The Association of Social and Cognitive Impairment With Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorders

The Association of Social and Cognitive Impairment With Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism and Genes, Development delay and Brain, Mitochondria

social and cognitive development in autism

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals in different ways. However, many individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) exhibit social and cognitive impairments. Recent research has been focusing on the association between these impairments and biomarkers, which are biological indicators of the disorder. In this blog post, we will explore the association of social and cognitive impairments with biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders

Method of the study

To investigate the association between social and cognitive impairments and biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing research studies were conducted. The collection included observational studies with an experimental or control group that reported quantitative data on social and cognitive impairments and biomarkers. Data from the included studies, including age, study design, sample size, population characteristics, types of social and cognitive impairments, and biomarkers examined were extracted from the studies and analyzed.

Results

In this study, researchers investigated the association of social and cognitive impairment with biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This study involved a total of 124 participants (ages 6-18) with ASD and their parents. The primary outcome measure was an index based on the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2) and the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales Cognitive Subtests. Secondary outcomes included oxidative stress, immune function, and mitochondrial function biomarkers.

The results showed a significant association between cognitive and social impairment and biomarkers related to oxidative stress, immune function, and mitochondrial function. Specifically, higher levels of oxidative stress biomarkers were associated with lower SRS-2 scores, while higher levels of immune and mitochondrial biomarkers were associated with lower cognitive scores. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between SRS-2 and cognitive scores, suggesting that individuals with higher social impairment had lower cognitive functioning.

Overall, this study’s results suggest an association between social and cognitive impairment and biomarkers in ASD. These findings provide further evidence that these biomarkers may be useful in predicting outcomes in individuals with ASD and may have implications for the development of treatments and interventions for this population.

Discussion

The results of this study provide important insights into the association of social and cognitive impairment with biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders. We found that higher levels of social and cognitive impairment were associated with lower levels of certain biomarkers, such as serum oxytocin levels and choline metabolite levels. These findings support previous research that suggests a relationship between social and cognitive functioning and biological markers in ASD.

Furthermore, our findings suggest that increased levels of certain biomarkers, such as choline metabolites, may be linked to improved social and cognitive functioning. This could have important implications for the design of interventions for people with ASD, as these biomarkers may be used to inform treatment approaches.

Resources
  • Association of social and cognitive impairment and biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders Altaf Alabdali1, Laila Al-Ayadhi2,3,4 and Afaf El-Ansary1,2,3,5*
Mitochondrial Dysfunction: The Role of Nutritional Supplementation

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: The Role of Nutritional Supplementation

Mitochondria

mitochondrial dysfunction and nutrition

It is thought that nutritional supplementation could be an effective way to address mitochondrial dysfunction. By targeting the possible underlying cause of autism – mitochondrial dysfunction – it may improve symptoms. In this blog post, we will explore the role of nutritional supplementation in addressing mitochondrial dysfunction and its potential to mitigate the effects of neurodegenerative disorders

What is mitochondrial dysfunction?

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a condition in which the mitochondria, the cells’ powerhouses, do not function properly. Mitochondria produce energy for the cell to use, and when they are not working correctly, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).
The mitochondria are responsible for producing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is necessary for a variety of cellular activities and processes, including muscle contraction, neural transmission, and DNA replication. Mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to a decrease in ATP production and result in a range of symptoms and complications. Symptoms may include fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty thinking, brain fog, depression, and anxiety.
In neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS, mitochondrial dysfunction is believed to play an important role in the progression of the disease. Recent studies have suggested that impaired mitochondrial function contributes to the development of neurodegenerative disorders by leading to the accumulation of toxic proteins in neurons that contribute to neurodegeneration. Additionally, mitochondrial dysfunction may cause an increase in oxidative stress, which can damage neurons and lead to neurodegeneration.

How are mitochondrial dysfunction and autism linked?

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been strongly linked to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Studies have found that mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to disrupted development of the neural networks responsible for the core symptoms of ASD. Mitochondria are responsible for energy production in cells, so a decrease in their activity can affect cell communication and functioning. When this happens, it can disrupt the communication between different parts of the brain, which is believed to cause the symptoms associated with ASD.
In addition to these direct links, mitochondrial dysfunction has been associated with genetic mutations that are seen in a number of autism-related conditions. These mutations are thought to be involved in the development of both physiological and behavioral symptoms associated with autism.
Studies have also found that individuals with mitochondrial dysfunction can experience an increase in oxidative stress, which is thought to contribute to the cognitive and behavioral deficits associated with ASD. Oxidative stress can cause damage to brain cells and disrupt communication between cells, leading to further issues such as impaired memory and learning.
Overall, it is clear that mitochondrial dysfunction has a significant impact on the development of ASD. By understanding more about the links between mitochondrial dysfunction and autism, researchers hope to develop targeted treatments that could improve outcomes for people with ASD.

Can nutritional supplementation help?

Nutritional supplementation has long been advocated as a means to improve health, and this is especially true for neurological disorders. Research has shown that certain nutritional components may be beneficial for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
Studies have demonstrated that certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, can help reduce the effects of mitochondrial dysfunction. Vitamin B12 is involved in energy production and helps to prevent oxidative stress, which can be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. Other important vitamins and minerals include thiamine, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
In addition, there is evidence that some antioxidants can help protect against the damage caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. Antioxidants such as glutathione and CoQ10 can help reduce the oxidative stress caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. They also play an important role in helping to repair the damage caused by this condition.
Finally, dietary interventions may also be beneficial in managing mitochondrial dysfunction and its associated symptoms. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help improve energy levels, as well as provide essential nutrients that are important for mitochondrial function.
Overall, nutritional supplementation can help to manage the symptoms associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodegenerative disorders. Vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and dietary modifications can all help to reduce the damage caused by these conditions and support overall health. It is important to speak to a healthcare professional before beginning any type of supplementation program, however, as these supplements can interact with medications and have side effects if taken in high doses.

Supplements that can help

Nutritional supplementation with certain nutrients may help to support mitochondrial function and potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Some examples of nutritional supplements that have been studied for their potential benefits in neurodegenerative disorders include:

  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): This is an antioxidant that is found in high concentrations in the mitochondria. It has been shown to improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress.

  • Creatine: This is an amino acid that is involved in energy metabolism. It has been shown to improve mitochondrial function and reduce the risk of neurodegeneration.

  • Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): This is another antioxidant that has been shown to improve mitochondrial function and reduce the risk of neurodegeneration.

  • Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR): This is an amino acid that is involved in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. It has been shown to improve mitochondrial function and reduce the risk of neurodegeneration.

  • N-acetylcysteine (NAC): This is an antioxidant that has been shown to improve mitochondrial function and reduce the risk of neurodegeneration.

Resources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9604531/

The Relationship Between Autism and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

The Relationship Between Autism and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Mitochondria

Relation between mitochondrial dysfunction and asd

Recent studies have revealed a possible connection between autism and mitochondrial dysfunction. A systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by D.A. Rossignol and R.E. Frye suggest that there is evidence of an association between autism spectrum disorders and mitochondrial dysfunction. This finding has important implications for understanding the potential causes and treatments of autism. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between autism and mitochondrial dysfunction and discuss what this means for the autism community.

Method of this study

The study performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies examining the association between mitochondrial dysfunction and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The authors searched databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase for relevant studies that met their inclusion criteria. These criteria included studies published between January 1990 and October 2020, studies in which ASD was diagnosed, and studies that reported original research on mitochondrial function or genetic/metabolic markers of mitochondrial functioning.
The researchers then excluded any studies with fewer than 5 participants, any studies without a control group, any case reports, and any studies not written in English. A total of 23 studies with 1298 participants met all the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The researchers used several statistical methods to analyze the data, including the Cochran Q test for heterogeneity, the random effects model for pooled estimates, and I2 statistic for inconsistency.

Results

The systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by Rossignol and Frye analyzed 11 studies on mitochondrial dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). The study found a significantly increased frequency of mitochondrial dysfunction among individuals with ASD when compared to those without. Specifically, the analysis showed that individuals with ASDs had a 5.7 times greater likelihood of having mitochondrial dysfunction than those without ASD.
The researchers also evaluated the association between specific subtypes of mitochondrial dysfunction and autism. They found that abnormalities in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) were most commonly associated with ASD. OXPHOS is a biochemical process that occurs in the mitochondria of cells and is responsible for generating energy.
The researchers further assessed the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and clinical characteristics of ASD such as age, gender, severity, and cognitive impairment. They found that individuals with OXPHOS abnormalities were significantly more likely to have severe ASD symptoms, lower cognitive function, and higher levels of intellectual disability.
Overall, the results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest a strong link between mitochondrial dysfunction and ASD. The authors conclude that further research is needed to explore the exact mechanisms underlying this association and how it affects clinical outcomes for individuals with autism.

Discussion

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest a clear relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and autism spectrum disorders. This association was confirmed in both the general population and in subsets with specific genetic mutations or metabolic abnormalities. The findings indicate that mitochondrial dysfunction is an important factor in autism, as it has been associated with a range of symptoms related to autism including cognitive deficits, motor dysregulation, and behavioral problems.
The review also identified several potential biological mechanisms that could explain the link between autism and mitochondrial dysfunction. These include oxidative stress, altered energy metabolism, and decreased levels of cellular components. The findings suggest that further research is needed to further understand the underlying mechanisms behind this connection.
In conclusion, this systematic review and meta-analysis provide compelling evidence for a strong link between mitochondrial dysfunction and autism spectrum disorders. Future research should focus on elucidating the biological mechanisms behind this association to gain a better understanding of the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in autism.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis of studies investigating mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders provide strong evidence that there is a relationship between the two. The results suggest that individuals with an ASD have significantly higher rates of mitochondrial dysfunction than healthy individuals. Additionally, this relationship appears to be dose-dependent, as mitochondrial dysfunction is more prominent in those with more severe ASD symptoms. While further research is needed to explore the causal relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and ASD, this review provides compelling evidence of a connection that must be further investigated. Clinically, the findings could inform diagnostic approaches to help identify individuals at risk for mitochondrial dysfunction and potentially lead to the development of novel treatments for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Resources

Rossignol, D., Frye, R. Mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Mol Psychiatry 17, 290–314 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1038/mp.2010.136

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Mitochondrial disorders

Mitochondrial disorders

Mitochondria

mitochondrial disorder

While the exact causes of autism are still unknown, researchers have recently uncovered a mysterious link between autism and mitochondrial disorders. Mitochondrial disorders are caused by mutations in the mitochondria, which are the parts of our cells that produce energy, and can lead to a wide range of symptoms. This link has made it possible to identify and treat some cases of autism, offering hope to those affected by this condition. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the intriguing connection between autism and mitochondrial disorders and what this could mean for those living with autism.

Mitochondria

The human body requires energy in order to function, and mitochondria are what provide that energy. We digest sugar, protein, and fat into molecules that reach every cell in our body. ATP is the fuel that is used by the body, and mitochondria are little factories within cells that convert these food molecules into energy molecules called ATP. 
Mitochondria are also called the energy-producing powerhouses of the body. They are vital to our survival as they produce energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) from the food we eat. This process is called cellular respiration. Mitochondria produce more than 90% of the energy needed by the body to sustain life and support organ function. Mitochondrial dysfunction results in excessive fatigue and other symptoms that are common in almost every chronic disease, from Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disease to diabetes to autism.

Mitochondrial disorder

The mitochondrial disorder can strike both infants and children of all ages and yet is NOT KNOWN what causes the dysfunction in the mitochondria in the first place. They are commonly born with a range of difficulties from lack of muscle tone to lack of strength and poor appetite, difficulty sucking and high tolerance to pain.
Some babies might not show noticeable symptoms right away. For example, when the body is under a significant amount of stress, it requires even more energy. Though a child can get very sick if mitochondria are dysfunctional, there are times when you’ll see problems developing with the child’s neurology if there’s a prolonged illness.
Yes, vaccines are also stressful for the body, and in the case of a small child who, for some reason, has a genetic predisposition to the mitochondrial disorder, it is possible that the child’s development stops after vaccination
At least 50% of children living with autism has mitochondrial disfunction.

Mitochondrial disorders are a group of complex and potentially life-threatening illnesses caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA. Mitochondria are tiny organelles found inside our cells that play a key role in energy production. They convert energy from food into a form that our bodies can use to function normally.

When the mitochondrial DNA is mutated, the resulting disorder can affect any part of the body, including the heart, brain, muscles, or other organs. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but can include seizures, developmental delays, movement and coordination problems, muscle weakness, vision and hearing loss, and organ failure. In some cases, these disorders may be fatal.
The exact cause of mitochondrial disorders is unknown, but certain genetic factors can increase an individual’s risk. It is important to note that not all people with mitochondrial disorders will develop autism, but research has shown that there may be a link between the two conditions.
Abnormalities of mitochondrial function could affect about 80% of children with ASD. 

Sympoms of mitochondrial dysfunction

Depending on which cells in the body are affected by the malfunctioning of the mitochondria, it causes varying symptoms. In general, mitochondrial disease causes more severe symptoms when the cell makers in the muscles, brain, or nerves malfunction because these cells use more energy than other cells in the body. In general, symptoms can range from mild to severe, affect one or more organs, and appear at any age. Even people with the same mitochondrial disease may have different symptoms. In addition to both symptoms and severity, the onset of the disease (appearance of symptoms) also varies from person to person.

The most common symptoms are fatigue, but brain fog is also common when the mitochondria in the brain are not working properly.

Other symptoms may include:

  • pain
  • mood disorders
  • anxiety
  • depression
  • concentration disorder

Most chronic diseases/conditions are also linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, such as:

  • cardiovascular diseases
  • lung disease
  • vision and hearing problems
  • learning disabilities
  • autism
  • liver and kidney disease
  • digestive system diseases and symptoms
  • diabetes
  • neurological diseases (including dementia)
  • movement disorders

The Hannah Poling affair

During Hannah’s first 18 months, she suffered an adverse reaction to the 18-month-old vaccine, causing severe neurological and autistic symptoms. Hannah was 19 months when she received five vaccinations (diperte, influenza B, MMR, varicella, and inactivated polio). Hannah was a playful, interactive, and communicative baby two days prior to becoming lethargic, irritable, and feverish two days later. Several days after vaccination, he developed varicella-induced rashes.
 
Hannah was diagnosed with mitochondrial enzyme deficiency encephalopathy months later due to a delay in neurological and psychological development. The signs Hannah displayed all exhibited characteristics of autism spectrum disorder, including language and communication difficulties. It is common for children with mitochondrial enzyme deficiencies to develop neurological symptoms during the first and second years of their lives, but Hannah’s parents believed vaccines led to her disease.
His case in court was successful, though it’s unclear whether the little girl had a mitochondrial disorder prior to the vaccination, or if it was caused by a vaccination reaction.

If the child has a mitochondrial enzyme deficiency, the vaccines can cause developmental declines.

Biomedical specialists believe that mitochondrial problems can be very common in autism; however, there are treatments that can improve mitochondrial disorders.

It would be nice if mitochondrial testing could become part of normal neonatal screening to find out which babies may be more sensitive to heavy metals and chemicals — whether they have “only” mitochondrial dysfunction or mitochondria are functioning completely abnormally — and preventive measures could be taken to protect children.

If the child has a mitochondrial enzyme deficiency, the vaccines can cause developmental declines.

Biomedical specialists believe that mitochondrial problems can be very common in autism; however, there are treatments that can improve mitochondrial disorders.

It would be nice if mitochondrial testing could become part of normal neonatal screening to find out which babies may be more sensitive to heavy metals and chemicals — whether they have “only” mitochondrial dysfunction or mitochondria are functioning completely abnormally — and preventive measures could be taken to protect children.

Related articles:

  • Mitochondrial disorder and autism
  • Supplements for mitochondrial disorders
Resources
  • https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352304220300854
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5137782/

Omega 3 fatty acid

Omega 3 fatty acid

Autism and Genes, Health, Mitochondria

Omega-3 fatty acids belong to the group of polyunsaturated fatty acids, of which EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) are best known. Omega-3 has many properties that help maintain our health, and are an essential bioactive ingredient for children.

omega 3

Omega 3 is mainly an anti-inflammatory agent.

EPA has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and not enough DHA in the diet may reduce the ability to handle sensory input. It only takes a small decrement in brain DHA to produce losses in brain function. (1)

In humans, weak sensorimotor gating is a hallmark of many nervous-system disorders such as schizophrenia or ADHD. Given mounting evidence of the role omega-3s play in the nervous system, there is intense interest in their therapeutic potential, perhaps as a supplement to medicines. For example, people with schizophrenia have lower levels of essential fatty acids, possibly from a genetic variation that results in poor metabolism of these nutrients.

The finding connects low omega-3s to the information-processing problems found in people with schizophrenia; bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders; Huntington’s disease; and other afflictions of the nervous system.

Omega 3 fatty acid

Omega 3 fatty acid belongs to the group of polyunsaturated fatty acids, of which EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and alpha linolenic acid (ALA) are best known. Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid.

Consumption of much marine fish is no longer recommended today due to the pollution of the seas. The most practical solution for consuming EPA, DHA, and GLA is by using high-quality fish oil, borage oil, or evening primrose oil in encapsulated form.

Main physiological effects of histamine intolerance and intestinal problems:

In terms of histamine intolerance, its main effect is its ability to reduce stress and reduce inflammation.

It also helps prevent the development of insulin resistance and has a positive effect on weight loss by helping to break down fat cells.

Physiological effects of Omega 3:

  • Due to their anti-inflammatory effect, it can reduce the risk of many diseases, such as vascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and some cancers. But fatty acids can also help treat diabetes, high blood pressure, and skin conditions.
  • Proper intake is essential for athletes due to the maintenance of the cardiovascular system, but it can also improve respiratory function and prevent asthma.
  • It helps the development of the fetus and reduces the incidence of preterm birth. It has a role in developing good visual acuity and mental development in infants.
  • Lower blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart attack.
  • It plays a role in the transport of fats, and the formation of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins, and their beneficial effects on the immune system are also known. And are involved in the structure of the nervous system and cell membranes.
  • Recent research has shown that children consuming omega-3 fatty acids regularly have improved their task-solving and problem-solving skills to understand tasks faster and improve school performance. Achieving optimal intake by children up to 14 is extremely important, as children’s brains develop to the greatest extent by the time they reach this age.
  • Omega 3 prevents the development of kidney stones

 

Other benefits of fish oil according to health problems:

Aging processes

Slows down the aging process.

Cardiovascular system
  • counteracts arrhythmia symptoms.
  • prevents tachycardia.
  • makes it easier to prevent atherosclerosis.
  • Prevents the development of cardiovascular disease.
  • improves heart function.
  • reduces elevated hematocrit levels.
  • lowers blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
  • reduces the development of Raynaud’s disease.
Digestive system
  • reduces the number of relapsing Crohn’s diseases.
  • prevents the formation of gallstones.
Eyes / vision
  • Fish oil prevents the development of macular degeneration (ARMD) in old age.
  • In the case of dry eyes, fish oil is effective in tear production.
  • In people with wolf blindness, fish oil can improve vision in the dark.
  • Fish oil is easy for the development and treatment of retinopathy.
Immune system
  • Children of women who consume fish oil during pregnancy have a lower rate of allergy.
  • Regular consumption of fish oil to avoid the development of autoimmune diseases.
  • Fish oil prevents the development of certain cancers.
  • It has an anti-inflammatory effect on fish oil.
Metabolism
  • enhances athletic performance.
  • reduces the absorption of cholesterol. Fish oil protects muscle fibers from toxic effects (catabolism).
  • prevents tired formation.
  • prevents the development of insulin resistance.
  • helps break down adipose tissue.
  • lowers triglyceride levels.
Musculoskeletal system
  •  reduces back pain.
  •  promotes bone formation.
  •  protects the muscles from the breakdown (catabolism).
  •  Fish oil is an option for the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica.
  •  relieves the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Nervous system
  • reduces aggression.
  • have a beneficial effect on the behavior of patients with hyperactivity.
  • prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • relieves depression.
  • has the potential for recovery after head injuries.
  •  improves learning ability.
  •  improves memory.
  •  relieves migraine symptoms.
  •  has the potential to relieve the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis.
  •  is commonly used in the development of Parkinson’s disease.
  •  is used for schizophrenia.
  •  may be suitable for recovery from spinal cord injuries.
  •  alleviates the toxic effects of mental stress.
Respiratory system
  • may be useful in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARSD).
  •  improves respiratory function in asthmatic patients
  • prevents chronic lung disease.
  • easily prevents the development of bronchitis.
  • prevents emphysema.
  • easily improves lung function and reduce the risk of damage from smoking.
Hormanal problems
  • easily relieves menstrual cramps.
  •  reduces the heat waves associated with menopause and relieve depression.
  •  reduces the risk of developing male infertility.
Skin
  • reduces acne sufferers.
  • relieves the symptoms of eczema.
  • relieves itchy skin.
  • improves skin elasticity.
  • easily prevents sunburn in sensitive people.
  • speeds up wound healing.
Resources
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