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Association between Autism Spectrum Disorder, Trace Elements, and Intracranial Fluid Spaces
Matej Mlinarič1, Maja Jekovec Vrhovšek2, David Neubauer3
1Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Division of Paediatrics University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška c. 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|August 10, 2024
Summary
This study found elevated levels of specific trace elements, including vanadium and silver, in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These elements correlated with brain imaging findings, suggesting an environmental impact on ASD development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Environmental Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disorder influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
- Identifying environmental factors is crucial for understanding ASD etiology.
- The relationship between trace elements, brain MRI, and ASD requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between trace element levels and brain MRI findings in children with ASD.
- To explore potential environmental factors contributing to ASD development.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 194 children (including controls) and retrospective analysis of 28 children with available MRI.
- Urine analysis for trace element levels in all participants.
- Measurement of linear indexes for ventricular volumes using brain MRI.
Main Results:
- Children with ASD exhibited higher levels of vanadium, rubidium, thallium, and silver.
- These elevated trace elements correlated with ventricular volumes in ASD children.
- No significant correlation was found between the severity of ASD deficits and brain MRI indexes, except for a negative correlation with magnesium.
Conclusions:
- Trace elements appear to impact children with autism spectrum disorder.
- Further multi-centric studies are necessary to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
