Activation of the inflammatory response system in autism
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 26, 2026

Strategies for Assessing Autistic-Like Behaviors in Mice
Published on: September 20, 2024
Jan Croonenberghs1, Eugene Bosmans, Dirk Deboutte
1University Center of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Antwerp, Belgium.
Background/Aim:
There is now some evidence that autism may be accompanied by abnormalities in the inflammatory response system (IRS). Products of the IRS, such as proinflammatory cytokines, may induce some of the behavioral symptoms of autism, such as social withdrawal, resistance to novelty and sleep disturbances. The main aim of the present study was to examine whether autism is accompanied by an activation of the IRS.
Methods:
We measured the production of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, the IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), interferon (IFN)-gamma and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha by whole blood and the serum concentrations of IL-6, the IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) and IL-1RA.
Results:
This study showed a significantly increased production of IFN-gamma and IL-1RA and a trend toward a significantly increased production of IL-6 and TNF-alpha by whole blood of autistic children. There were no significant differences in the serum concentrations of IL-6, IL-2R and IL-1RA between autistic and normal children.
Conclusions:
These results suggest that autism may be accompanied by an activation of the monocytic (increased IL-1RA) and Th-1-like (increased IFN-gamma) arm of the IRS. It is hypothesized that increased production of proinflammatory cytokines could play a role in the pathophysiology of autism.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Response I: Vascular and Cellular
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Autoimmune Disorders
Concept and Mechanism of Autoimmune Diseases
The immune system...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Gut-Brain Axis
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease

