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Childhood autism: a complex disorder
Insights
Researchers found increased levels of N-substituted peptides in the urine of psychotic and autistic children, suggesting potential diagnostic markers for these neurodevelopmental disorders.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder and psychosis share complex etiologies.
- Biochemical markers may aid in diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate urinary peptide profiles in children with autism and psychosis.
- To identify potential diagnostic biomarkers for these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Collected 24-hour urine samples from psychotic and autistic children.
- Used benzoic acid precipitation and G-25 column chromatography for fractionation.
- Analyzed peptide material using P2 gel electrophoresis.
Main Results:
- Filtration patterns from G-25 columns showed potential diagnostic value.
- Increased levels of peptide material, particularly N-substituted peptides, were identified.
- Bioactive factors within these peptide fractions are under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Urinary N-substituted peptides may serve as diagnostic indicators for psychosis and autism.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the role of these peptides in etiology.
- A working hypothesis regarding the etiological role of these factors is proposed.
Abstract:
Twenty-four-hour urine samples from psychotic and autistic children were precipitated with benzoic acid at pH 4.3. Fractionation of the aromatic complexes thus formed with benzoic acid-protein and peptides and uric acid, proteins and peptides on G-25 columns-yielded filtration patterns that may be of diagnostic value. Peptide material could be extracted from the formed complexes and refractionated on P2 gels. Increased levels of peptide material, especially of N-substituted peptides, could be demonstrated. Several bioactive factors (Reichelt et al. 1981) are under study. Possible etiological factors are discussed, and a working hypothesis is presented.