunction in autism is rather minimal, especially in India. India, owing to its rich diversity, may be able to contribute significantly to autism research. It is vital to urge more studies in this domain as it may help to completely understand the basics of the condition apart from a genetic standpoint. This review focuses on the worldwide and Indian scenario of autism research; mitochondrial abnormalities in autism and possible therapeutic approaches to combat it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vellingiri Balachandar
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
| | - Kamarajan Rajagopalan
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
| | - Kaavya Jayaramayya
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641043, India
| | - Madesh Jeevanandam
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
- Department of Biochemistry, PSG College of Arts and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641014, India
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641043, India
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Potential Role of L-Carnitine in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10061202. [PMID: 33805796 PMCID: PMC8000371 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10061202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
L-carnitine plays an important role in the functioning of the central nervous system, and especially in the mitochondrial metabolism of fatty acids. Altered carnitine metabolism, abnormal fatty acid metabolism in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been documented. ASD is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition that is usually diagnosed in early childhood. Patients with ASD require careful classification as this heterogeneous clinical category may include patients with an intellectual disability or high functioning, epilepsy, language impairments, or associated Mendelian genetic conditions. L-carnitine participates in the long-chain oxidation of fatty acids in the brain, stimulates acetylcholine synthesis (donor of the acyl groups), stimulates expression of growth-associated protein-43, prevents cell apoptosis and neuron damage and stimulates neurotransmission. Determination of L-carnitine in serum/plasma and analysis of acylcarnitines in a dried blood spot may be useful in ASD diagnosis and treatment. Changes in the acylcarnitine profiles may indicate potential mitochondrial dysfunctions and abnormal fatty acid metabolism in ASD children. L-carnitine deficiency or deregulation of L-carnitine metabolism in ASD is accompanied by disturbances of other metabolic pathways, e.g., Krebs cycle, the activity of respiratory chain complexes, indicative of mitochondrial dysfunction. Supplementation of L-carnitine may be beneficial to alleviate behavioral and cognitive symptoms in ASD patients.
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Abstract
Although type 1 diabetes mellitus and, to a lesser extent, type 2 diabetes mellitus, are the prevailing forms of diabetes in youth, atypical forms of diabetes are not uncommon and may require etiology-specific therapies. By some estimates, up to 6.5% of children with diabetes have monogenic forms. Mitochondrial diabetes and cystic fibrosis related diabetes are less common but often noted in the underlying disease. Atypical diabetes should be considered in patients with a known disorder associated with diabetes, aged less than 25 years with nonautoimmune diabetes and without typical characteristics of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and/or with comorbidities associated with atypical diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn Tamaroff
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, 12th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Marissa Kilberg
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, 12th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sara E Pinney
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, 12th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Shana McCormack
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, 12th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Malaguarnera M, Cauli O. Effects of l-Carnitine in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Review of Clinical Studies. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24234262. [PMID: 31766743 PMCID: PMC6930613 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24234262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Carnitine is an amino acid derivative, which plays several important roles in human physiology, in the central nervous system, and for mitochondrial metabolism, in particular. Altered carnitine metabolic routes have been associated with a subgroup of patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and could add to the pathophysiology associated with these disorders. We review the current evidence about the clinical effects of carnitine administration in ASD in both non-syndromic forms and ASD associated with genetic disorders. Two randomized clinical trials and one open-label prospective trial suggest that carnitine administration could be useful for treating symptoms in non-syndromic ASD. The effect of carnitine administration in ASD associated with genetic disorders is not conclusive because of a lack of clinical trials and objectives in ASD evaluation, but beneficial effects have also been reported for other comorbid disorders, such as intellectual disability and muscular strength. Side effects observed with a dose of 200 mg/kg/day consisted of gastro-intestinal symptoms and a strong, heavy skin odor. Doses of about 50–100 mg/kg/day are generally well tolerated. Further clinical trials with the identification of the subgroup of ASD patients that would benefit from carnitine administration are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Malaguarnera
- Research Center “The Great Senescence”, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy;
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Omar Cauli
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Group (FROG), University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
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12
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Park CB, Choi VN, Jun JB, Kim JH, Lee Y, Lee J, Lim G, Kim J, Jeong SY, Yim SY. Identification of a rare homozygous c.790C>T variation in the TFB2M gene in Korean patients with autism spectrum disorder. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 507:148-154. [PMID: 30414672 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.10.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequent enhanced oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Mitochondrial transcription factor B2 (TFB2M) is an essential protein in mitochondrial gene expression. No reports have described TFB2M mutations and variations involved in any human diseases. We identified a rare homozygous c.790C>T (His264Tyr) variation in TFB2M gene in two Korean siblings with ASD by whole-exome sequencing. The roles of the TFB2M variation in the pathogenesis of ASD were investigated. Patient fibroblasts revealed increased transcription of mitochondrial genes and mitochondrial function in terms of ATP, membrane potential, oxygen consumption, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Overexpression of the TFB2M variant in primary-cultured fibroblasts demonstrated significantly increased transcription of mitochondrial genes and mitochondrial function compared with overexpression of wild-type TFB2M. Molecular dynamics simulation of the TFB2M variant protein suggested an increase in the rigidity of the hinge region, which may cause alterations in loading and/or unloading of TFB2M on target DNA. Our results suggest that augmentation of mitochondrial gene expression and subsequent enhancement of mitochondrial function may be associated with the pathogenesis of ASD in Korean patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Bae Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Physiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Vit-Na Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Medical Genetics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Bum Jun
- Department of Rheumatology, Hanyang University Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hae Kim
- Institute of Rheumatology, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngsoo Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Genomic Instability Research Center, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhyuk Lee
- Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Bioinformatics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - GyuTae Lim
- Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea; Department of Bioinformatics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeonghyun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Medical Genetics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Yong Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Medical Genetics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
| | - Shin-Young Yim
- Department of Medical Genetics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Rose S, Niyazov DM, Rossignol DA, Goldenthal M, Kahler SG, Frye RE. Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Diagn Ther 2018; 22:571-593. [PMID: 30039193 PMCID: PMC6132446 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-018-0352-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects ~ 2% of children in the United States. The etiology of ASD likely involves environmental factors triggering physiological abnormalities in genetically sensitive individuals. One of these major physiological abnormalities is mitochondrial dysfunction, which may affect a significant subset of children with ASD. Here we systematically review the literature on human studies of mitochondrial dysfunction related to ASD. Clinical aspects of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD include unusual neurodevelopmental regression, especially if triggered by an inflammatory event, gastrointestinal symptoms, seizures, motor delays, fatigue and lethargy. Traditional biomarkers of mitochondrial disease are widely reported to be abnormal in ASD, but appear non-specific. Newer biomarkers include buccal cell enzymology, biomarkers of fatty acid metabolism, non-mitochondrial enzyme function, apoptosis markers and mitochondrial antibodies. Many genetic abnormalities are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD, including chromosomal abnormalities, mitochondrial DNA mutations and large-scale deletions, and mutations in both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial nuclear genes. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been described in immune and buccal cells, fibroblasts, muscle and gastrointestinal tissue and the brains of individuals with ASD. Several environmental factors, including toxicants, microbiome metabolites and an oxidized microenvironment are shown to modulate mitochondrial function in ASD tissues. Investigations of treatments for mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are promising but preliminary. The etiology of mitochondrial dysfunction and how to define it in ASD is currently unclear. However, preliminary evidence suggests that the mitochondria may be a fruitful target for treatment and prevention of ASD. Further research is needed to better understand the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Rose
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Dmitriy M Niyazov
- Section of Medical Genetics, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Michael Goldenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology Section, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stephen G Kahler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Richard E Frye
- Division of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix Children's Hospital, 1919 E Thomas St, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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14
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Pei L, Wallace DC. Mitochondrial Etiology of Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 83:722-730. [PMID: 29290371 PMCID: PMC5891364 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2017.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The brain has the highest mitochondrial energy demand of any organ. Therefore, subtle changes in mitochondrial energy production will preferentially affect the brain. Considerable biochemical evidence has accumulated revealing mitochondrial defects associated with neuropsychiatric diseases. Moreover, the mitochondrial genome encompasses over a thousand nuclear DNA genes plus hundreds to thousands of copies of the maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Therefore, partial defects in either the nuclear DNA or mtDNA genes or combinations of the two can be sufficient to cause neuropsychiatric disorders. Inherited and acquired mtDNA mutations have recently been associated with autism spectrum disorder, which parallels previous evidence of mtDNA variation in other neurological diseases. Therefore, mitochondrial dysfunction may be central to the etiology of a wide spectrum of neurological diseases. The mitochondria and the nucleus communicate to coordinate energy production and utilization, providing the potential for therapeutics by manipulating nuclear regulation of mitochondrial gene expression.
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15
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Cheng Y, Luo F, Zhang Q, Sang Y, Chen X, Zhang L, Liu Y, Li X, Li J, Ding H, Mei Y. α-Lipoic acid alleviates pentetrazol-induced neurological deficits and behavioral dysfunction in rats with seizures via an Nrf2 pathway. RSC Adv 2018. [DOI: 10.1039/c7ra11491e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy (EP) is a type of chronic brain disease characterized by transient central nervous system malfunction which is the result of neuron paradoxical discharge in the brain.
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16
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Chalkia D, Singh LN, Leipzig J, Lvova M, Derbeneva O, Lakatos A, Hadley D, Hakonarson H, Wallace DC. Association Between Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroup Variation and Autism Spectrum Disorders. JAMA Psychiatry 2017; 74:1161-1168. [PMID: 28832883 PMCID: PMC5710217 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.2604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive or restrictive behavior. Although multiple physiologic and biochemical studies have reported defects in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in patients with ASD, the role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation has remained relatively unexplored. OBJECTIVE To assess what impact mitochondrial lineages encompassing ancient mtDNA functional polymorphisms, termed haplogroups, have on ASD risk. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS In this cohort study, individuals with autism and their families were studied using the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange cohort genome-wide association studies data previously generated at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. From October 2010 to January 2017, we analyzed the data and used the mtDNA single-nucleotide polymorphisms interrogated by the Illumina HumanHap 550 chip to determine the mtDNA haplogroups of the individuals. Taking into account the familial structure of the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange data, we then determined whether the mtDNA haplogroups correlate with ASD risk. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Odds ratios of mitochondrial haplogroup as predictors of ASD risk. RESULTS Of 1624 patients with autism included in this study, 1299 were boys (80%) and 325 were girls (20%). Families in the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange collection (933 families, encompassing 4041 individuals: 1624 patients with ASD and 2417 healthy parents and siblings) had been previously recruited in the United States with no restrictions on age, sex, race/ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Relative to the most common European haplogroup HHV, European haplogroups I, J, K, O-X, T, and U were associated with increased risk of ASD, as were Asian and Native American haplogroups A and M, with odds ratios ranging from 1.55 (95% CI, 1.16-2.06) to 2.18 (95% CI, 1.59-3) (adjusted P < .04). Hence, mtDNA haplogroup variation is an important risk factor for ASD. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Because haplogroups I, J, K, O-X, T, and U encompass 55% of the European population, mtDNA lineages must make a significant contribution to overall ASD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Chalkia
- Center for Mitochondrial and Epigenomic Medicine,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania,Center for Systems Biomedicine, Division of Digestive
Diseases, School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Larry N. Singh
- Center for Mitochondrial and Epigenomic Medicine,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
| | - Jeremy Leipzig
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
| | - Maria Lvova
- Center for Mitochondrial and Epigenomic Medicine,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
| | - Olga Derbeneva
- Center for Mitochondrial and Epigenomic Medicine,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
| | - Anita Lakatos
- Institute of Memory Impairments and Neurological
Disorders, Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine
| | - Dexter Hadley
- Center for Applied Genomics, Department of Pediatrics,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- Center for Applied Genomics, Department of Pediatrics,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
| | - Douglas C. Wallace
- Center for Mitochondrial and Epigenomic Medicine,
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine,
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
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17
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Evidence of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism: Biochemical Links, Genetic-Based Associations, and Non-Energy-Related Mechanisms. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2017. [PMID: 28630658 PMCID: PMC5467355 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4314025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, represents a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction and communication as well as restricted and repetitive behavior. The underlying cause of autism is unknown and therapy is currently limited to targeting behavioral abnormalities. Emerging studies suggest a link between mitochondrial dysfunction and ASD. Here, we review the evidence demonstrating this potential connection. We focus specifically on biochemical links, genetic-based associations, non-energy related mechanisms, and novel therapeutic strategies.
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18
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Wang Y, Picard M, Gu Z. Genetic Evidence for Elevated Pathogenicity of Mitochondrial DNA Heteroplasmy in Autism Spectrum Disorder. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006391. [PMID: 27792786 PMCID: PMC5085253 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing clinical and biochemical evidence implicate mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), but little is known about the biological basis for this connection. A possible cause of ASD is the genetic variation in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence, which has yet to be thoroughly investigated in large genomic studies of ASD. Here we evaluated mtDNA variation, including the mixture of different mtDNA molecules in the same individual (i.e., heteroplasmy), using whole-exome sequencing data from mother-proband-sibling trios from simplex families (n = 903) where only one child is affected by ASD. We found that heteroplasmic mutations in autistic probands were enriched at non-polymorphic mtDNA sites (P = 0.0015), which were more likely to confer deleterious effects than heteroplasmies at polymorphic mtDNA sites. Accordingly, we observed a ~1.5-fold enrichment of nonsynonymous mutations (P = 0.0028) as well as a ~2.2-fold enrichment of predicted pathogenic mutations (P = 0.0016) in autistic probands compared to their non-autistic siblings. Both nonsynonymous and predicted pathogenic mutations private to probands conferred increased risk of ASD (Odds Ratio, OR[95% CI] = 1.87[1.14-3.11] and 2.55[1.26-5.51], respectively), and their influence on ASD was most pronounced in families with probands showing diminished IQ and/or impaired social behavior compared to their non-autistic siblings. We also showed that the genetic transmission pattern of mtDNA heteroplasmies with high pathogenic potential differed between mother-autistic proband pairs and mother-sibling pairs, implicating developmental and possibly in utero contributions. Taken together, our genetic findings substantiate pathogenic mtDNA mutations as a potential cause for ASD and synergize with recent work calling attention to their unique metabolic phenotypes for diagnosis and treatment of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqin Wang
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Martin Picard
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Behavioral Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Division of Columbia Translational Neuroscience Initiative, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Zhenglong Gu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
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Puig-Alcaraz C, Fuentes-Albero M, Cauli O. Relationship between adipic acid concentration and the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. Psychiatry Res 2016; 242:39-45. [PMID: 27259135 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Dicarboxylic acids are an important source of information about metabolism and potential physiopathological alterations in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We measured the concentration between dicarboxylic adipic and suberic acids in children with an ASD and typically-developing (TD) children and analyzed any relationships between the severity of the core symptoms of ASDs and other clinical features (drugs, supplements, drugs, or diet). The core symptoms of autism were evaluated using the DSM-IV criteria, and adipic acid and suberic acid were measured in urine samples. Overall, no increase in the concentration of adipic acid in children with ASDs compared to TD children, however when considering vitamin B supplementation in ASD there were significantly increased level of urinary adipic acid in children with an ASD not taking vitamin B supplementation compared to supplemented children or to TD children. No significant difference were observed in suberic acid. Interestingly, the increase in adipic acid concentration was significantly and indirectly correlated with the severity of the deficit in socialization and communication skills in children with an ASD. Therefore, therapeutic treatments aimed at decreasing adipic acid concentration might not be beneficial for treating the core symptoms of ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Puig-Alcaraz
- Area of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Hospital of Sagunto, Sagunto, Valencia, Spain; Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, Castellón de la Plana, 12006 Castellón, Spain
| | | | - Omar Cauli
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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20
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Moos WH, Maneta E, Pinkert CA, Irwin MH, Hoffman ME, Faller DV, Steliou K. Epigenetic Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Autism and Schizophrenia. Drug Dev Res 2016; 77:53-72. [PMID: 26899191 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders are a heterogeneous group of conditions that often share underlying mitochondrial dysfunction and biological pathways implicated in their pathogenesis, progression, and treatment. To date, these disorders have proven notoriously resistant to molecular-targeted therapies, and clinical options are relegated to interventional types, which do not address the core symptoms of the disease. In this review, we discuss emerging epigenetic-driven approaches using novel acylcarnitine esters (carnitinoids) that act on master regulators of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes and mitophagic pathways. These carnitinoids are actively transported, mitochondria-localizing, biomimetic coenzyme A surrogates of short-chain fatty acids, which inhibit histone deacetylase and may reinvigorate synaptic plasticity and protect against neuronal damage. We outline these neuroprotective effects in the context of treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter H Moos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,SRI Biosciences, A Division of SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Eleni Maneta
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carl A Pinkert
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.,Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Michael H Irwin
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Michelle E Hoffman
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Douglas V Faller
- Cancer Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kosta Steliou
- Cancer Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.,PhenoMatriX, Inc., Boston, MA, USA
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21
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Puig-Alcaraz C, Fuentes-Albero M, Calderón J, Garrote D, Cauli O. Increased homocysteine levels correlate with the communication deficit in children with autism spectrum disorder. Psychiatry Res 2015; 229:1031-7. [PMID: 26070768 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2015.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The clinical significance of high levels of homocysteine in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is unknown. An experimental study was conducted in order to evaluate the concentration of homocysteine in children with ASD and typically developing children and to analyse any relationships with the severity of core symptoms of ASD and other clinical features (drugs, co-morbidities, gender, age, diet). Core symptoms of autism were evaluated by DSM-IV criteria. Homocysteine, glutathione, methionine, 3-nitrotyrosine were measured in urine. The increase in homocysteine concentration was significantly and directly correlated with the severity of the deficit in communication skills, but was unrelated to deficit in socialisation or repetitive/restricted behaviour. Urinary homocysteine concentration may be a possible biomarker for communication deficits in ASD and a potential diagnostic tool useful to evaluate new treatment options since no treatment for core symptoms of ASD are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Puig-Alcaraz
- Area of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Hospital of Sagunto, Sagunto, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Omar Cauli
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, c/Jaume Roig s/n, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
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