Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026

Dynamic Clamp Methods to Investigate Impaired Neuronal Excitability Associated with Autism
Published on: October 17, 2025
Peptides' role in autism with emphasis on exorphins
Karl L Reichelt1, Dag Tveiten, Anne-Mari Knivsberg
1Department of Pediatric Research, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.
Problem:
The nature of the peptides found increased in urine from autism needs verification of their structure, especially those that show opioid activity.
Methods:
The peptides were separated on reverse phase C-18 HPLC in Trifluoroacetic acid-acetonitril gradients. Peaks eluting where synthetic opioids appear, and peaks that are common to most autistic children were analyzed by mass spectrometry and fragmentation pattern on a quadropole mass-spectrometer.
Results:
We could demonstrate exorphins in the urine from autistic children, and their length varied from one patient to the next.
Conclusion:
Exorphins are found in urine of autistic children and may account for their symptoms.
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