Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Video Imaging and Spatiotemporal Maps to Analyze Gastrointestinal Motility in Mice
07:41

Video Imaging and Spatiotemporal Maps to Analyze Gastrointestinal Motility in Mice

Published on: February 3, 2016

[Gastrointestinal abnormalities in children with autism]

Jolanta Wasilewska1, Elzbieta Jarocka-Cyrta, Maciej Kaczmarski

  • 1Uniwersytet Medyczny w Białymstoku, Klinika Pediatrii, Gastroenterologii i Alergologii. jolanta@umwb.edu.pl

Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski : Organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego
|August 5, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Gastrointestinal problems like constipation and diarrhea are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Dietary interventions show promise, suggesting a gut-brain connection in ASD.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatrics

Context:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
  • Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are frequently reported in children with ASD, impacting their quality of life.

Purpose:

  • This review synthesizes current literature on the prevalence and nature of GI problems in children with ASD.
  • To explore the potential link between the gut microbiome, diet, and ASD symptoms.

Summary:

  • GI symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal distension affect 9-54% of children with ASD.
  • Reported GI abnormalities include inflammation, increased intestinal permeability, dysbiosis, and food intolerances.
  • Dietary interventions have shown potential benefits for behavior and cognition in some children with ASD.

Impact:

  • Highlights the significant gastrointestinal burden in children with ASD.
  • Suggests a functional relationship between the alimentary tract and the central nervous system in ASD.
  • Identifies a need for further research into the specific mechanisms and epidemiological data of GI issues in ASD.

Related Concept Videos

Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
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.
Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders01:20

Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Gastrointestinal or GI motility disorders are characterized by irregular gastrointestinal tract movements, disrupting food transit from the mouth to the anus. They are caused by damage or dysfunction in gut muscles or nerves. These disorders can cause symptoms such as severe constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and swallowing difficulties. Disorders can affect any segment of the GI tract and range widely in severity, from common conditions like GERD to life-threatening conditions like...
Other Disorders of Digestive System01:30

Other Disorders of Digestive System

The gastrointestinal tract is susceptible to various disorders. If the lower esophageal sphincter is damaged, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the lining. This condition is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (known as heartburn) and may cause chest pain and difficulty swallowing. In the stomach, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, chronic alcohol consumption, bacterial infections such as Helicobacter...
Gut-Brain Axis01:22

Gut-Brain Axis

The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome I: Introduction01:17

Irritable Bowel Syndrome I: Introduction

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is characterized by functional disturbances in the gastrointestinal system, presenting a cluster of symptoms without evident structural or biochemical abnormalities. It primarily affects the large intestine and may cause abdominal pain, bloating, excessive gas, diarrhea, constipation, or both.
IBS is a chronic condition that can persist over a long period or recur frequently.
The pathogenesis of IBS involves a complex interplay of the following factors:
Altered...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome01:23

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

DefinitionIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent combinations of abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.Pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndromeIts pathophysiology is multifactorial, involving disturbances in motility, sensory processing, microbial balance, barrier integrity, and gut–brain communication. These mechanisms interact to produce symptoms that vary across IBS subtypes.Altered Motility PatternsDisordered...