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Urinary p-cresol in autism spectrum disorder
Antonio M Persico1, Valerio Napolioni
1Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry Unit, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy. a.persico@unicampus.it
Neurotoxicology and Teratology
|September 15, 2012
Summary
Elevated levels of p-cresol, a compound from gut bacteria, are found in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This may worsen ASD severity and gut issues, aiding in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Environmental Health
- Microbiology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with heterogeneous causes, including genetic and environmental factors.
- Environmental exposure to p-cresol, an organic aromatic compound, is common, with gut bacteria being a significant source.
- Elevated urinary p-cresol and p-cresylsulfate have been observed in children with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between p-cresol levels and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- To explore the potential role of p-cresol in ASD severity and gut dysfunction.
- To assess the utility of p-cresol as a biomarker for early ASD diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of urinary p-cresol and p-cresylsulfate levels in children with ASD.
- Correlation of p-cresol levels with clinical severity, sex, and history of behavioral regression.
- Investigation of potential sources of p-cresol excess in ASD.
Main Results:
- Elevated urinary p-cresol and p-cresylsulfate were found in autistic children under 8 years old.
- Higher p-cresol levels were associated with female sex, greater clinical severity, and behavioral regression.
- Potential sources include gut infections, constipation, antibiotics, and intestinal permeability.
Conclusions:
- P-cresol may exacerbate ASD severity and gut dysfunction in affected children.
- P-cresol elevation in autistic children warrants further investigation into its sources and impact.
- P-cresol could be a component of a multibiomarker panel for diagnosing ASD in young children.
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