Los Angeles, CA – A recent study conducted in Los Angeles, California has revealed a potential link between autism and the gut microbiome of children. Researchers found that children with autism possess a different bacteria composition in their stomachs compared to those without the condition. These differences in the microbiome can impact brain function, specifically areas related to behavior and learning. The study raises concerns about the potential effects of diet and environmental factors during pregnancy on the development of the microbiome in babies.
The research, led by the University of Southern California, examined stool samples and brain scans of children aged eight to 17 with autism in comparison to typically developing children of the same age group. Results showed that autistic children had lower levels of certain metabolites essential for digestion, leading to decreased production of serotonin in the gut. This imbalance in the gut microbiome is believed to contribute to symptoms of autism such as communication difficulties and behavioral issues.
While the ‘gut-brain’ connection theory has been previously debated, this study reignites interest by focusing on specific sets of metabolites that play a crucial role in brain health. Lead researcher Lisa Aziz-Zadeh emphasized the impact of gut metabolites on brain function and subsequent behavior, establishing a possible connection between gut health and autism-related behaviors. The findings also suggest a growing prevalence of autism cases in the United States, with one in 36 children currently diagnosed, compared to one in 142 in the early 2000s.
The study, published in Nature Communications, involved a comparison of 43 children with autism to 41 neurotypical children from healthcare clinics in Los Angeles. Through a series of assessments and MRI scans, researchers identified metabolites related to the ‘tryptophan pathway’ that were significantly lower in children with autism, affecting their serotonin levels and gastrointestinal issues. There is also a higher likelihood of gut microbiome disturbances in autistic children, potentially linked to prenatal maternal antibiotic exposure.
Experts have cautioned that while the study provides valuable insights into the gut-brain connection in autism, further research is needed to establish causality. It is essential to consider various factors contributing to the rise in autism cases, including changes in diagnosis criteria and environmental influences. Despite limitations in the study, the findings shed light on the intricate relationship between gut health, brain function, and symptoms of autism, opening avenues for future research and potential treatments.