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Analysis of Microglia and Monocyte-derived Macrophages from the Central Nervous System by Flow Cytometry
Published on: June 22, 2017
Peripheral Blood Monocytes as Biomarkers of Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Xing-Da Ju1,2,3, Pai-Hao Zhang1, Qiang Li1
1School of Psychology, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China.
Research on Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
|March 7, 2025
Summary
Monocyte counts are significantly elevated in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This meta-analysis suggests monocytes may serve as potential biomarkers for NDDs, aiding in early detection and diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation are increasingly linked to neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).
- The mononuclear phagocyte system, including monocytes, plays a role in NDD pathogenesis.
- The utility of monocyte counts as a reliable biomarker for NDDs is currently debated due to inconsistent findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze existing studies on monocyte counts in individuals with NDDs.
- To clarify whether monocyte counts can serve as a reliable biomarker for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus.
- Seventeen articles and 20 independent studies were included in the meta-analysis.
- Extracted variables included study details, sample characteristics, and monocyte count data.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in monocyte counts was observed in individuals with five types of NDDs compared to typical development (TD) groups (g = 0.36, 95% CI [0.23, 0.49]).
- Subgroup analyses did not reveal significant differences in monocyte counts based on NDD type, gender, or age.
Conclusions:
- Aberrant monocyte counts are a common finding in neurodevelopmental disorder cases.
- Elevated monocyte counts show potential as biomarkers for NDDs, warranting further investigation for early detection and clinical diagnosis.
