Decreased plasma myeloperoxidase associated with probiotic therapy in autistic children

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Neuroscience
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
• Alterations in gut microbiota and associated biochemical markers are increasingly recognized in ASD.
• Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzyme involved in inflammatory processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate plasma myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels in children with autism.
• To investigate the association between MPO concentration and probiotic therapy in autistic children.
• To compare MPO, copper, and zinc levels between autistic children and neurotypical controls.

Main Methods:

• Plasma samples were collected from 49 autistic children and 36 neurotypical controls.
• Myeloperoxidase (MPO) plasma concentration was measured using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs).
• Plasma levels of copper and zinc were also analyzed in relation to MPO and probiotic use.

Main Results:

• Autistic children not receiving therapy showed no significant difference in MPO levels compared to controls.
• Autistic children undergoing probiotic therapy exhibited significantly lower plasma MPO levels.
• Lower plasma copper levels were observed in autistic children taking probiotics, while zinc levels remained unchanged.

Conclusions:

• The study suggests a relationship between reduced MPO levels in some autistic individuals and probiotic therapy.
• Probiotic therapy may influence gut absorption properties, potentially leading to lower copper levels.
• Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms linking probiotics, MPO, and copper metabolism in autism.