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Infant microbes and metabolites point to childhood neurodevelopmental disorders

Angelica P Ahrens1, Tuulia Hyötyläinen2, Joseph R Petrone1

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA.

Cell
|April 4, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Early life factors like infections, antibiotics, and stress are linked to neurodevelopmental disorders (ND). Microbiome and biomarkers in infants may predict future ND diagnosis, enabling early intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pediatrics
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders (ND) represent a significant public health concern.
  • Identifying early-life risk factors is crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between early-life factors and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorder (ND) diagnosis.
  • To explore the role of infant biomarkers, including microbiome and metabolome, in predicting ND development.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective longitudinal study followed 16,440 Swedish children for over 20 years.
  • Data collected included questionnaires on infections, antibiotic use, stress, prenatal factors, and family history.
  • Biomarkers assessed: cord serum metabolome/lipidome, HLA genotype, infant microbiota, and stool metabolome.

Main Results:

  • 1,197 children developed an ND, with significant associations found for general ND and specific subtypes (intellectual disability, speech disorder, ADHD, autism).
  • Microbiome alterations and early mood/gastrointestinal issues were linked to future ND diagnosis.
  • Findings suggest interplay between immunodysregulation, metabolism, stress, early infections, and antibiotic exposure.

Conclusions:

  • Early-life biomarkers and risk factors converge, offering a foundation for predicting neurodevelopmental disorders.
  • This large-scale, prospective study highlights potential for early-life prediction and intervention strategies for ND.

Keywords:
ASDAkkermansiaCoprococcusPFOAantibioticsequolinflammationotitispediatricstryptophan

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