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Increased serum midkine levels in autism spectrum disorder patients

Erman Esnafoglu1, Selma Cirrik2

  • 1a Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Research and Training Hospital , Ordu University , Ordu , Turkey.

The International Journal of Neuroscience
|November 23, 2017
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Serum midkine (MK) levels are significantly higher in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This suggests MK may play a role in the development of ASD.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Midkine (MK) is a growth factor implicated in neural development and neuroprotection.
  • MK is also associated with cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and schizophrenia.
  • Its potential role in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) remains unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the involvement of midkine (MK) in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Main Methods:

  • Serum MK levels were quantified using ELISA in 38 patients diagnosed with ASD.
  • A control group of 32 healthy individuals was included for comparison.
  • ASD severity was evaluated using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale.

Main Results:

  • Serum MK concentrations were significantly elevated in ASD patients (11.51 ± 8.53 pg/ml) compared to healthy controls (6.19 ± 3.94 pg/ml).
  • The difference in MK levels between the groups was statistically significant (p = 0.007).

Conclusions:

  • Elevated serum MK levels suggest a potential role for midkine in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms by which MK influences ASD development.
Keywords:
Midkineautism spectrum disordersheparin-binding growth factorneurotrophic factorpeliotropic effects

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