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Published on: October 17, 2025
Matrix metalloproteinases in autism spectrum disorders
Morsi W Abdallah1, Tanja M Michel2
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Rostock University Medical Center, Gehlsheimer Straße 20, Rostock, 18147 Germany ; Department of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Rostock University Medical Center, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, Rostock, 18147 Germany.
Abstract:
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are group of developmental disabilities with a complex neurobiological basis including putative changes in the immune system. They are characterized by pervasive qualitative abnormalities in social interactions, communication, and stereotyped behaviour. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) represent a group of proteases which play an important role in neuroinflammation and neurodevelopment. Therefore, they possibly have a crucial function in the etiopathology of ASD. In this review, we summarize the plausibility of the hypothesis that MMPs are involved in the neuropathology of ASD. Possible pathways through which MMPs can contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD are discussed including neuroinflammatory mechanisms inclusive of mediating neuropathological effects of infections, the associations between MMPs and other biomarkers such as cytokines, chemokines and neurotrophic factors. Despite sufficient evidence for such an involvement of MMPs in the neuropathology of ASD, they have not yet been extensively studied in this context. Thus, further research in this field is not only urgently needed but also very promising and may also lead to new therapeutic approaches.
Insights
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may play a role in the neuropathology of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Further research into MMPs could reveal new therapeutic strategies for ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental disabilities with suspected immune system involvement.
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are key players in neuroinflammation and neurodevelopment, suggesting a potential role in ASD etiopathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the hypothesis linking MMPs to the neuropathology of ASD.
- To explore potential pathways, including neuroinflammation and interactions with other biomarkers, through which MMPs may contribute to ASD pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing existing evidence on MMPs in neuroinflammation and neurodevelopment.
- Discussion of proposed mechanisms connecting MMPs to ASD neuropathology.
- Identification of research gaps and future directions.
Main Results:
- MMPs are implicated in neuroinflammatory processes relevant to ASD.
- Associations exist between MMPs and other biomarkers like cytokines, chemokines, and neurotrophic factors.
- Evidence suggests MMPs are involved in ASD neuropathology, though not extensively studied.
Conclusions:
- MMPs are plausibly involved in the neuropathology of ASD.
- Further research on MMPs in ASD is warranted and may lead to novel therapeutic approaches.
- Understanding MMPs' role could advance ASD treatment strategies.
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