Recent research has brought to light an important discovery: a metabolite of fatty acids present in neonatal blood could influence the severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms.
This discovery paves the way for possible early diagnosis and intervention, potentially improving outcomes for those affected by ASD. Scientists have identified a correlation between fatty acid metabolites present in umbilical cord blood and autism symptoms in children. ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impairs learning abilities and social interactions.
In recent years, awareness regarding ASD has significantly increased, but many aspects of the condition remain poorly understood. Although the exact causes of ASD are not yet fully clear, current evidence indicates that neuroinflammation plays a crucial role.
Several studies on murine models of ASD have suggested that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and their metabolites during pregnancy could influence the development of the condition.
In particular, PUFA metabolites regulated by cytochrome P450 (CYP) seem to impact fetal development in mice, causing deficits that are closely linked to ASD symptoms. However, it remains to be verified whether the same holds true for humans, requiring further studies. To explore this possibility, a Japanese research team led by Professor Hideo Matsuzaki from the Research Center for Child Mental Development at Fukui University analyzed CYP-PUFA levels in umbilical cord blood samples.
The study, published in the journal Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, provides new insights into the possible causes of ASD. Professor Matsuzaki explained that CYP metabolism produces both epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs), known for their anti-inflammatory effects, and hydroxy fatty acids (diols), which possess inflammatory properties. The research suggests that an altered balance between these metabolites during the fetal period – with lower levels of EpFA and higher levels of diols – could influence the severity of ASD symptoms in children. The study identified that high levels of 11-12-diHETrE in umbilical cord blood are associated with ASD symptoms such as social affect (SA) and adaptive functioning (AF).
Conversely, lower levels of 8-9-diHETrE appear to be correlated with repetitive and restrictive behaviors (RRB). To verify these hypotheses, the researchers examined the link between PUFA metabolites in umbilical cord blood and ASD scores in a sample of 200 children. Blood samples were collected immediately after birth and properly stored, while ASD symptoms and adaptive functioning were assessed when the children were six years old, with the support of their mothers. Statistical analyses of the results revealed that a compound present in cord blood, diHETrE, derived from arachidonic acid, could have a significant impact on the severity of ASD.
These findings could have fundamental implications for the early diagnosis and treatment of ASD.
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