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Published on: March 25, 2016
Autism-specific maternal autoantibodies recognize critical proteins in developing brain
D Braunschweig1, P Krakowiak, P Duncanson
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
Translational Psychiatry
|July 11, 2013
Summary
Maternal autoantibodies targeting specific fetal brain antigens are linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Identifying these biomarkers advances understanding of ASD causes and potential therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental conditions affecting approximately 1 in 88 children in the U.S.
- Previous research identified ASD-specific maternal autoantibodies targeting fetal brain antigens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the primary antigens involved in maternal autoantibody-related (MAR) autism.
- To investigate the association between specific maternal autoantibody reactivity and ASD severity.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of maternal autoantibody reactivity against seven key antigens: lactate dehydrogenase A and B (LDH), cypin, stress-induced phosphoprotein 1 (STIP1), collapsin response mediator proteins 1 and 2 (CRMP1, CRMP2), and Y-box-binding protein.
- Comparison of antibody reactivity in mothers of children with ASD versus control mothers.
- Correlation of maternal antibody profiles with ASD-related behaviors in children.
Main Results:
- A specific combination of maternal autoantibodies targeting LDH, STIP1, and CRMP1 and/or cypin was found in 23% of mothers of ASD children, compared to 1% in controls.
- Children with ASD born to mothers with these specific antibodies exhibited significantly elevated stereotypical behaviors (P<0.0002).
- The identified antibody panel demonstrated over 99% specificity for autism risk.
Conclusions:
- This study identifies a panel of seven primary antigens associated with MAR autism.
- Specific maternal autoantibody profiles serve as significant biomarkers for autism risk.
- These findings enhance the understanding of autism's etiologic mechanisms and open avenues for therapeutic interventions.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism 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.
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.
01:22Development of Immunocompetence
The initiation of cell-mediated immunity can be observed as early as the third month of fetal growth, with active antibody-mediated immunity following approximately one month later.
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...