Is autism spectrum disorder an inflammation?

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Neuroscience
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
• The role of inflammation in ASD etiology is an area of ongoing research.
• Biomarkers for inflammation in ASD require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate serum Adenosine deaminase (ADA) and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) levels in children with ASD.
• To assess the relationship between these enzyme levels and ASD severity, as measured by the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS).

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 37 children diagnosed with ASD and 27 typically developing children (ages 2-12).
• Serum samples were collected to measure ADA and DPP-IV levels.
• Psychiatric evaluations using DSM-5 criteria and CARS were conducted.

Main Results:

• No significant demographic differences were observed between ASD and control groups.
• Children with ASD exhibited significantly higher serum ADA levels compared to controls.
• Children with ASD showed significantly lower serum DPP-IV levels than controls.
• A positive correlation was found between DPP-IV levels and CARS scores.

Conclusions:

• Altered serum ADA and DPP-IV levels in children with ASD suggest a potential role for inflammation in the disorder's development.
• These findings may contribute to understanding the biological underpinnings of ASD.
• Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic implications of targeting inflammation in ASD.