[A neuroprotective approach to optimizing treatment and correction activities in children with autism spectrum...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Genetics

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
• Neurotrophic factors and heat shock proteins play crucial roles in neuronal development and protection.
• Alterations in these factors may contribute to the pathophysiology of ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the neuroprotective potential of heat shock proteins (Hsp) and neurotrophins in children diagnosed with ASD.
• To quantify levels of specific neurotrophic factors and heat shock proteins in children with ASD.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of sixty-eight children diagnosed with ASD (ICD-10 F84), aged 5–12 years, were enrolled.
• Standard clinical examinations were conducted.
• Blood serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27), and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) were measured.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in serum levels of NGF, BDNF, Hsp27, and Hsp70 was observed in the total group of children with ASD.
• Boys with severe ASD exhibited particularly diminished levels of these neuroprotective factors.
• These findings indicate a potential deficit in neuroprotective mechanisms within the brain.

Conclusions:

• The reduced levels of NGF, BDNF, Hsp27, and Hsp70 in children with ASD suggest compromised neuroprotection.
• These biochemical alterations highlight the need for further investigation into the underlying mechanisms of ASD.
• Developing targeted treatment strategies to enhance neuroprotection in ASD is warranted.