Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2025

07:38
Strategies for Assessing Autistic-Like Behaviors in Mice
Published on: September 20, 2024
844
Indoxyl Sulfate and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Literature Review
Zoë R Hill1, Christina K Flynn2, James B Adams2
1Barrett, The Honors College, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|December 17, 2024
Summary
Indoxyl sulfate, a bacterial toxin, is elevated in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This finding suggests a potential link between this toxin and ASD core and comorbid symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Indoxyl sulfate is a bacterially derived metabolite with known toxic effects.
- Elevated indoxyl sulfate is linked to various health conditions, including chronic kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, and mood disorders.
- This metabolite is produced from tryptophan and is associated with decreased neurotransmitter levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of indoxyl sulfate in relation to autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- To investigate the association between indoxyl sulfate levels and ASD, including its core and comorbid symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of existing studies was conducted.
- Six studies examining indoxyl sulfate levels in children with ASD were identified and analyzed.
Main Results:
- All six reviewed studies reported significantly elevated urinary indoxyl sulfate levels in children with ASD compared to typically developing children.
- Indoxyl sulfate was identified as a toxic metabolite significantly increased in a subset of children with ASD.
Conclusions:
- Indoxyl sulfate is a potential contributing factor to both core and comorbid symptoms in autism spectrum disorder.
- Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of targeting indoxyl sulfate in ASD management.
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
59
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
59
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
38
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
38
Modeling in Therapy
46
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
46
Intellectual Disability
38
Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning that manifest during the developmental period. This condition encompasses challenges in reasoning, memory, problem-solving, and learning, accompanied by impairments in everyday life skills, such as communication, self-care, and social interactions. Intellectual disability affects approximately 1% of the population in the United States, impacting an estimated 5...
38
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
23
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
23

