Autism spectrum disorders - Exogenous protein insult

The immune-response perspective described herein is intended to explore how certain environmental proteins may affect neuro-cognitive development in children. Specifically, proteins inherent in natural rubber latex are known to cause severe and pervasive immune responses. More specifically, the Hevea Brasiliensis proteins in natural rubber latex may trigger immunoglobulin-E mediated reaction antibodies and influence cross-react immune responses to other exogenous/endogenous proteins. In adults, repeated exposure to the Hevea Brasiliensis proteins has been shown to cause an increased incidence of sensitization, adverse allergic reactions, and even death through anaphylactic shock. Natural rubber latex has seen a dramatic increase in usage over the last 30-years (e.g., health care industry, consumer products). The timing, frequency, intensity, and type of exposure to such proteins may influence the incidence, degree of atypicality, and prevalence of autism spectrum disorders. Therefore, research efforts should be directed at exploring how immune responses to such proteins affect lymphocyte sensitivity, enzyme regulation, and neural formation during prenatal/neonatal development.