In a new study from Columbia University, researchers found molecular signatures of gut inflammation linked to the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
These findings, which provide insights into abnormal brain development, could eventually lead to a test to screen for ASD at birth.
The new research aligns with growing evidence that the risk of ASD is increased by fetal exposure to inflammation.
In earlier studies, the researchers linked ASD risk to prenatal exposure to maternal fever, and to influenza infection and herpes virus type 2 infection—two of many potential triggers for maternal inflammation and ASD.
In the new study, researchers analyzed the presence of 60 molecular markers of immune response, including cytokines and growth factors.
Blood samples were collected during pregnancy (maternal mid-gestational blood sample) and at birth (cord blood) from 957 children, roughly half of whom were later diagnosed with ASD.
The study linked ASD risk to groupings of inflammation-related molecules, with different groupings seen in boys versus girls. Among the most predictive molecules were interleukins like IL1RA and IL4.
Four molecules thought to be involved in fetal brain development were also linked to ASD risk in both sexes: TNFα, Serpin E1, VCAM1, and IL1β.
Biomarkers collected at birth were only slightly less predictive than those collected during pregnancy.
The research suggests a period of vulnerability during gestation when inflammation can interfere with central nervous system development.
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The study is published in Molecular Psychiatry and was conducted by Xiaoyu (Jason) Che et al.
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