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Esposito D, Cruciani G, Zaccaro L, Di Carlo E, Spitoni GF, Manti F, Carducci C, Fiori E, Leuzzi V, Pascucci T. A Systematic Review on Autism and Hyperserotonemia: State-of-the-Art, Limitations, and Future Directions. Brain Sci 2024; 14:481. [PMID: 38790459 PMCID: PMC11119126 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hyperserotonemia is one of the most studied endophenotypes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but there are still no unequivocal results about its causes or biological and behavioral outcomes. This systematic review summarizes the studies investigating the relationship between blood serotonin (5-HT) levels and ASD, comparing diagnostic tools, analytical methods, and clinical outcomes. A literature search on peripheral 5-HT levels and ASD was conducted. In total, 1104 publications were screened, of which 113 entered the present systematic review. Of these, 59 articles reported hyperserotonemia in subjects with ASD, and 26 presented correlations between 5-HT levels and ASD-core clinical outcomes. The 5-HT levels are increased in about half, and correlations between hyperserotonemia and clinical outcomes are detected in a quarter of the studies. The present research highlights a large amount of heterogeneity in this field, ranging from the characterization of ASD and control groups to diagnostic and clinical assessments, from blood sampling procedures to analytical methods, allowing us to delineate critical topics for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Esposito
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.E.); (F.M.)
| | - Gianluca Cruciani
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (G.F.S.)
| | - Laura Zaccaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.Z.); (T.P.)
| | - Emanuele Di Carlo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Grazia Fernanda Spitoni
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy; (G.C.); (G.F.S.)
- Cognitive and Motor Rehabilitation and Neuroimaging Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306-354, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Manti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.E.); (F.M.)
| | - Claudia Carducci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Elena Fiori
- Rome Technopole Foundation, P.le Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Leuzzi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.E.); (F.M.)
| | - Tiziana Pascucci
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.Z.); (T.P.)
- Centro “Daniel Bovet”, Sapienza University, P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Via Ardeatina 306, 00179 Rome, Italy
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Anderson GM, Cook EH, Blakely RD, Sutcliffe JS, Veenstra-VanderWeele J. Long COVID-19 and Peripheral Serotonin: A Commentary and Reconsideration. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:2169-2172. [PMID: 38628604 PMCID: PMC11019386 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s456000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
We believe there are serious problems with a recently published and highly publicized paper entitled "Serotonin reduction in post-acute sequelae of viral infection." The blood centrifugation procedure reportedly used by Wong et al would produce plasma that is substantially (over 95%) depleted of platelets. Given this, their published mean plasma serotonin values of 1.2 uM and 2.4 uM for the control/contrast groups appear to be at least 30 to 60 times too high and should be disregarded. The plasma serotonin values reported for the long COVID and viremia patients also should be disregarded, as should any comparisons to the control/contrast groups. We also note that the plasma serotonin means for the two control/contrast groups are not in good agreement. In the "Discussion" section, Wong et al state that their results tend to support the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for the treatment of COVID-19, and they encourage further clinical trials of SSRIs. While they state that, "Our animal models demonstrate that serotonin levels can be restored and memory impairment reversed by precursor supplementation or SSRI treatment", it should be noted that no data are presented showing an increase or restoration in circulating serotonin with SSRI administration. In fact, one would expect a marked decline in platelet serotonin due to SSRIs' effective inhibition of the platelet serotonin transporter. Wong et al hypothesize that problems of long COVID arise from too little peripheral serotonin. However, given the frequent presence of a hyperaggregation state in long COVID, and the known augmenting effects of platelet serotonin on platelet aggregation, it is plausible to suggest that reductions in platelet serotonin might be associated with a lessening of the cardiovascular sequelae of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- George M Anderson
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Edwin H Cook
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Randy D Blakely
- FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - James S Sutcliffe
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Wegiel J, Chadman K, London E, Wisniewski T, Wegiel J. Contribution of the serotonergic system to developmental brain abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2024. [PMID: 38500252 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
This review highlights a key role of the serotonergic system in brain development and in distortions of normal brain development in early stages of fetal life resulting in cascades of abnormalities, including defects of neurogenesis, neuronal migration, neuronal growth, differentiation, and arborization, as well as defective neuronal circuit formation in the cortex, subcortical structures, brainstem, and cerebellum of autistic subjects. In autism, defects in regulation of neuronal growth are the most frequent and ubiquitous developmental changes associated with impaired neuron differentiation, smaller size, distorted shape, loss of spatial orientation, and distortion of cortex organization. Common developmental defects of the brain in autism include multiregional focal dysplastic changes contributing to local neuronal circuit distortion, epileptogenic activity, and epilepsy. There is a discrepancy between more than 500 reports demonstrating the contribution of the serotonergic system to autism's behavioral anomalies, highlighted by lack of studies of autistic subjects' brainstem raphe nuclei, the center of brain serotonergic innervation, and of the contribution of the serotonergic system to the diagnostic features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Discovery of severe fetal brainstem auditory system neuronal deficits and other anomalies leading to a spectrum of hearing deficits contributing to a cascade of behavioral alterations, including deficits of social and verbal communication in individuals with autism, is another argument to intensify postmortem studies of the type and topography of, and the severity of developmental defects in raphe nuclei and their contribution to abnormal brain development and to the broad spectrum of functional deficits and comorbid conditions in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarek Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
| | - Kathryn Chadman
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
| | - Eric London
- Department of Psychology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
| | - Thomas Wisniewski
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
- Center for Cognitive Neurology, Department of Neurology, Pathology and Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jerzy Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA
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Anderson GM, Ramsey CM, Lynch KG, Gelernter J, Oslin DW. Baseline platelet serotonin in a multi-site treatment study of depression in veterans administration patients: Distribution and effects of demographic variables and serotonin reuptake inhibitors. J Affect Disord 2023; 327:368-377. [PMID: 36754092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objectives of the study were: (1) to examine the overall distribution of baseline platelet serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) values in patients seeking treatment for depression and to define subgroups based on the apparent presence or absence of drug exposure; (2) to assess the bioeffect of 5-HT reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) at the platelet 5-HT transporter; and (3) to examine the relationships of demographic variables including population (ancestry), sex, age, and season of sampling to platelet 5-HT concentration. METHODS Platelet 5-HT levels were measured in a cross-sectional study of 1433 Veterans Administration (VA) patients participating in a pragmatic multi-site pharmacogenomic treatment study of depression. Patients were characterized medically and demographically using VA health records and self-report. RESULTS A clearly bimodal distribution was observed for platelet 5-HT levels with the lower mode associated with patients exposed to SRIs at baseline. Median transporter blockade bioeffects were similar across the various selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and 5-HT/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). In a subset of patients apparently not exposed to an SRI, significant effects of population and sex were observed with group mean platelet 5-HT levels being 25 % greater (p < 0.001) in African-American (AA) individuals compared to European-Americans (EAs). The female group mean was 14 % (p < 0.001) greater than male group mean. An effect of age was observed (r = -0.11, p < 0.001) and no effect of season or month of sampling was seen. CONCLUSIONS Further research is warranted to understand the bases and clinical implications of the population and sex differences. The apparent similarity in bioeffect at the 5-HT transporter across SSRIs and when comparing SSRIs and SNRIs informs discussions about initiating, dose adjustment and switching of 5-HT reuptake inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- George M Anderson
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, 230 S. Frontage Rd., New Haven, CT 06525, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 230 S. Frontage Rd., New Haven, CT 06525, USA.
| | - Christine M Ramsey
- Veterans Integrated Service Network 4, Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Yale Center for Medical Informatics, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Kevin G Lynch
- Veterans Integrated Service Network 4, Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joel Gelernter
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare Center, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - David W Oslin
- Veterans Integrated Service Network 4, Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Raghavan R, Anand NS, Wang G, Hong X, Pearson C, Zuckerman B, Xie H, Wang X. Association between cord blood metabolites in tryptophan pathway and childhood risk of autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:270. [PMID: 35810183 PMCID: PMC9271093 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01992-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations in tryptophan and serotonin have been implicated in various mental disorders; but studies are limited on child neurodevelopmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This prospective cohort study examined the associations between levels of tryptophan and select metabolites (5-methoxytryptophol (5-MTX), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), serotonin, N-acetyltrytophan) in cord plasma (collected at birth) and physician-diagnosed ASD, ADHD and other developmental disabilities (DD) in childhood. The study sample (n = 996) derived from the Boston Birth Cohort, which included 326 neurotypical children, 87 ASD, 269 ADHD, and 314 other DD children (mutually exclusive). These participants were enrolled at birth and followed-up prospectively (from October 1, 1998 to June 30, 2018) at the Boston Medical Center. Higher levels of cord 5-MTX was associated with a lower risk of ASD (aOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.77) and ADHD (aOR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.65, 0.96) per Z-score increase, after adjusting for potential confounders. Similarly, children with cord 5-MTX ≥ 25th percentile (vs. <25th percentile) had a reduction in ASD (aOR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.49) and ADHD risks (aOR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.70). In contrast, higher levels of cord tryptophan, 5-HTP and N-acetyltryptophan were associated with higher risk of ADHD, with aOR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.51; aOR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.61; and aOR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.53, respectively, but not with ASD and other DD. Cord serotonin was not associated with ASD, ADHD, and other DD. Most findings remained statistically significant in the sensitivity and subgroup analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkripa Raghavan
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Neha S. Anand
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Guoying Wang
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Xiumei Hong
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Colleen Pearson
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Barry Zuckerman
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA USA
| | - Hehuang Xie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences & Pathobiology, Fralin Life Sciences Institute at Virginia Technology, Blacksburg, VA USA
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Zuniga-Kennedy M, Davoren M, Shuffrey LC, Luna RA, Savidge T, Prasad V, Anderson GM, Veenstra-VanderWeele J, Williams KC. Intestinal Predictors of Whole Blood Serotonin Levels in Children With or Without Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:3780-3789. [PMID: 35726077 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05597-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hyperserotonemia, or elevated levels of whole blood serotonin (WB5-HT), was the first biomarker linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Despite numerous studies investigating the etiology of hyperserotonemia, results have been inconsistent. Recent findings suggest a relationship between the immune system and hyperserotonemia. The current study investigated whether intestinal 5-HT levels, 5-HT gene expression, or intestinal cell types predict WB5-HT. Participants included thirty-one males aged 3-18 who were classified into one of three groups: ASD and functional GI issues, typically developing with GI issues, and typically developing without GI issues. Samples from a lower endoscopy were analyzed to examine the pathways in predicting WB-5HT. Results demonstrated an association between T-Lymphocytes and WB5-HT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Zuniga-Kennedy
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY, 10605, USA
| | - Micah Davoren
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY, 10605, USA
| | - Lauren C Shuffrey
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY, 10032, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Ruth Ann Luna
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology, Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital, 1102 Bates Avenue, Suite 955, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Tor Savidge
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology, Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital, 1102 Bates Avenue, Suite 955, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Vinay Prasad
- Division of Pathology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - George M Anderson
- Departments of Child Psychiatry and Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10032, USA. .,Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains, NY, 10605, USA. .,, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY, 10025, USA.
| | - Kent C Williams
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 555 S 18th Street, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
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McPartland JC, Lerner MD, Bhat A, Clarkson T, Jack A, Koohsari S, Matuskey D, McQuaid GA, Su WC, Trevisan DA. Looking Back at the Next 40 Years of ASD Neuroscience Research. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:4333-4353. [PMID: 34043128 PMCID: PMC8542594 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
During the last 40 years, neuroscience has become one of the most central and most productive approaches to investigating autism. In this commentary, we assemble a group of established investigators and trainees to review key advances and anticipated developments in neuroscience research across five modalities most commonly employed in autism research: magnetic resonance imaging, functional near infrared spectroscopy, positron emission tomography, electroencephalography, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Broadly, neuroscience research has provided important insights into brain systems involved in autism but not yet mechanistic understanding. Methodological advancements are expected to proffer deeper understanding of neural circuitry associated with function and dysfunction during the next 40 years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew D Lerner
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Anjana Bhat
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Tessa Clarkson
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Allison Jack
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Sheida Koohsari
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - David Matuskey
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Goldie A McQuaid
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Wan-Chun Su
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
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Farmer CA, Thurm AE, Honnekeri B, Kim P, Swedo SE, Han JC. The contribution of platelets to peripheral BDNF elevation in children with autism spectrum disorder. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18158. [PMID: 34518555 PMCID: PMC8438074 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97367-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a key peptide in neurocognitive development, has been reported to be elevated in the serum of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In a few studies, however, no differences or the converse have been documented. As a secondary analysis of a natural history study, we examined differences in ELISA serum BDNF between a group of children aged 1 to 9 years (69% white) with ASD (n = 94) and those with typical development (n = 52) or non-ASD developmental delay (n = 21), while accounting for the potential confounding effects of platelet quantity. Platelet counts were measured within 4 h of blood draw using an automated cell counter. Taqman single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) assays were used to genotype 11 SNPs within the BDNF locus. Unadjusted mean BDNF concentration was higher in children with ASD than in children with typical development (standardized mean difference = 0.23; 95% CI 0.07, 0.38), but not children with non-ASD developmental delay. The magnitude of this difference was reduced after adjusting for platelet count (standardized mean difference = 0.18; 95% CI 0.02, 0.33). Although some BDNF SNPs were related to BDNF concentration, the distributions of these genotypes did not differ across diagnostic groups. This study replicates previous work suggesting that average serum BDNF concentration is higher in ASD compared to typical development, and extends that work by highlighting the potentially confounding role of platelet counts. The etiology of platelet count differences warrants further elucidation. Nonetheless, our results suggest that elevation in BDNF may be partially explained by higher platelet counts in children with ASD, an association that should be considered in future analysis and interpretation.Registration: NCT00298246.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristan A Farmer
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Audrey E Thurm
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bianca Honnekeri
- Grant Government Medical College and Sir J.J. Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, 400008, India
- Clinical Electives Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Paul Kim
- Human Brain Collection Core, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Susan E Swedo
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Joan C Han
- Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
- Unit on Metabolism and Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Albumin is a secret factor involved in multidirectional interactions among the serotoninergic, immune and endocrine systems that supervises the mechanism of CYP1A and CYP3A regulation in the liver. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 215:107616. [PMID: 32590025 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on albumin, which is involved in multidirectional interactions among the immune, endocrine and serotoninergic systems and supervises the regulation of cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms under conditions of both normal liver function and liver insufficiency. Special attention is paid to albumin, thyroid hormones, testosterone and tryptophan hydroxylase in these interactions as well as their potential roles in liver regeneration. The association of these factors with inflammation and the modification of the mechanism of hepatic drug-metabolizing CYP isoform regulation are also presented because changes in the expression of CYP isoforms in the liver may result in subsequent changes to a marker substance used for testing CYP activity, thus providing a simple way to control the liver regeneration process or the dangerous stimulation of hepatocarcinogenesis.
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The early overgrowth theory of autism spectrum disorder: Insight into convergent mechanisms from valproic acid exposure and translational models. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020. [PMID: 32711813 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The development of new approaches for the clinical management of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can only be realized through a better understanding of the neurobiological changes associated with ASD. One strategy for gaining deeper insight into the neurobiological mechanisms associated with ASD is to identify converging pathogenic processes associated with human idiopathic clinicopathology that are conserved in translational models of ASD. In this chapter, we first present the early overgrowth theory of ASD. Second, we introduce valproic acid (VPA), one of the most robust and well-known environmental risk factors associated with ASD, and we summarize the rapidly growing body of animal research literature using VPA as an ASD translational model. Lastly, we will detail the mechanisms of action of VPA and its impact on functional neural systems, as well as discuss future research directions that could have a lasting impact on the field.
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Marotta R, Risoleo MC, Messina G, Parisi L, Carotenuto M, Vetri L, Roccella M. The Neurochemistry of Autism. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E163. [PMID: 32182969 PMCID: PMC7139720 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to complex neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior or interests, and altered sensory processing. Environmental, immunological, genetic, and epigenetic factors are implicated in the pathophysiology of autism and provoke the occurrence of neuroanatomical and neurochemical events relatively early in the development of the central nervous system. Many neurochemical pathways are involved in determining ASD; however, how these complex networks interact and cause the onset of the core symptoms of autism remains unclear. Further studies on neurochemical alterations in autism are necessary to clarify the early neurodevelopmental variations behind the enormous heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorder, and therefore lead to new approaches for the treatment and prevention of autism. In this review, we aim to delineate the state-of-the-art main research findings about the neurochemical alterations in autism etiology, and focuses on gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, serotonin, dopamine, N-acetyl aspartate, oxytocin and arginine-vasopressin, melatonin, vitamin D, orexin, endogenous opioids, and acetylcholine. We also aim to suggest a possible related therapeutic approach that could improve the quality of ASD interventions. Over one hundred references were collected through electronic database searching in Medline and EMBASE (Ovid), Scopus (Elsevier), ERIC (Proquest), PubMed, and the Web of Science (ISI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Marotta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro 88100, Italy; (R.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Maria C. Risoleo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro 88100, Italy; (R.M.); (M.C.R.)
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli 80138, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia 71100, Italy;
| | - Lucia Parisi
- Department of Psychology, Educational and Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy; (L.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Marco Carotenuto
- Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Mental Health, Physical and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli 80138, Italy;
| | - Luigi Vetri
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Michele Roccella
- Department of Psychology, Educational and Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo 90128, Italy; (L.P.); (M.R.)
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12
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Gillera SEA, Marinello WP, Horman BM, Phillips AL, Ruis MT, Stapleton HM, Reif DM, Patisaul HB. Sex-specific effects of perinatal FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) exposure on socioemotional behavior in prairie voles. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2019; 79:106840. [PMID: 31730801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2019.106840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly rising incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders with social deficits is raising concern that developmental exposure to environmental contaminants may be contributory. Firemaster 550 (FM 550) is one of the most prevalent flame-retardant (FR) mixtures used in foam-based furniture and baby products and contains both brominated and organophosphate components. We and others have published evidence of developmental neurotoxicity and sex specific effects of FM 550 on anxiety-like and exploratory behaviors. Using a prosocial animal model, we investigated the impact of perinatal FM 550 exposure on a range of socioemotional behaviors including anxiety, attachment, and memory. Virtually unknown to toxicologists, but widely used in the behavioral neurosciences, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) is a uniquely valuable model organism for examining environmental factors on sociality because this species is spontaneously prosocial, biparental, and displays attachment behaviors including pair bonding. Dams were exposed to 0, 500, 1000, or 2000 μg of FM 550 via subcutaneous (sc) injections throughout gestation, and pups were directly exposed beginning the day after birth until weaning. Adult offspring of both sexes were then subjected to multiple tasks including open field, novel object recognition, and partner preference. Effects were dose responsive and sex-specific, with females more greatly affected. Exposure-related outcomes in females included elevated anxiety, decreased social interaction, decreased exploratory motivation, and aversion to novelty. Exposed males also had social deficits, with males in all three dose groups failing to show a partner preference. Our studies demonstrate the utility of the prairie vole for investigating the impact of chemical exposures on social behavior and support the hypothesis that developmental FR exposure impacts the social brain. Future studies will probe the possible mechanisms by which these effects arise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Matthew T Ruis
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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13
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Padmakumar M, Van Raes E, Van Geet C, Freson K. Blood platelet research in autism spectrum disorders: In search of biomarkers. Res Pract Thromb Haemost 2019; 3:566-577. [PMID: 31624776 PMCID: PMC6781926 DOI: 10.1002/rth2.12239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a clinically heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that is caused by gene-environment interactions. To improve its diagnosis and treatment, numerous efforts have been undertaken to identify reliable biomarkers for autism. None of them have delivered the holy grail that represents a reproducible, quantifiable, and sensitive biomarker. Though blood platelets are mainly known to prevent bleeding, they also play pivotal roles in cancer, inflammation, and neurological disorders. Platelets could serve as a peripheral biomarker or cellular model for autism as they share common biological and molecular characteristics with neurons. In particular, platelet-dense granules contain neurotransmitters such as serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid. Molecular players controlling granule formation and secretion are similarly regulated in platelets and neurons. The major platelet integrin receptor αIIbβ3 has recently been linked to ASD as a regulator of serotonin transport. Though many studies revealed associations between platelet markers and ASD, there is an important knowledge gap in linking these markers with autism and explaining the altered platelet phenotypes detected in autism patients. The present review enumerates studies of different biomarkers detected in ASD using platelets and highlights the future needs to bring this research to the next level and advance our understanding of this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Padmakumar
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Eveline Van Raes
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Chris Van Geet
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Kathleen Freson
- Department of Cardiovascular SciencesCenter for Molecular and Vascular BiologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
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14
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Bridgemohan C, Cochran DM, Howe YJ, Pawlowski K, Zimmerman AW, Anderson GM, Choueiri R, Sices L, Miller KJ, Ultmann M, Helt J, Forbes PW, Farfel L, Brewster SJ, Frazier JA, Neumeyer AM. Investigating Potential Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Integr Neurosci 2019; 13:31. [PMID: 31427932 PMCID: PMC6687766 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2019.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Early identification and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) improves outcomes, but specific evidence needed to individualize treatment recommendations is lacking. Biomarkers that could be routinely measured within the clinical setting could potentially transform clinical care for patients with ASD. This demonstration project employed collection of biomarker data during regular autism specialty clinical visits and explored the relationship of biomarkers with clinical ASD symptoms. Methods Eighty-three children with ASD, aged 5–10 years, completed a multi-site feasibility study integrating the collection of biochemical (blood serotonin, urine melatonin sulfate excretion) and clinical (head circumference, dysmorphology exam, digit ratio, cognitive and behavioral function) biomarkers during routine ASD clinic visits. Parents completed a demographic survey and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community. Cognitive function was determined by record review. Data analysis utilized Wilcoxon two-sample tests and Spearman correlations. Results Participants were 82% male, 63% White, 19% Hispanic, with a broad range of functioning. Group means indicated hyperserotonemia. In a single regression analysis adjusting for race and median household income, higher income was associated with higher levels of blood serotonin and urine melatonin sulfate excretion levels (p = 0.004 and p = 0.04, respectively). Melatonin correlated negatively with age (p = 0.048) and reported neurologic problems (p = 0.02). Dysmorphic status correlated with higher reported stereotyped behavior (p = 0.02) and inappropriate speech (p = 0.04). Conclusion This demonstration project employed collection of multiple biomarkers, allowed for examination of associations between biochemical and clinical measures, and identified several findings that suggest direction for future studies. This clinical research model has promise for integrative biomarker research in individuals with complex, heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Bridgemohan
- Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David M Cochran
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Yamini J Howe
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, United States
| | | | - Andrew W Zimmerman
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - George M Anderson
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Roula Choueiri
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Laura Sices
- Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Karen J Miller
- Center for Children with Special Needs, Floating Children's Hospital at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Monica Ultmann
- Center for Children with Special Needs, Floating Children's Hospital at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jessica Helt
- Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, United States
| | | | - Laura Farfel
- Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Center for Children with Special Needs, Floating Children's Hospital at Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Autism Consortium at Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Jean A Frazier
- University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States.,Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Ann M Neumeyer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, United States
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15
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Cai Y, Wang L, Nalvarte I, Xiao R, Li X, Fan X. Citalopram attenuates social behavior deficits in the BTBR T +Itpr3 tf/J mouse model of autism. Brain Res Bull 2019; 150:75-85. [PMID: 31047973 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed by two core symptoms: impaired social communication and the presence of repetitive, stereotyped behaviors and/or restricted interests. Alterations in serotonergic signaling are involved in the genesis of ASD. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been reported to reduce repetitive behaviors and rescue social deficits in ASD mouse models and patients. In the present study, we examined the potential of citalopram (a representative selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) on sociability and repetitive behaviors in the BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mouse model of ASD. We found that the deficits of sociability in the BTBR mice were reversed by a 20 mg/kg dose of citalopram treatment without any adverse effects on locomotor activity or anxiety level. In addition, both high (20 mg/kg) and low (10 mg/kg) doses decreased the repetitive behavior of marble burying but did not affect self-grooming behavior. Furthermore, both doses were shown to have antidepressant-like activity in both the B6 and the BTBR mice in the tail suspension test. Taken together, these findings further demonstrate that citalopram can alleviate behavioral abnormalities in the BTBR autism model and lend support to the hypothesis that SSRIs may be potential therapeutic drugs for the treatment of behavioral dysfunctions in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulong Cai
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lian Wang
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ivan Nalvarte
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet Hälsovägen 7C, Neo, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Rui Xiao
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaotang Fan
- Department of Developmental Neuropsychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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16
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Israelyan N, Margolis KG. Reprint of: Serotonin as a link between the gut-brain-microbiome axis in autism spectrum disorders. Pharmacol Res 2019; 140:115-120. [PMID: 30658882 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism-spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and repetitive patterns of behavior. ASD is, however, often associated with medical comorbidities and gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction is among the most common. Studies have demonstrated a correlation between GI dysfunction and the degree of social impairment in ASD. The etiology of GI abnormalities in ASD is unclear, though the association between GI dysfunction and ASD-associated behaviors suggest that overlapping developmental defects in the brain and the intestine and/or a defect in communication between the enteric and central nervous systems (ENS and CNS, respectively), known as the gut-brain axis, could be responsible for the observed phenotypes. Brain-gut abnormalities have been increasingly implicated in several disease processes, including ASD. As a critical modulator of ENS and CNS development and function, serotonin may be a nexus for the gut-brain axis in ASD. This paper reviews the role of serotonin in ASD from the perspective of the ENS. A murine model that has been demonstrated to possess brain, behavioral and GI abnormalities mimicking those seen in ASD harbors the most common serotonin transporter (SERT) based mutation (SERT Ala56) found in children with ASD. Discussion of the gut-brain manifestations in the SERT Ala56 mice, and their correction with developmental administration of a 5-HT4 agonist, are also addressed in conjunction with other future directions for diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narek Israelyan
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 630 W 168(th) St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Kara Gross Margolis
- Department of Pediatrics, Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, 620 W 168(th) St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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17
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Montgomery AK, Shuffrey LC, Guter SJ, Anderson GM, Jacob S, Mosconi MW, Sweeney JA, Turner JB, Sutcliffe JS, Cook EH, Veenstra-VanderWeele J. Maternal Serotonin Levels Are Associated With Cognitive Ability and Core Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2018; 57:867-875. [PMID: 30392628 PMCID: PMC6531860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2018.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [HT]) system has long been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Whole-blood 5-HT level (WB5-HT) is a stable, heritable biomarker that is elevated in more than 25% of children with ASD. Recent findings indicate that the maternal 5-HT system may influence embryonic neurodevelopment, but maternal WB5-HT has not been examined in relation to ASD phenotypes. METHOD WB5-HT levels were obtained from 181 individuals (3-27 years of age) diagnosed with ASD, 99 of their fathers, and 119 of their mothers. Standardized assessments were used to evaluate cognitive, behavioral, and language phenotypes. RESULTS Exploratory regression analyses found relationships between maternal WB5-HT and nonverbal IQ (NVIQ), Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) Nonverbal Communication Algorithm scores, and overall adaptive function on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-II. Latent class analysis identified a three-class structure in the assessment data, describing children with low, intermediate, and high severity across measures of behavior, cognition, and adaptive function. Mean maternal WB5-HT differed across classes, with the lowest maternal WB5-HT levels seen in the highest-severity group (Welch F2,46.048 = 17.394, p < .001). Paternal and proband WB5-HT did not differ between classes. CONCLUSION Maternal WB5-HT is associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring with ASD. Prospective, longitudinal studies will be needed to better understand the relationship between the function of the maternal serotonin system during pregnancy and brain development. Further studies in animal models may be able to reveal the mechanisms underlying these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia K. Montgomery
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY; Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, White Plains, NY
| | - Lauren C. Shuffrey
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, and the Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, White Plains, NY. They are also with the Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology; Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Stephen J. Guter
- Institute for Juvenile Research at the University of Illinois at Chicago, IL
| | | | | | - Matthew W. Mosconi
- Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training, Overland Park. He is also with the Clinical Child Psychology Program and Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies at the University of Kansas, Lawrence
| | | | - J. Blake Turner
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY
| | | | - Edwin H. Cook
- Institute for Juvenile Research at the University of Illinois at Chicago, IL
| | - Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, and the Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, White Plains, NY. They are also with the Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology; Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY.
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18
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Israelyan N, Margolis KG. Serotonin as a link between the gut-brain-microbiome axis in autism spectrum disorders. Pharmacol Res 2018; 132:1-6. [PMID: 29614380 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Autism-spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and repetitive patterns of behavior. ASD is, however, often associated with medical comorbidities and gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction is among the most common. Studies have demonstrated a correlation between GI dysfunction and the degree of social impairment in ASD. The etiology of GI abnormalities in ASD is unclear, though the association between GI dysfunction and ASD-associated behaviors suggest that overlapping developmental defects in the brain and the intestine and/or a defect in communication between the enteric and central nervous systems (ENS and CNS, respectively), known as the gut-brain axis, could be responsible for the observed phenotypes. Brain-gut abnormalities have been increasingly implicated in several disease processes, including ASD. As a critical modulator of ENS and CNS development and function, serotonin may be a nexus for the gut-brain axis in ASD. This paper reviews the role of serotonin in ASD from the perspective of the ENS. A murine model that has been demonstrated to possess brain, behavioral and GI abnormalities mimicking those seen in ASD harbors the most common serotonin transporter (SERT) based mutation (SERT Ala56) found in children with ASD. Discussion of the gut-brain manifestations in the SERT Ala56 mice, and their correction with developmental administration of a 5-HT4 agonist, are also addressed in conjunction with other future directions for diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narek Israelyan
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, 630 W 168(th) St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Kara Gross Margolis
- Department of Pediatrics, Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, 620 W 168(th) St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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19
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Pellerin D, Lortie A, Corbin F. Platelets as a surrogate disease model of neurodevelopmental disorders: Insights from Fragile X Syndrome. Platelets 2017; 29:113-124. [PMID: 28660769 DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2017.1317733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability and the leading monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Despite a large number of therapeutics developed in past years, there is currently no targeted treatment approved for FXS. In fact, translation of the positive and very promising preclinical findings from animal models to human subjects has so far fallen short owing in part to the low predictive validity of the Fmr1 ko mouse, an overly simplistic model of the complex human disease. This issue stresses the critical need to identify new surrogate human peripheral cell models of FXS, which may in fact allow for the identification of novel and more efficient therapies. Of all described models, blood platelets appear to be one of the most promising and appropriate disease models of FXS, in part owing to their close biochemical similarities with neurons. Noteworthy, they also recapitulate some of FXS neuron's core molecular dysregulations, such as hyperactivity of the MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways, elevated enzymatic activity of MMP9 and decreased production of cAMP. Platelets might therefore help furthering our understanding of FXS pathophysiology and might also lead to the identification of disease-specific biomarkers, as was shown in several psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, there is additional evidence suggesting that platelet signaling may assist with prediction of cognitive phenotype and could represent a potent readout of drug efficacy in clinical trials. Globally, given the neurobiological overlap between different forms of intellectual disability, platelets may be a valuable window to access the molecular underpinnings of ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) sharing similar synaptic plasticity defects with FXS. Platelets are indeed an attractive model for unraveling pathophysiological mechanisms involved in NDD as well as to search for diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Pellerin
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , QC , Canada.,b Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine , McGill University , Montreal , QC , Canada
| | - Audrey Lortie
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , QC , Canada
| | - François Corbin
- a Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Université de Sherbrooke , Sherbrooke , QC , Canada
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20
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Loth E, Charman T, Mason L, Tillmann J, Jones EJH, Wooldridge C, Ahmad J, Auyeung B, Brogna C, Ambrosino S, Banaschewski T, Baron-Cohen S, Baumeister S, Beckmann C, Brammer M, Brandeis D, Bölte S, Bourgeron T, Bours C, de Bruijn Y, Chakrabarti B, Crawley D, Cornelissen I, Acqua FD, Dumas G, Durston S, Ecker C, Faulkner J, Frouin V, Garces P, Goyard D, Hayward H, Ham LM, Hipp J, Holt RJ, Johnson MH, Isaksson J, Kundu P, Lai MC, D’ardhuy XL, Lombardo MV, Lythgoe DJ, Mandl R, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Moessnang C, Mueller N, O’Dwyer L, Oldehinkel M, Oranje B, Pandina G, Persico AM, Ruigrok ANV, Ruggeri B, Sabet J, Sacco R, Cáceres ASJ, Simonoff E, Toro R, Tost H, Waldman J, Williams SCR, Zwiers MP, Spooren W, Murphy DGM, Buitelaar JK. The EU-AIMS Longitudinal European Autism Project (LEAP): design and methodologies to identify and validate stratification biomarkers for autism spectrum disorders. Mol Autism 2017; 8:24. [PMID: 28649312 PMCID: PMC5481887 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0146-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tremendous clinical and aetiological diversity among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been a major obstacle to the development of new treatments, as many may only be effective in particular subgroups. Precision medicine approaches aim to overcome this challenge by combining pathophysiologically based treatments with stratification biomarkers that predict which treatment may be most beneficial for particular individuals. However, so far, we have no single validated stratification biomarker for ASD. This may be due to the fact that most research studies primarily have focused on the identification of mean case-control differences, rather than within-group variability, and included small samples that were underpowered for stratification approaches. The EU-AIMS Longitudinal European Autism Project (LEAP) is to date the largest multi-centre, multi-disciplinary observational study worldwide that aims to identify and validate stratification biomarkers for ASD. METHODS LEAP includes 437 children and adults with ASD and 300 individuals with typical development or mild intellectual disability. Using an accelerated longitudinal design, each participant is comprehensively characterised in terms of clinical symptoms, comorbidities, functional outcomes, neurocognitive profile, brain structure and function, biochemical markers and genomics. In addition, 51 twin-pairs (of which 36 had one sibling with ASD) are included to identify genetic and environmental factors in phenotypic variability. RESULTS Here, we describe the demographic characteristics of the cohort, planned analytic stratification approaches, criteria and steps to validate candidate stratification markers, pre-registration procedures to increase transparency, standardisation and data robustness across all analyses, and share some 'lessons learnt'. A clinical characterisation of the cohort is given in the companion paper (Charman et al., accepted). CONCLUSION We expect that LEAP will enable us to confirm, reject and refine current hypotheses of neurocognitive/neurobiological abnormalities, identify biologically and clinically meaningful ASD subgroups, and help us map phenotypic heterogeneity to different aetiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Loth
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Tony Charman
- Clinical Child Psychology, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Luke Mason
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, Henry Wellcome Building, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX UK
| | - Julian Tillmann
- Clinical Child Psychology, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Emily J. H. Jones
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, Henry Wellcome Building, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX UK
| | - Caroline Wooldridge
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Jumana Ahmad
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Bonnie Auyeung
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
- Department of Psychology, The School of Philosophy, Psychology, and Language Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Dugald Stewart Building, 3 Charles Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9AD UK
| | - Claudia Brogna
- University Campus Bio-Medico, via Álvaro del Portillo, 21, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Ambrosino
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Sarah Baumeister
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian Beckmann
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Brammer
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Daniel Brandeis
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zürich, Neumünsterallee 9, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sven Bölte
- Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders at Karolinska Institutet (KIND), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Bourgeron
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit, Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue du Docteur Roux, Paris, Cedex 15 France
| | - Carsten Bours
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yvette de Bruijn
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bhismadev Chakrabarti
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
- Centre for Autism, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AL UK
| | - Daisy Crawley
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Ineke Cornelissen
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Flavio Dell’ Acqua
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Guillaume Dumas
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit, Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue du Docteur Roux, Paris, Cedex 15 France
| | - Sarah Durston
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christine Ecker
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Goethe University, Deutschordenstrasse 50, 60528 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jessica Faulkner
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Vincent Frouin
- Neurospin Centre CEA, Saclay, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Pilar Garces
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Grenzacherstrasse 124, B.001 N.667, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - David Goyard
- Neurospin Centre CEA, Saclay, 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - Hannah Hayward
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Lindsay M. Ham
- Regulatory Affairs, Product Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Pharmaceuticals, Grenzacherstrasse 124, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Joerg Hipp
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Grenzacherstrasse 124, B.001 N.667, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rosemary J. Holt
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Mark H. Johnson
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, Henry Wellcome Building, Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HX UK
| | - Johan Isaksson
- Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders at Karolinska Institutet (KIND), Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Prantik Kundu
- Department of Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
- Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 80, Workman Way, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4 Canada
| | - Xavier Liogier D’ardhuy
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Grenzacherstrasse 124, B.001 N.667, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael V. Lombardo
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
- Center for Applied Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, PO Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - David J. Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - René Mandl
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carolin Moessnang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nico Mueller
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Laurence O’Dwyer
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne Oldehinkel
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bob Oranje
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Universiteitsweg 100, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gahan Pandina
- Janssen Research & Development, 1125 Trenton Harbourton Road, Titusville, NJ 08560 USA
| | - Antonio M. Persico
- University Campus Bio-Medico, via Álvaro del Portillo, 21, Rome, Italy
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Gaetano Martino University Hospital, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, I-98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Amber N. V. Ruigrok
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Barbara Ruggeri
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London, UK
| | - Jessica Sabet
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Roberto Sacco
- University Campus Bio-Medico, via Álvaro del Portillo, 21, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonia San José Cáceres
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Roberto Toro
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit, Institut Pasteur, 25 Rue du Docteur Roux, Paris, Cedex 15 France
| | - Heike Tost
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jack Waldman
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Steve C. R. Williams
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Marcel P. Zwiers
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Will Spooren
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Grenzacherstrasse 124, B.001 N.667, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Declan G. M. Murphy
- Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Jan K. Buitelaar
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Kapittelweg 29, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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21
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Shuffrey LC, Guter SJ, Delaney S, Jacob S, Anderson GM, Sutcliffe JS, Cook EH, Veenstra-VanderWeele J. Is there sexual dimorphism of hyperserotonemia in autism spectrum disorder? Autism Res 2017; 10:1417-1423. [PMID: 28401654 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 30% of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have elevated whole blood serotonin (5-HT) levels. Genetic linkage and association studies of ASD and of whole blood 5-HT levels as a quantitative trait have revealed sexual dimorphism. Few studies have examined the presence of a sex difference on hyperserotonemia within ASD. To assess whether the rate of hyperserotonemia is different in males than in females with ASD, we measured whole blood 5-HT levels in 292 children and adolescents with ASD, the largest sample in which this biomarker has been assessed. Based upon previous work suggesting that hyperserotonemia is more common prior to puberty, we focused our analysis on the 182 pre-pubertal children with ASD. 42% of pre-pubertal participants were within the hyperserotonemia range. In this population, we found that males were significantly more likely to manifest hyperserotonemia than females (P = 0.03). As expected, no significant difference was found in the post-pubertal population. Additional work will be needed to replicate this intriguing finding and to understand whether it could potentially explain differences in patterns of ASD risk between males and females. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1417-1423. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Shuffrey
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York.,New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York.,Teachers College, Columbia University, New York
| | - Stephen J Guter
- Institute for Juvenile Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago
| | - Shannon Delaney
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York
| | - Suma Jacob
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | - James S Sutcliffe
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
| | - Edwin H Cook
- Institute for Juvenile Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago
| | - Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York.,New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York
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22
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Chen R, Davis LK, Guter S, Wei Q, Jacob S, Potter MH, Cox NJ, Cook EH, Sutcliffe JS, Li B. Leveraging blood serotonin as an endophenotype to identify de novo and rare variants involved in autism. Mol Autism 2017; 8:14. [PMID: 28344757 PMCID: PMC5361831 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0130-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most highly heritable neuropsychiatric disorders, but underlying molecular mechanisms are still unresolved due to extreme locus heterogeneity. Leveraging meaningful endophenotypes or biomarkers may be an effective strategy to reduce heterogeneity to identify novel ASD genes. Numerous lines of evidence suggest a link between hyperserotonemia, i.e., elevated serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) in whole blood, and ASD. However, the genetic determinants of blood 5-HT level and their relationship to ASD are largely unknown. METHODS In this study, pursuing the hypothesis that de novo variants (DNVs) and rare risk alleles acting in a recessive mode may play an important role in predisposition of hyperserotonemia in people with ASD, we carried out whole exome sequencing (WES) in 116 ASD parent-proband trios with most (107) probands having 5-HT measurements. RESULTS Combined with published ASD DNVs, we identified USP15 as having recurrent de novo loss of function mutations and discovered evidence supporting two other known genes with recurrent DNVs (FOXP1 and KDM5B). Genes harboring functional DNVs significantly overlap with functional/disease gene sets known to be involved in ASD etiology, including FMRP targets and synaptic formation and transcriptional regulation genes. We grouped the probands into High-5HT and Normal-5HT groups based on normalized serotonin levels, and used network-based gene set enrichment analysis (NGSEA) to identify novel hyperserotonemia-related ASD genes based on LoF and missense DNVs. We found enrichment in the High-5HT group for a gene network module (DAWN-1) previously implicated in ASD, and this points to the TGF-β pathway and cell junction processes. Through analysis of rare recessively acting variants (RAVs), we also found that rare compound heterozygotes (CHs) in the High-5HT group were enriched for loci in an ASD-associated gene set. Finally, we carried out rare variant group-wise transmission disequilibrium tests (gTDT) and observed significant association of rare variants in genes encoding a subset of the serotonin pathway with ASD. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified USP15 as a novel gene implicated in ASD based on recurrent DNVs. It also demonstrates the potential value of 5-HT as an effective endophenotype for gene discovery in ASD, and the effectiveness of this strategy needs to be further explored in studies of larger sample sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Chen
- Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Lea K Davis
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Stephen Guter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Qiang Wei
- Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Suma Jacob
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN USA
| | - Melissa H Potter
- Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Nancy J Cox
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Edwin H Cook
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - James S Sutcliffe
- Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
| | - Bingshan Li
- Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA.,Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN USA
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23
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Brief Report: Whole Blood Serotonin Levels and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:1124-30. [PMID: 26527110 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2646-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Elevated whole blood serotonin levels are observed in more than 25% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Co-occurring gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are also common in ASD but have not previously been examined in relationship with hyperserotonemia, despite the synthesis of serotonin in the gut. In 82 children and adolescents with ASD, we observed a correlation between a quantitative measure of lower GI symptoms and whole blood serotonin levels. No significant association was seen between functional constipation diagnosis and serotonin levels in the hyperserotonemia range, suggesting that this correlation is not driven by a single subgroup. More specific assessment of gut function, including the microbiome, will be necessary to evaluate the contribution of gut physiology to serotonin levels in ASD.
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24
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Muller CL, Anacker AMJ, Veenstra-VanderWeele J. The serotonin system in autism spectrum disorder: From biomarker to animal models. Neuroscience 2016; 321:24-41. [PMID: 26577932 PMCID: PMC4824539 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Elevated whole blood serotonin, or hyperserotonemia, was the first biomarker identified in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is present in more than 25% of affected children. The serotonin system is a logical candidate for involvement in ASD due to its pleiotropic role across multiple brain systems both dynamically and across development. Tantalizing clues connect this peripheral biomarker with changes in brain and behavior in ASD, but the contribution of the serotonin system to ASD pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. Studies of whole blood serotonin levels in ASD and in a large founder population indicate greater heritability than for the disorder itself and suggest an association with recurrence risk. Emerging data from both neuroimaging and postmortem samples also indicate changes in the brain serotonin system in ASD. Genetic linkage and association studies of both whole blood serotonin levels and of ASD risk point to the chromosomal region containing the serotonin transporter (SERT) gene in males but not in females. In ASD families with evidence of linkage to this region, multiple rare SERT amino acid variants lead to a convergent increase in serotonin uptake in cell models. A knock-in mouse model of one of these variants, SERT Gly56Ala, recapitulates the hyperserotonemia biomarker and shows increased brain serotonin clearance, increased serotonin receptor sensitivity, and altered social, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Data from other rodent models also suggest an important role for the serotonin system in social behavior, in cognitive flexibility, and in sensory development. Recent work indicates that reciprocal interactions between serotonin and other systems, such as oxytocin, may be particularly important for social behavior. Collectively, these data point to the serotonin system as a prime candidate for treatment development in a subgroup of children defined by a robust, heritable biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Muller
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, 465 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - A M J Anacker
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - J Veenstra-VanderWeele
- Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University; Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York Presbyterian Hospital; New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, Mail Unit 78, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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25
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Anderson GM, Cook EH. Commentary on "Platelet Studies in Autism Spectrum Disorder Patients and First-Degree Relatives". Mol Autism 2016; 7:20. [PMID: 27030804 PMCID: PMC4812610 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-016-0086-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We comment on the recent report entitled "Platelet Studies in Autism Spectrum Disorder Patients and First-Degree Relatives" [Molecular Autism 2015;6:57]. We find it commendable that the authors have investigated platelet factors potentially involved in the well-replicated observation of platelet hyperserotonemia in autism. However, we believe the results need a fuller discussion in the context of prior studies, think that certain aspects of the interpretation need to be reassessed, and attempt to provide a framework for further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- George M Anderson
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, 230 South Frontage Rd., 06519 New Haven, CT USA ; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Edwin H Cook
- Institute for Juvenile Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
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26
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Abstract
Network perspectives, in their emphasis on components and their interactions, might afford the best approach to the complexities of the ASD realm. Categorical approaches are unlikely to be fruitful as one should not expect to find a single or even predominant underlying cause of autism behavior across individuals. It is possible that the complex, highly interactive, heterogeneous and individualistic nature of the autism realm is intractable in terms of identifying clinically useful biomarker tests. It is hopeful from an emergenic perspective that small corrective changes in a single component of a deleterious network/configuration might have large beneficial consequences on developmental trajectories and in later treatment. It is suggested that the relationship between ASD and intellectual disability might be fundamentally different in single-gene versus nonsyndromic ASD. It is strongly stated that available biomarker "tests" for autism/ASD will do more harm than good. Finally, the serotonin-melatonin-oxidative stress-placental intersection might be an especially fruitful area of biological investigation.
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27
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Kelmanson IA. [Sleep disturbances in children with autistic spectrum disorders]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2015; 115:102-107. [PMID: 26322364 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro201511541102-107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
An association between sleep disorders and autistic spectrum disorders in children is considered. Characteristic variants of sleep disorders, including resistance to going to bed, frequent night awakenings, parasomnias, changes in sleep structure, primarily, the decrease in the percentage of rapid eye movement sleep, are presented. Attention is focused on the possibility of the direct relationship between sleep disturbance and the pathogenesis of autistic spectrum disorders. A role of pathological alterations in the production of neuromediators and morphological changes in the brain structures characteristic of autistic spectrum disorders in the genesis of sleep disorders in children is discussed. Possible non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Kelmanson
- Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Special Education and Psychology of International University for Family and Child, St. Petersburg
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28
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Jaiswal P, Mohanakumar KP, Rajamma U. Serotonin mediated immunoregulation and neural functions: Complicity in the aetiology of autism spectrum disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 55:413-31. [PMID: 26021727 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Serotonergic system has long been implicated in the aetiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), since platelet hyperserotonemia is consistently observed in a subset of autistic patients, who respond well to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Apart from being a neurotransmitter, serotonin functions as a neurotrophic factor directing brain development and as an immunoregulator modulating immune responses. Serotonin transporter (SERT) regulates serotonin level in lymphoid tissues to ensure its proper functioning in innate and adaptive responses. Immunological molecules such as cytokines in turn regulate the transcription and activity of SERT. Dysregulation of serotonergic system could trigger signalling cascades that affect normal neural-immune interactions culminating in neurodevelopmental and neural connectivity defects precipitating behavioural abnormalities, or the disease phenotypes. Therefore, we suggest that a better understanding of the cross talk between serotonergic genes, immune systems and serotonergic neurotransmission will open wider avenues to develop pharmacological leads for addressing the core ASD behavioural deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Jaiswal
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector-J, EM Bypass, Kolkata 700 107, India
| | - Kochupurackal P Mohanakumar
- Division of Cell Biology & Physiology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S.C. Mullick Road, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700 032, India
| | - Usha Rajamma
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector-J, EM Bypass, Kolkata 700 107, India.
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29
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Kepser LJ, Homberg JR. The neurodevelopmental effects of serotonin: A behavioural perspective. Behav Brain Res 2015; 277:3-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Revised: 05/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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30
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Janušonis S. Serotonin dynamics in and around the central nervous system: is autism solvable without fundamental insights? Int J Dev Neurosci 2014; 39:9-15. [PMID: 24886833 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) signaling has been implicated in some developmental abnormalities of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the presumed role of 5-HT in ASD raises new questions in fundamental neuroscience. Specifically, it is not clear if the current piecemeal approach to 5-HT signaling in the mammalian body is effective and whether new conceptual approaches may be required. This review briefly discusses 5-HT production and circulation in the central nervous system and outside of it, especially with regard to ASD, and proposes a more encompassing approach that questions the utility of the "neurotransmitter" concept. It then introduces the idea of a generalized 5-HT packet that may offer insights into possible links between serotonergic varicosities and blood platelets. These approaches have theoretical significance, but they are also well positioned to advance our understanding of some long-standing problems in autism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skirmantas Janušonis
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-9660, USA.
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Weiser MJ, Wynalda K, Salem N, Butt CM. Dietary DHA during development affects depression-like behaviors and biomarkers that emerge after puberty in adolescent rats. J Lipid Res 2014; 56:151-66. [PMID: 25411442 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m055558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
DHA is an important omega-3 PUFA that confers neurodevelopmental benefits. Sufficient omega-3 PUFA intake has been associated with improved mood-associated measures in adult humans and rodents, but it is unknown whether DHA specifically influences these benefits. Furthermore, the extent to which development and puberty interact with the maternal diet and the offspring diet to affect mood-related behaviors in adolescence is poorly understood. We sought to address these questions by 1) feeding pregnant rats with diets sufficient or deficient in DHA during gestation and lactation; 2) weaning their male offspring to diets that were sufficient or deficient in DHA; and 3) assessing depression-related behaviors (forced swim test), plasma biomarkers [brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), serotonin, and melatonin], and brain biomarkers (BDNF) in the offspring before and after puberty. No dietary effects were detected when the offspring were evaluated before puberty. In contrast, after puberty depressive-like behavior and its associated biomarkers were worse in DHA-deficient offspring compared with animals with sufficient levels of DHA. The findings reported here suggest that maintaining sufficient DHA levels throughout development (both pre- and postweaning) may increase resiliency to emotional stressors and decrease susceptibility to mood disorders that commonly arise during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Weiser
- Human Nutrition and Health (HNH)-Biological Models, DSM Nutritional Products, Boulder, CO 80301
| | - Kelly Wynalda
- Human Nutrition and Health (HNH)-Biological Models, DSM Nutritional Products, Boulder, CO 80301
| | - Norman Salem
- Nutritional Lipids, DSM Nutritional Products, Columbia, MD 21045
| | - Christopher M Butt
- Human Nutrition and Health (HNH)-Biological Models, DSM Nutritional Products, Boulder, CO 80301
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The serotonin-N-acetylserotonin-melatonin pathway as a biomarker for autism spectrum disorders. Transl Psychiatry 2014; 4:e479. [PMID: 25386956 PMCID: PMC4259991 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2014.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 09/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated whole-blood serotonin and decreased plasma melatonin (a circadian synchronizer hormone that derives from serotonin) have been reported independently in patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Here, we explored, in parallel, serotonin, melatonin and the intermediate N-acetylserotonin (NAS) in a large cohort of patients with ASD and their relatives. We then investigated the clinical correlates of these biochemical parameters. Whole-blood serotonin, platelet NAS and plasma melatonin were assessed in 278 patients with ASD, their 506 first-degree relatives (129 unaffected siblings, 199 mothers and 178 fathers) and 416 sex- and age-matched controls. We confirmed the previously reported hyperserotonemia in ASD (40% (35-46%) of patients), as well as the deficit in melatonin (51% (45-57%)), taking as a threshold the 95th or 5th percentile of the control group, respectively. In addition, this study reveals an increase of NAS (47% (41-54%) of patients) in platelets, pointing to a disruption of the serotonin-NAS-melatonin pathway in ASD. Biochemical impairments were also observed in the first-degree relatives of patients. A score combining impairments of serotonin, NAS and melatonin distinguished between patients and controls with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 85%. In patients the melatonin deficit was only significantly associated with insomnia. Impairments of melatonin synthesis in ASD may be linked with decreased 14-3-3 proteins. Although ASDs are highly heterogeneous, disruption of the serotonin-NAS-melatonin pathway is a very frequent trait in patients and may represent a useful biomarker for a large subgroup of individuals with ASD.
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Ciranna L, Catania MV. 5-HT7 receptors as modulators of neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission and plasticity: physiological role and possible implications in autism spectrum disorders. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:250. [PMID: 25221471 PMCID: PMC4145633 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin type 7 receptors (5-HT7) are expressed in several brain areas, regulate brain development, synaptic transmission and plasticity, and therefore are involved in various brain functions such as learning and memory. A number of studies suggest that 5-HT7 receptors could be potential pharmacotherapeutic target for cognitive disorders. Several abnormalities of serotonergic system have been described in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including abnormal activity of 5-HT transporter, altered blood and brain 5-HT levels, reduced 5-HT synthesis and altered expression of 5-HT receptors in the brain. A specific role for 5-HT7 receptors in ASD has not yet been demonstrated but some evidence implicates their possible involvement. We have recently shown that 5-HT7 receptor activation rescues hippocampal synaptic plasticity in a mouse model of Fragile X Syndrome, a monogenic cause of autism. Several other studies have shown that 5-HT7 receptors modulate behavioral flexibility, exploratory behavior, mood disorders and epilepsy, which include core and co-morbid symptoms of ASD. These findings further suggest an involvement of 5-HT7 receptors in ASD. Here, we review the physiological roles of 5-HT7 receptors and their implications in Fragile X Syndrome and other ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Ciranna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Catania Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Catania
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) Catania, Italy ; Laboratory of Neurobiology, IRCCS Oasi Maria SS Troina, Italy
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Gabriele S, Sacco R, Persico AM. Blood serotonin levels in autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 24:919-29. [PMID: 24613076 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Revised: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Elevated blood serotonin (5-HT) levels were the first biomarker identified in autism research. Many studies have contrasted blood 5-HT levels in autistic patients and controls, but different measurement protocols, technologies, and biomaterials have been used through the years. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to provide an overall estimate of effect size and between-study heterogeneity, while verifying whether and to what extent different methodological approaches influence the strength of this association. Our literature search strategy identified 551 papers, from which 22 studies providing patient and control blood 5-HT values were selected for meta-analysis. Significantly higher 5-HT levels in autistic patients compared to controls were recorded both in whole blood (WB) [O.R.=4.6; (3.1-5.2); P=1.0×10(-12]), and in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) [O.R.=2.6 (1.8-3.9); P=2.7×10(-7)]. Predictably, studies measuring 5-HT levels in platelet-poor plasma (PPP) yielded no significant group difference [O.R.=0.54 (0.2-2-0); P=0.36]. Altogether, elevated 5-HT blood levels were recorded in 28.3% in WB and 22.5% in PRP samples of autistic individuals, as reported in 15 and 4 studies, respectively. Studies employing HPLC vs fluorometric assays yield similar cumulative effect sizes, but the former display much lower variability. In summary, despite some limitations mainly due to small study sample sizes, our results significantly reinforce the reliability of elevated 5-HT blood levels as a biomarker in ASD, providing practical indications potentially useful for its inclusion in multi-marker diagnostic panels for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Gabriele
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, I-00128 Rome, Italy; Department of Experimental Neurosciences, I.R.C.C.S. "Fondazione Santa Lucia", Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Sacco
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, I-00128 Rome, Italy; Department of Experimental Neurosciences, I.R.C.C.S. "Fondazione Santa Lucia", Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio M Persico
- Unit of Child and Adolescent NeuroPsychiatry, Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, I-00128 Rome, Italy; Department of Experimental Neurosciences, I.R.C.C.S. "Fondazione Santa Lucia", Rome, Italy; Mafalda Luce Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Milan, Italy.
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Lasting neurobehavioral abnormalities in rats after neonatal activation of serotonin 1A and 1B receptors: possible mechanisms for serotonin dysfunction in autistic spectrum disorders. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:1191-200. [PMID: 23975037 PMCID: PMC3933458 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3242-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Perinatal exposure of rats to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) produces sensory and social abnormalities paralleling those seen in autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, the possible mechanism(s) by which this exposure produces behavioral abnormalities is unclear. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that the lasting effects of neonatal SSRI exposure are a consequence of abnormal stimulation of 5-HT1A and/or 5-HT1B receptors during brain development. We examined whether such stimulation would result in lasting sensory and social deficits in rats in a manner similar to SSRIs using both direct agonist stimulation of receptors as well as selective antagonism of these receptors during SSRI exposure. METHODS Male and female rat pups were treated from postnatal days 8 to 21. In Experiment 1, pups received citalopram (20 mg/kg/day), saline, (±)-8-hydroxy-dipropylaminotetralin hydrobromide (8-OH-DPAT; 0.5 mg/kg/day) or 7-trifluoromethyl-4(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-pyrrolo[1,2-a]-quinoxaline dimaleate (CGS-12066B; 10 mg/kg/day). In Experiment 2, a separate cohort of pups received citalopram (20 mg/kg/day), or saline which was combined with either N-[2-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-N-2-pyridinylcyclo-hexanecarboxamide maleate (WAY-100635; 0.6 mg/kg/day) or N-[4-methoxy-3-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)phenyl]-2'-methyl-4'-(5-methyl-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)-1-1'-biphenyl-4-carboxamide (GR-127935; 6 mg/kg/day) or vehicle. Rats were then tested in paradigms designed to assess sensory and social response behaviors at different time points during development. RESULTS Direct and indirect neonatal stimulation of 5-HT1A or 5-HT1B receptors disrupts sensory processing, produces neophobia, increases stereotypic activity, and impairs social interactions in manner analogous to that observed in ASD. CONCLUSION Increased stimulation of 5-HT1A and 5-HT1B receptors plays a significant role in the production of lasting social and sensory deficits in adult animals exposed as neonates to SSRIs.
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Ruggeri B, Sarkans U, Schumann G, Persico AM. Biomarkers in autism spectrum disorder: the old and the new. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:1201-16. [PMID: 24096533 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3290-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with onset during early childhood and typically a life-long course. The majority of ASD cases stems from complex, 'multiple-hit', oligogenic/polygenic underpinnings involving several loci and possibly gene-environment interactions. These multiple layers of complexity spur interest into the identification of biomarkers able to define biologically homogeneous subgroups, predict autism risk prior to the onset of behavioural abnormalities, aid early diagnoses, predict the developmental trajectory of ASD children, predict response to treatment and identify children at risk for severe adverse reactions to psychoactive drugs. OBJECTIVES The present paper reviews (a) similarities and differences between the concepts of 'biomarker' and 'endophenotype', (b) established biomarkers and endophenotypes in autism research (biochemical, morphological, hormonal, immunological, neurophysiological and neuroanatomical, neuropsychological, behavioural), (c) -omics approaches towards the discovery of novel biomarker panels for ASD, (d) bioresource infrastructures and (e) data management for biomarker research in autism. RESULTS Known biomarkers, such as abnormal blood levels of serotonin, oxytocin, melatonin, immune cytokines and lymphocyte subtypes, multiple neuropsychological, electrophysiological and brain imaging parameters, will eventually merge with novel biomarkers identified using unbiased genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic methods, to generate multimarker panels. Bioresource infrastructures, data management and data analysis using artificial intelligence networks will be instrumental in supporting efforts to identify these biomarker panels. CONCLUSIONS Biomarker research has great heuristic potential in targeting autism diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ruggeri
- MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
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Tordjman S, Anderson GM, Cohen D, Kermarrec S, Carlier M, Touitou Y, Saugier-Veber P, Lagneaux C, Chevreuil C, Verloes A. Presence of autism, hyperserotonemia, and severe expressive language impairment in Williams-Beuren syndrome. Mol Autism 2013; 4:29. [PMID: 23972161 PMCID: PMC3765460 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-4-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deletion of the Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) critical region (WBSCR), at 7q11.23, causes a developmental disorder commonly characterized by hypersociability and excessive talkativeness and often considered the opposite behavioral phenotype to autism. Duplication of the WBSCR leads to severe delay in expressive language. Gene-dosage effects on language development at 7q11.23 have been hypothesized. METHODS Molecular characterization of the WBSCR was performed by fluorescence in situ hybridization and high-resolution single-nucleotide polymorphism array in two individuals with severe autism enrolled in a genetic study of autism who showed typical WBS facial dysmorphism on systematic clinical genetic examination. The serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR, locus SLC6A4) was genotyped. Platelet serotonin levels and urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin excretion were measured. Behavioral and cognitive phenotypes were examined. RESULTS The two patients had common WBSCR deletions between proximal and medial low copy repeat clusters, met diagnostic criteria for autism and displayed severe impairment in communication, including a total absence of expressive speech. Both patients carried the 5-HTTLPR ss genotype and exhibited platelet hyperserotonemia and low melatonin production. CONCLUSIONS Our observations indicate that behaviors and neurochemical phenotypes typically associated with autism can occur in patients with common WBSCR deletions. The results raise intriguing questions about phenotypic heterogeneity in WBS and regarding genetic and/or environmental factors interacting with specific genes at 7q11.23 sensitive to dosage alterations that can influence the development of social communication skills. Thus, the influence of WBSCR genes on social communication expression might be dramatically modified by other genes, such as 5-HTTLPR, known to influence the severity of social communication impairments in autism, or by environmental factors, such as hyperserotonemia, given that hyperserotonemia is found in WBS associated with autism but not in WBS without autism. In this regard, WBS provides a potentially fruitful model with which to develop integrated genetic, cognitive, behavioral and neurochemical approaches to study genotype-phenotype correlations, possible gene-environment interactions and genetic background effects. The results underscore the importance of considering careful clinical and molecular genetic examination of individuals diagnosed with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Tordjman
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Regnier and Medical School of the University of Rennes 1, Rennes 35000, France
- Laboratoire de la Psychologie de la Perception, CNRS UMR 8158, Centre Biomédical des Saints Pères, 75006 Paris, France
| | - George M Anderson
- The Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT 06511, USA
| | - David Cohen
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie and CNRS UMR 7222, Paris, France
| | - Solenn Kermarrec
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Regnier and Medical School of the University of Rennes 1, Rennes 35000, France
| | - Michèle Carlier
- Laboratoire de Psychologie Cognitive, Aix-Marseille University, CNRS UMR 7290, Marseille, France
| | - Yvan Touitou
- Chronobiology Unit, Rothschild Foundation, Paris, France
| | | | - Céline Lagneaux
- Department of Genetics, AP-HP-Robert Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Claire Chevreuil
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Regnier and Medical School of the University of Rennes 1, Rennes 35000, France
| | - Alain Verloes
- Department of Genetics, AP-HP-Robert Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
- INSERM U676, AP-HP-Robert Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
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Singh AS, Chandra R, Guhathakurta S, Sinha S, Chatterjee A, Ahmed S, Ghosh S, Rajamma U. Genetic association and gene-gene interaction analyses suggest likely involvement of ITGB3 and TPH2 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Indian population. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2013; 45:131-43. [PMID: 23628433 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Revised: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotoninergic dysfunction leads to neurodevelopmental abnormalities and behavioral impairments. Platelet hyperserotoninemia is reported as the best identified endophenotype for autism spectrum disorders. Therefore, in the present study we investigate the association of TPH2, the rate limiting enzyme in 5-HT biosynthesis and ITGB3, a serotonin quantitative trait locus with ASD in the Indian population. METHODS Population and family-based genetic association and gene-gene interaction analyses were performed to evaluate the role of ITGB3 and TPH2 markers in ASD etiology. RESULTS Association tests using ITGB3 markers revealed significant paternal overtransmission of T allele of rs5918 to male probands. Interestingly for TPH2, we observed significant overrepresentation of A-A (rs11179000-rs4290270), G-A (rs4570625-rs4290270), G-G-A (rs4570625-rs11179001-rs4290270) and A-G-A (rs11179000-rs11179001-rs4290270) haplotypes in the controls and maternal preferential transmission of A-A (rs11179001-rs7305115), T-A-A (rs4570625-rs11179001-rs7305115) and T-A-A (rs11179000-rs11179001-rs7305115) and nontransmission of G-G-A (rs4570625-rs11179001-rs7305115) haplotypes to the affected offspring. Moreover, interaction of ITGB3 marker, rs15908 with TPH2 markers was found to be significant and influenced by the sex of the probands. Predicted individual risk, which varied from very mild to moderate, supports combined effect of these markers in ASD. CONCLUSION Overall results of the present study indicate likely involvement of ITGB3 and TPH2 in the pathophysiology of ASD in the Indian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asem Surindro Singh
- Manovikas Biomedical Research & Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector J, EM bypass, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
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Oblak A, Gibbs TT, Blatt GJ. Reduced serotonin receptor subtypes in a limbic and a neocortical region in autism. Autism Res 2013; 6:571-83. [PMID: 23894004 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a behaviorally defined, neurological disorder with symptom onset before the age of 3. Abnormalities in social-emotional behaviors are a core deficit in autism, and are characterized by impaired reciprocal-social interaction, lack of facial expressions, and the inability to recognize familiar faces. The posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and fusiform gyrus (FG) are two regions within an extensive limbic-cortical network that contribute to social-emotional behaviors. Evidence indicates that changes in brains of individuals with autism begin prenatally. Serotonin (5-HT) is one of the earliest expressed neurotransmitters, and plays an important role in synaptogenesis, neurite outgrowth, and neuronal migration. Abnormalities in 5-HT systems have been implicated in several psychiatric disorders, including autism, as evidenced by immunology, imaging, genetics, pharmacotherapy, and neuropathology. Although information is known regarding peripheral 5-HT in autism, there is emerging evidence that 5-HT systems in the central nervous system, including various 5-HT receptor subtypes and transporters, are affected in autism. The present study demonstrated significant reductions in 5-HT1A receptor-binding density in superficial and deep layers of the PCC and FG, and in the density of 5-HT(2A) receptors in superficial layers of the PCC and FG. A significant reduction in the density of serotonin transporters (5-HTT) was also found in the deep layers of the FG, but normal levels were demonstrated in both layers of the PCC and superficial layers of the FG. This study provides potential substrates for decreased 5-HT modulation/innervation in the autism brain, and implicate two 5-HT receptor subtypes as potential neuromarkers for novel or existing pharmacotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Oblak
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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Harrington RA, Lee LC, Crum RM, Zimmerman AW, Hertz-Picciotto I. Serotonin Hypothesis of Autism: Implications for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor Use during Pregnancy. Autism Res 2013; 6:149-68. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.1288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. Harrington
- Department of Epidemiology; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; Baltimore; Maryland
| | - Li-Ching Lee
- Department of Epidemiology; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; Baltimore; Maryland
| | - Rosa M. Crum
- Departments of Epidemiology, Psychiatry, and Mental Health; Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions; Baltimore; Maryland
| | - Andrew W. Zimmerman
- Lurie Center for Autism; Massachusetts General Hospital for Children; Lexington; Massachusetts
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences and the M.I.N.D. Institute; MS1C; University of California, Davis; Davis; California
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Chomiak T, Hu B. Alterations of neocortical development and maturation in autism: insight from valproic acid exposure and animal models of autism. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2012; 36:57-66. [PMID: 22967743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2012.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Revised: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviourally defined brain disorder affecting approximately 1 in 88 children. Many pathological studies have shown that ASD is frequently associated with grey and white matter changes that can be described by their deviations from the normal trajectory of cortical maturation. For example, during the early (i.e. <2 years) postnatal period there is marked and selective tissue overgrowth in the higher-order temporal and frontal networks involved in emotional, social, and communication functions. In this focused review we first summarize some basic principles of neocortical neural organization and how they are disrupted in ASD. We will then highlight some of the potential mechanisms by which the normal developmental trajectory and organization of neocortical networks can be altered based on animal studies of valproic acid, a teratogen widely used in animal models of ASD. We argue that the trajectory of postnatal cerebral neocortex development may be influenced by several cellular and molecular mechanisms that may all converge to produce a neuropathology characterized by premature or accelerated neuronal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Chomiak
- Division of Experimental Neuroscience, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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Hammock E, Veenstra-VanderWeele J, Yan Z, Kerr TM, Morris M, Anderson GM, Carter CS, Cook EH, Jacob S. Examining autism spectrum disorders by biomarkers: example from the oxytocin and serotonin systems. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2012; 51:712-721.e1. [PMID: 22721594 PMCID: PMC3672055 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2012.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Revised: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heritable but highly heterogeneous neuropsychiatric syndrome, which poses challenges for research relying solely on behavioral symptoms or diagnosis. Examining biomarkers may give us ways to identify individuals who demonstrate specific developmental trajectories and etiological factors related to ASD. Plasma oxytocin (OT) and whole-blood serotonin (5-HT) levels are consistently altered in some individuals with ASD. Reciprocal relationships have been described between brain oxytocin and serotonin systems during development. We therefore investigated the relationship between these peripheral biomarkers as well as their relationships with age. METHOD In our first study, we analyzed correlations between these two biomarkers in 31 children and adolescents who were diagnosed with autism and were not on medications. In our second study, we explored whether whole-blood 5-HT levels are altered in mice lacking the oxytocin receptor gene Oxtr. RESULTS In humans, OT and 5-HT were negatively correlated with each other (p < .05) and this relationship was most prominent in children less than 11 years old. Paralleling human findings, mice lacking Oxtr showed increased whole-blood 5-HT levels (p = .05), with this effect driven exclusively by mice less than 4 months old (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS Identifying relationships between identified ASD biomarkers may be a useful approach to connect otherwise disparate findings that span multiple systems in this heterogeneous disorder. Using neurochemical biomarkers to perform parallel studies in animal and human populations within a developmental context is a plausible approach to probe the root causes of ASD and to identify potential interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Hammock
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Doyle CA, McDougle CJ. Pharmacotherapy to control behavioral symptoms in children with autism. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2012; 13:1615-29. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2012.674110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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44
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Flood ZC, Engel DLJ, Simon CC, Negherbon KR, Murphy LJ, Tamavimok W, Anderson GM, Janušonis S. Brain growth trajectories in mouse strains with central and peripheral serotonin differences: relevance to autism models. Neuroscience 2012; 210:286-95. [PMID: 22450231 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2012] [Revised: 03/01/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The genetic heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) suggests that their underlying neurobiology involves dysfunction at the neural network level. Understanding these neural networks will require a major collaborative effort and will depend on validated and widely accepted animal models. Many mouse models have been proposed in autism research, but the assessment of their validity often has been limited to measuring social interactions. However, two other well-replicated findings have been reported in ASDs: transient brain overgrowth in early postnatal life and elevated 5-HT (serotonin) levels in blood platelets (platelet hyperserotonemia). We examined two inbred mouse strains (C57BL/6 and BALB/c) with respect to these phenomena. The BALB/c strain is less social and exhibits some other autistic-like behaviors. In addition, it has a lower 5-HT synthesis rate in the central nervous system due to a single-nucleotide polymorphism in the tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (Tph2) gene. The postnatal growth of brain mass was analyzed with mixed-effects models that included litter effects. The volume of the hippocampal complex and the thickness of the somatosensory cortex were measured in 3D-brain reconstructions from serial sections. The postnatal whole-blood 5-HT levels were assessed with high-performance liquid chromatography. With respect to the BALB/c strain, the C57BL/6 strain showed transient brain overgrowth and persistent blood hyperserotonemia. The hippocampal volume was permanently enlarged in the C57BL/6 strain, with no change in the adult brain mass. These results indicate that, in mice, autistic-like shifts in the brain and periphery may be associated with less autistic-like behaviors. Importantly, they suggest that consistency among behavioral, anatomical, and physiological measures may expedite the validation of new and previously proposed mouse models of autism, and that the construct validity of models should be demonstrated when these measures are inconsistent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z C Flood
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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Anderson GM, Hertzig ME, McBride PA. Brief Report: Platelet-Poor Plasma Serotonin in Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2011; 42:1510-4. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1371-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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A lack of association between hyperserotonemia and the increased frequency of serum anti-myelin basic protein auto-antibodies in autistic children. J Neuroinflammation 2011; 8:71. [PMID: 21696608 PMCID: PMC3142225 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-8-71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most consistent biological findings in autism is the elevated blood serotonin levels. Immune abnormalities, including autoimmunity with production of brain specific auto-antibodies, are also commonly observed in this disorder. Hyperserotonemia may be one of the contributing factors to autoimmunity in some patients with autism through the reduction of T-helper (Th) 1-type cytokines. We are the first to investigate the possible role of hyperserotonemia in the induction of autoimmunity, as indicated by serum anti-myelin-basic protein (anti-MBP) auto-antibodies, in autism. METHODS Serum levels of serotonin and anti-MBP auto-antibodies were measured, by ELISA, in 50 autistic patients, aged between 5 and 12 years, and 30 healthy-matched children. RESULTS Autistic children had significantly higher serum levels of serotonin and anti-MBP auto-antibodies than healthy children (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). Increased serum levels of serotonin and anti-MBP auto-antibodies were found in 92% and 80%, respectively of autistic patients. Patients with severe autism had significantly higher serum serotonin levels than children with mild to moderate autism (P < 0.001). Serum serotonin levels had no significant correlations with serum levels of anti-MBP auto-antibodies in autistic patients (P = 0.39). CONCLUSIONS Hyperserotonemia may not be one of the contributing factors to the increased frequency of serum anti-MBP auto-antibodies in some autistic children. These data should be treated with caution until further investigations are performed. However, inclusion of serum serotonin levels as a correlate may be useful in other future immune studies in autism to help unravel the long-standing mystery of hyperserotonemia and its possible role in the pathophysiology of this disorder.
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Sacco R, Curatolo P, Manzi B, Militerni R, Bravaccio C, Frolli A, Lenti C, Saccani M, Elia M, Reichelt KL, Pascucci T, Puglisi-Allegra S, Persico AM. Principal pathogenetic components and biological endophenotypes in autism spectrum disorders. Autism Res 2011; 3:237-52. [PMID: 20878720 DOI: 10.1002/aur.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, likely encompassing multiple pathogenetic components. The aim of this study is to begin identifying at least some of these components and to assess their association with biological endophenotypes. To address this issue, we recruited 245 Italian patients with idiopathic autism spectrum disorders and their first-degree relatives. Using a stepwise approach, patient and family history variables were analyzed using principal component analysis ("exploratory phase"), followed by intra- and inter-component cross-correlation analyses ("follow-up phase"), and by testing for association between each component and biological endophenotypes, namely head circumference, serotonin blood levels, and global urinary peptide excretion rates ("biological correlation phase"). Four independent components were identified, namely "circadian & sensory dysfunction," "immune dysfunction," "neurodevelopmental delay," and "stereotypic behavior," together representing 74.5% of phenotypic variance in our sample. Marker variables in the latter three components are positively associated with macrocephaly, global peptiduria, and serotonin blood levels, respectively. These four components point toward at least four processes associated with autism, namely (I) a disruption of the circadian cycle associated with behavioral and sensory abnormalities, (II) dysreactive immune processes, surprisingly linked both to prenatal obstetric complications and to excessive postnatal body growth rates, (III) a generalized developmental delay, and (IV) an abnormal neural circuitry underlying stereotypies and early social behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Sacco
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Rome, Italy
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Differential development of central dopaminergic and serotonergic systems in BALB/c and C57BL/6J mice. Brain Res 2010; 1349:97-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2010.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2010] [Revised: 05/21/2010] [Accepted: 06/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Hadjikhani N. Serotonin, pregnancy and increased autism prevalence: Is there a link? Med Hypotheses 2010; 74:880-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2009] [Accepted: 11/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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