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Alhazmi S, Alharthi M, Alzahrani M, Alrofaidi A, Basingab F, Almuhammadi A, Alkhatabi H, Ashi A, Chaudhary A, Elaimi A. Copy number variations in autistic children. Biomed Rep 2024; 21:107. [PMID: 38868529 PMCID: PMC11168027 DOI: 10.3892/br.2024.1795] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) manifests as a neurodevelopmental condition marked by challenges in social communication, interaction and the performing of repetitive behaviors. The prevalence of autism increases markedly on an annual basis; however, the etiology remains incompletely understood. Cytogenetically visible chromosomal abnormalities, including copy number variations (CNVs), have been shown to contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD. More than 1% of ASD conditions can be explained based on a known genetic locus, whereas CNVs account for 5-10% of cases. However, there are no studies on the Saudi Arabian population for the detection of CNVs linked to ASD, to the best of our knowledge. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the prevalence of CNVs in autistic Saudi Arabian children. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of 14 autistic children along with four healthy control children and then array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) was used to detect CNVs. Bioinformatics analysis of the aCGH results showed the presence of recurrent and non-recurrent deletion/duplication CNVs in several regions of the genome of autistic children. The most frequent CNVs were 1q21.2, 3p26.3, 4q13.2, 6p25.3, 6q24.2, 7p21.1, 7q34, 7q11.1, 8p23.2, 13q32.3, 14q11.1-q11.2 and 15q11.1-q11.2. In the present study, CNVs in autistic Saudi Arabian children were identified to improve the understanding of the etiology of autism and facilitate its diagnosis. Additionally, the present study identified certain possible pathogenic genes in the CNV region associated with several developmental and neurogenetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safiah Alhazmi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Immunology Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Neuroscience and Geroscience Research Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Central Laboratory of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maram Alharthi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Alzahrani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aisha Alrofaidi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatemah Basingab
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Immunology Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Centre, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Almuhammadi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heba Alkhatabi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Hematology Research Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abrar Ashi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adeel Chaudhary
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aisha Elaimi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22252, Saudi Arabia
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Dubois MA, Pelletier CA, Mérette C, Jomphe V, Turgeon R, Bélanger RE, Grondin S, Hébert M. Evaluation of electroretinography (ERG) parameters as a biomarker for ADHD. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 127:110807. [PMID: 37290571 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The retina is recognized as an accessible part of the brain due to their common embryonic origin. The electroretinogram (ERG) has proven to be a valuable tool for detecting schizophrenia and bipolarity. We therefore investigated its ability to detect ADHD. METHODS The cone and rod luminance response functions of the ERG were recorded in 26 ADHD subjects (17 women and 9 men) and 25 controls (16 women and 9 men). RESULTS No significant differences were found between the mixed groups, but sexual dysmorphia was observed in the significant results. In males, a significant prolonged cone a-wave latency was observed in the ADHD group. In females, we observed a significant decrease in the cone a- and b-wave amplitudes and a trend for a prolonged cone b-wave latency as well as a higher scotopic mixed rod-cone a-wave in the ADHD group. CONCLUSION The data obtained in this study show the potential of the ERG to detect ADHD, warranting further large-scale studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Dubois
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec, QC, Canada; School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Charles-Antoine Pelletier
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Mérette
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Jomphe
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Rose Turgeon
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Richard E Bélanger
- CHU de Québec Research Centre, Quebec, QC, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Grondin
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Marc Hébert
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec, QC, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.
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Constable PA, Lim JKH, Thompson DA. Retinal electrophysiology in central nervous system disorders. A review of human and mouse studies. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1215097. [PMID: 37600004 PMCID: PMC10433210 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1215097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The retina and brain share similar neurochemistry and neurodevelopmental origins, with the retina, often viewed as a "window to the brain." With retinal measures of structure and function becoming easier to obtain in clinical populations there is a growing interest in using retinal findings as potential biomarkers for disorders affecting the central nervous system. Functional retinal biomarkers, such as the electroretinogram, show promise in neurological disorders, despite having limitations imposed by the existence of overlapping genetic markers, clinical traits or the effects of medications that may reduce their specificity in some conditions. This narrative review summarizes the principal functional retinal findings in central nervous system disorders and related mouse models and provides a background to the main excitatory and inhibitory retinal neurotransmitters that have been implicated to explain the visual electrophysiological findings. These changes in retinal neurochemistry may contribute to our understanding of these conditions based on the findings of retinal electrophysiological tests such as the flash, pattern, multifocal electroretinograms, and electro-oculogram. It is likely that future applications of signal analysis and machine learning algorithms will offer new insights into the pathophysiology, classification, and progression of these clinical disorders including autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease. New clinical applications of visual electrophysiology to this field may lead to earlier, more accurate diagnoses and better targeted therapeutic interventions benefiting individual patients and clinicians managing these individuals and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A. Constable
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jeremiah K. H. Lim
- Discipline of Optometry, School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Dorothy A. Thompson
- The Tony Kriss Visual Electrophysiology Unit, Clinical and Academic Department of Ophthalmology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Modrzejewska M, Bosy-Gąsior W. The Use of Optical Coherence Tomography and Electrophysiological Tests in the Early Diagnosis of Inflammatory Changes in the CNS in children with ASD-A Review of Contemporary Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3591. [PMID: 36834288 PMCID: PMC9964154 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This article is a review of the contemporary literature on the possibility of using modern ophthalmological diagnostics, such as optical coherence tomography and electrophysiological tests, in the assessment of changes in eyesight correlating with inflammatory changes in the central nervous system (CNS) as one of the risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders in children with ASD. A significant role is attributed to the activation of nerve and glial cells, as well as inflammatory changes in the brain, both of which can be of great importance in regard to an autism development predisposition. This fact indicates the possibility of using certain ophthalmic markers to depict an early correlation between the CNS and its outermost layer, i.e., the retina. A comprehensive ophthalmological assessment, and above all, characteristic changes in the functional function of photoreceptors and disorders of the structures of the retina or optic nerve fibers found in the latest OCT or ERG tests may in the future become diagnostic tools, further confirming the early characteristics of autism in children and adolescents. The above information, therefore, emphasizes the importance of cooperation between specialists in improving the diagnosis and treatment of children with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Modrzejewska
- 2nd Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Wiktoria Bosy-Gąsior
- Scientific Association of Students 2nd Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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Friedel EBN, Schäfer M, Endres D, Maier S, Runge K, Bach M, Heinrich SP, Ebert D, Domschke K, Tebartz van Elst L, Nickel K. Electroretinography in adults with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2022; 15:2026-2037. [PMID: 36217563 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The electroretinogram (ERG) allows the investigation of retinal signaling pathways and has increasingly been applied in individuals with mental disorders in search for potential biomarkers of neurodevelopmental disorders. Preceding ERG examinations in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) showed inconsistent results, which might be due to the small number of participants, heterogeneity of the ASD population, differences in age ranges, and stimulation methods. The aim of this study was to investigate functional retinal responses in adults with ASD by means of the light-adapted (photopic) ERG. Light-adapted ERG measurements were obtained with the RETeval® system applying three different stimulation protocols. In the final analysis, the ERG parameters a-wave, b-wave, the photopic negative response (PhNR), the photopic hill parameters as well as additional amplitude ratios were compared between 32 adults with high-functioning ASD and 31 non-autistic controls. Both groups were matched with regard to sex and age. No significant functional retinal differences in amplitude or peak time of the a- or b-wave, PhNR, the photopic hill parameters or the ERG-amplitude ratios could be detected in individuals with ASD compared to non-autistic participants. The absence of electrophysiological functional retinal alterations in ASD, suggests that changes in visual perception, such as increased attention to detail or visual hypersensitivity in ASD, are not due to impairments at early levels of retinal signal processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn B N Friedel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mirjam Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominique Endres
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon Maier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kimon Runge
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Bach
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sven P Heinrich
- Eye Center, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dieter Ebert
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Domschke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Basics in Neuromodulation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ludger Tebartz van Elst
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Nickel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Constable PA, Marmolejo-Ramos F, Gauthier M, Lee IO, Skuse DH, Thompson DA. Discrete Wavelet Transform Analysis of the Electroretinogram in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:890461. [PMID: 35733935 PMCID: PMC9207322 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.890461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the electroretinogram waveform in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using a discrete wavelet transform (DWT) approach. Methods A total of 55 ASD, 15 ADHD and 156 control individuals took part in this study. Full field light-adapted electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded using a Troland protocol, accounting for pupil size, with five flash strengths ranging from –0.12 to 1.20 log photopic cd.s.m–2. A DWT analysis was performed using the Haar wavelet on the waveforms to examine the energy within the time windows of the a- and b-waves and the oscillatory potentials (OPs) which yielded six DWT coefficients related to these parameters. The central frequency bands were from 20–160 Hz relating to the a-wave, b-wave and OPs represented by the coefficients: a20, a40, b20, b40, op80, and op160, respectively. In addition, the b-wave amplitude and percentage energy contribution of the OPs (%OPs) in the total ERG broadband energy was evaluated. Results There were significant group differences (p < 0.001) in the coefficients corresponding to energies in the b-wave (b20, b40) and OPs (op80 and op160) as well as the b-wave amplitude. Notable differences between the ADHD and control groups were found in the b20 and b40 coefficients. In contrast, the greatest differences between the ASD and control group were found in the op80 and op160 coefficients. The b-wave amplitude showed both ASD and ADHD significant group differences from the control participants, for flash strengths greater than 0.4 log photopic cd.s.m–2 (p < 0.001). Conclusion This methodological approach may provide insights about neuronal activity in studies investigating group differences where retinal signaling may be altered through neurodevelopment or neurodegenerative conditions. However, further work will be required to determine if retinal signal analysis can offer a classification model for neurodevelopmental conditions in which there is a co-occurrence such as ASD and ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A. Constable
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Paul A. Constable,
| | - Fernando Marmolejo-Ramos
- Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Mercedes Gauthier
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Irene O. Lee
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Population, Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David H. Skuse
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Population, Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dorothy A. Thompson
- The Tony Kriss Visual Electrophysiology Unit, Clinical and Academic Department of Ophthalmology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Lee IO, Skuse DH, Constable PA, Marmolejo-Ramos F, Olsen LR, Thompson DA. The electroretinogram b-wave amplitude: a differential physiological measure for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Neurodev Disord 2022; 14:30. [PMID: 35524181 PMCID: PMC9077889 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-022-09440-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most prevalent childhood neurodevelopmental disorder. It shares some genetic risk with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and the conditions often occur together. Both are potentially associated with abnormal glutamate and GABA neurotransmission, which can be modelled by measuring the synaptic activity in the retina with an electroretinogram (ERG). Reduction of retinal responses in ASD has been reported, but little is known about retinal activity in ADHD. In this study, we compared the light-adapted ERGs of individuals with ADHD, ASD and controls to investigate whether retinal responses differ between these neurodevelopmental conditions. Methods Full field light-adapted ERGs were recorded from 15 ADHD, 57 ASD (without ADHD) and 59 control participants, aged from 5.4 to 27.3 years old. A Troland protocol was used with a random series of nine flash strengths from −0.367 to 1.204 log photopic cd.s.m−2. The time-to-peak and amplitude of the a- and b-waves and the parameters of the Photopic Negative Response (PhNR) were compared amongst the three groups of participants, using generalised estimating equations. Results Statistically significant elevations of the ERG b-wave amplitudes, PhNR responses and faster timings of the b-wave time-to-peak were found in those with ADHD compared with both the control and ASD groups. The greatest elevation in the b-wave amplitudes associated with ADHD were observed at 1.204 log phot cd.s.m−2 flash strength (p < .0001), at which the b-wave amplitude in ASD was significantly lower than that in the controls. Using this measure, ADHD could be distinguished from ASD with an area under the curve of 0.88. Conclusions The ERG b-wave amplitude appears to be a distinctive differential feature for both ADHD and ASD, which produced a reversed pattern of b-wave responses. These findings imply imbalances between glutamate and GABA neurotransmission which primarily regulate the b-wave formation. Abnormalities in the b-wave amplitude could provisionally serve as a biomarker for both neurodevelopmental conditions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s11689-022-09440-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene O Lee
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Population Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - David H Skuse
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Population Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul A Constable
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Fernando Marmolejo-Ramos
- Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ludvig R Olsen
- Department of Molecular Medicine (MOMA), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dorothy A Thompson
- The Tony Kriss Visual Electrophysiology Unit, Clinical and Academic Department of Ophthalmology, Sight and Sound Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK.,UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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Constable PA, Lee IO, Marmolejo-Ramos F, Skuse DH, Thompson DA. The photopic negative response in autism spectrum disorder. Clin Exp Optom 2021; 104:841-847. [PMID: 33826873 DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2021.1903808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE To ascertain if the photopic negative response of the electroretinogram is different in autism spectrum disorder as a potential clinical marker. BACKGROUND Visual function can be atypical in autism spectrum disorder and structural imaging of the ganglion cell layers has been reported to differ in these individuals. Therefore, we sought to investigate if the photopic negative response of the full field electroretinograms, a measure of ganglion cell function, could help explain the visual perceptual differences in autism spectrum disorder and support the structural changes observed. METHODS Participants (n = 55 autism spectrum disorder, aged 5.4-26.7 years) and control (n = 87, aged 5.4-27.3 years) were recruited for the study. Full-field light-adapted electroretinograms using a Troland protocol with 10 flash strengths from -0.367 to 1.204 log photopic cd.s.m-2 were recorded in each eye. The photopic negative response amplitudes at Tmin and at t = 72 ms were compared between groups along with the a- and b-wave values. RESULTS There were no significant interactions between groups for the Photopic Negative Response measures of amplitude or time (p > 0.30). There was a group interaction between groups and flash strengths for the b-wave amplitude as previously reported (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The photopic negative response results suggest that there are no significant differences in the summed retinal ganglion cell responses produced by a full-field stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Constable
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Irene O Lee
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Population Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fernando Marmolejo-Ramos
- Centre for Change and Complexity in Learning, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - David H Skuse
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Population Policy and Practice Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dorothy A Thompson
- The Tony Kriss Visual Electrophysiology Unit, Clinical and Academic Department of Ophthalmology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK.,UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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Cheng N, Pagtalunan E, Abushaibah A, Naidu J, Stell WK, Rho JM, Sauvé Y. Atypical visual processing in a mouse model of autism. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12390. [PMID: 32709898 PMCID: PMC7381655 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68589-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Human social cognition relies heavily on the processing of various visual cues, such as eye contact and facial expressions. Atypical visual perception and integration have been recognized as key phenotypes in individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and may potentially contribute to impediments in normal social development, a hallmark of ASD. Meanwhile, increasing studies on visual function in ASD have pointed to detail-oriented perception, which has been hypothesized to result from heightened response to information of high spatial frequency. However, mixed results of human studies have led to much debate, and investigations using animal models have been limited. Here, using BTBR mice as a model of idiopathic ASD, we assessed retinal stimulus processing by full-field electroretinogram and found impaired photoreceptor function and retina-based alterations mostly in the cone pathway. Using the optokinetic reflex to evaluate visual function, we observed robustly enhanced visual response to finer spatial details and more subtle contrasts at only higher spatial frequencies in the BTBR mice, under both photopic and scotopic conditions. These behavioral results, which are similar to findings in a subset of ASD patients, indicate a bias toward processing information of high spatial frequencies. Together, these findings also suggest that, while enhancement of visual behaviors under both photopic and scotopic conditions might be due to alterations in visual processing common to both rod and cone pathways, these mechanisms are probably downstream of photoreceptor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Cheng
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Eden Pagtalunan
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Centre for the Bachelor of Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Abdulrahman Abushaibah
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Centre for the Bachelor of Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jessica Naidu
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.,O'Brien Centre for the Bachelor of Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - William K Stell
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jong M Rho
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 4N1, Canada.,Departments of Neurosciences and Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Yves Sauvé
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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10
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Silverstein SM, Demmin DL, Schallek JB, Fradkin SI. Measures of Retinal Structure and Function as Biomarkers in Neurology and Psychiatry. Biomark Neuropsychiatry 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bionps.2020.100018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Light-Adapted Electroretinogram Differences in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2874-2885. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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12
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Balasco L, Provenzano G, Bozzi Y. Sensory Abnormalities in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Focus on the Tactile Domain, From Genetic Mouse Models to the Clinic. Front Psychiatry 2020; 10:1016. [PMID: 32047448 PMCID: PMC6997554 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.01016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory abnormalities are commonly recognized as diagnostic criteria in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as reported in the last edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-V). About 90% of ASD individuals have atypical sensory experiences, described as both hyper- and hypo-reactivity, with abnormal responses to tactile stimulation representing a very frequent finding. In this review, we will address the neurobiological bases of sensory processing in ASD, with a specific focus of tactile sensitivity. In the first part, we will review the most relevant sensory abnormalities detected in ASD, and then focus on tactile processing deficits through the discussion of recent clinical and experimental studies. In the search for the neurobiological bases of ASD, several mouse models have been generated with knockout and humanized knockin mutations in many ASD-associated genes. Here, we will therefore give a brief overview of the anatomical structure of the mouse somatosensory system, and describe the somatosensory abnormalities so far reported in different mouse models of ASD. Understanding the neurobiological bases of sensory processing in ASD mouse models may represent an opportunity for a better comprehension of the mechanisms underlying sensory abnormalities, and for the development of novel effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Balasco
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Giovanni Provenzano
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Yuri Bozzi
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
- CNR Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy
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Youssef P, Nath S, Chaimowitz GA, Prat SS. Electroretinography in psychiatry: A systematic literature review. Eur Psychiatry 2019; 62:97-106. [PMID: 31553929 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2019.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to consolidate the available information on use of electroretinography as a diagnostic tool in psychiatry. The electroretinogram (ERG) has been found to have diagnostic utility in cocaine withdrawal (reduced light-adapted b-wave response), major depressive disorder (reduced contrast gain in pattern ERG), and schizophrenia (reduced a- and b-wave amplitudes). This review examines these findings as well as the applicability of ERG to substance use disorder, Alzheimer's disease, autism spectrum disorder, panic disorder, eating disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and medication use. While there have been promising results, current research suffers from a lack of specificity. Further research that quantifies anomalies in ERG present in psychiatric illness is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Youssef
- Bachelor of Health Sciences Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Siddharth Nath
- MD/PhD Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gary A Chaimowitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Forensic Psychiatry Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sebastien S Prat
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Forensic Psychiatry Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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14
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Zhang X, Piano I, Messina A, D'Antongiovanni V, Crò F, Provenzano G, Bozzi Y, Gargini C, Casarosa S. Retinal defects in mice lacking the autism-associated gene Engrailed-2. Neuroscience 2019; 408:177-190. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.03.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Hosak L, Sery O, Sadykov E, Studnicka J. Retinal abnormatilites as a diagnostic or prognostic marker of schizophrenia. Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub 2018; 162:159-164. [DOI: 10.5507/bp.2018.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Adams SA, Nasrallah HA. Multiple retinal anomalies in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2018; 195:3-12. [PMID: 28755877 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In addition to being a critical component of the visual system, the retina provides the opportunity for an accessible and noninvasive probe of brain pathology in neuropsychiatric disorders. Several studies have reported various retinal abnormalities in schizophrenia, some primary and others iatrogenic. There is now increasing evidence supporting the existence of retinal anomalies in schizophrenia across structural, neurochemical and physiological parameters. Here, we review the types of retinal pathology in schizophrenia and discuss how these findings may provide novel insights for future research into the neurodevelopmental neurobiology of this syndrome, and possibly as useful biomarkers. METHODS Using the keywords schizophrenia, retina, pathology, electroretinogram (ERG), and/or optical coherence tomography (OCT) on PubMed, all studies using the English language within 30years were reviewed. Methods were examined, and common themes were identified, tabulated, and discussed. RESULTS We classified the reports of retinal pathology into primary and secondary. The major secondary retinal pathology is related to the iatrogenic effects of a once widely prescribed first generation antipsychotic (thioridazine), which was found to be associated with retinal pigment deposits, decreased visual acuity, and suppression of dark adapted ERG responses. The primary retinal findings were obtained via different measures primarily using ERG, OCT, and microvascular imaging. The most consistent findings were 1) decreased ERG wave amplitudes, 2) reduced macular volume, 3) thinning of retinal nerve fiber layer, and 4) widened venule caliber. CONCLUSION The abnormal pathobiological findings of the retina in schizophrenia may represent an important avenue for elucidating some of the neurodevelopmental aberrations in schizophrenia. The well replicated retinal anomalies could serve as biomarkers for schizophrenia and perhaps an endophenotype that may help identify at-risk individuals and to facilitate early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selin A Adams
- Resident in Psychiatry, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Henry A Nasrallah
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1438 South Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States.
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Abstract
It has been suggested that attenuated adaptation to visual stimuli in autism is the result of atypical perceptual priors (e.g., Pellicano and Burr in Trends Cogn Sci 16(10):504-510, 2012. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2012.08.009 ). This study investigated adaptation to color in autistic adults, measuring both strength of afterimage and the influence of top-down knowledge. We found no difference in color afterimage strength between autistic and typical adults. Effects of top-down knowledge on afterimage intensity shown by Lupyan (Acta Psychol 161:117-130, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2015.08.006 ) were not replicated for either group. This study finds intact color adaptation in autistic adults. This is in contrast to findings of attenuated adaptation to faces and numerosity in autistic children. Future research should investigate the possibility of developmental differences in adaptation and further examine top-down effects on adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Maule
- The Sussex Colour Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Pevensey II 5B7, Brighton, BN1 9QH UK
| | - Kirstie Stanworth
- The Sussex Colour Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Pevensey II 5B7, Brighton, BN1 9QH UK
| | - Elizabeth Pellicano
- Centre for Research in Autism and Education (CRAE), UCL Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anna Franklin
- The Sussex Colour Group, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Pevensey II 5B7, Brighton, BN1 9QH UK
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Dai H, Jackson CR, Davis GL, Blakely RD, McMahon DG. Is dopamine transporter-mediated dopaminergic signaling in the retina a noninvasive biomarker for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder? A study in a novel dopamine transporter variant Val559 transgenic mouse model. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 9:38. [PMID: 29281965 PMCID: PMC5745861 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9215-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dopamine (DA) is a critical neuromodulator in the retina. Disruption of retinal DA synthesis and signaling significantly attenuates light-adapted, electroretinogram (ERG) responses, as well as contrast sensitivity and acuity. As these measures can be detected noninvasively, they may provide opportunities to detect disease processes linked to perturbed DA signaling. Recently, we identified a rare, functional DA transporter (DAT, SLC6A3) coding substitution, Ala559Val, in subjects with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), demonstrating that DAT Val559 imparts anomalous DA efflux (ADE) with attendant physiological, pharmacological, and behavioral phenotypes. To understand the broader impact of ADE on ADHD, noninvasive measures sensitive to DAT reversal are needed. Methods Here, we explored this question through ERG-based analysis of retinal light responses, as well as HPLC measurements of retinal DA in DAT Val559 mice. Results Male mice homozygous (HOM) for the DAT Val559 variant demonstrated increased, light-adapted ERG b-wave amplitudes compared to wild type (WT) and heterozygous (HET) mice, whereas dark-adapted responses were indistinguishable across genotypes. The elevated amplitude of the photopic light responses in HOM mice could be mimicked in WT mice by applying D1 and D4 DA receptor agonists and suppressed in HOM mice by introducing D4 antagonist, supporting elevated retinal DA signaling arising from ADE. Following the challenge with amphetamine, WT exhibited an increase in light-adapted response amplitudes, while HOM did not. Total retinal DA content was similar across genotypes. Interestingly, female DAT Val559 HOM animals revealed no significant difference in photopic ERG responses when compared with WT and HET littermates. Conclusions These data reveal that noninvasive, in vivo evaluation of retinal responses to light can reveal physiological signatures of ADE, suggesting a possible approach to the segregation of neurobehavioral disorders based on the DAT-dependent control of DA signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Dai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Box 35-1634 Station B, Nashville, TN, 37235-1634, USA
| | - Chad R Jackson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Box 35-1634 Station B, Nashville, TN, 37235-1634, USA.,Present address: Defense Threat Reduction Agency, 8211 Terminal Road, Lorton, VA, 22079, USA
| | - Gwynne L Davis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine and Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL, 33458, USA
| | - Randy D Blakely
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine and Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL, 33458, USA
| | - Douglas G McMahon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Box 35-1634 Station B, Nashville, TN, 37235-1634, USA.
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Nguyen CTO, Hui F, Charng J, Velaedan S, van Koeverden AK, Lim JKH, He Z, Wong VHY, Vingrys AJ, Bui BV, Ivarsson M. Retinal biomarkers provide "insight" into cortical pharmacology and disease. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 175:151-177. [PMID: 28174096 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The retina is an easily accessible out-pouching of the central nervous system (CNS) and thus lends itself to being a biomarker of the brain. More specifically, the presence of neuronal, vascular and blood-neural barrier parallels in the eye and brain coupled with fast and inexpensive methods to quantify retinal changes make ocular biomarkers an attractive option. This includes its utility as a biomarker for a number of cerebrovascular diseases as well as a drug pharmacology and safety biomarker for the CNS. It is a rapidly emerging field, with some areas well established, such as stroke risk and multiple sclerosis, whereas others are still in development (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, psychological disease and cortical diabetic dysfunction). The current applications and future potential of retinal biomarkers, including potential ways to improve their sensitivity and specificity are discussed. This review summarises the existing literature and provides a perspective on the strength of current retinal biomarkers and their future potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine T O Nguyen
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Flora Hui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason Charng
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shajan Velaedan
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anna K van Koeverden
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeremiah K H Lim
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zheng He
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vickie H Y Wong
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Algis J Vingrys
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bang V Bui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Magnus Ivarsson
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Full-field electroretinogram in autism spectrum disorder. Doc Ophthalmol 2016; 132:83-99. [DOI: 10.1007/s10633-016-9529-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Tebartz van Elst L, Bach M, Blessing J, Riedel A, Bubl E. Normal Visual Acuity and Electrophysiological Contrast Gain in Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Hum Neurosci 2015; 9:460. [PMID: 26379525 PMCID: PMC4549567 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A common neurodevelopmental disorder, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is defined by specific patterns in social perception, social competence, communication, highly circumscribed interests, and a strong subjective need for behavioral routines. Furthermore, distinctive features of visual perception, such as markedly reduced eye contact and a tendency to focus more on small, visual items than on holistic perception, have long been recognized as typical ASD characteristics. Recent debate in the scientific community discusses whether the physiology of low-level visual perception might explain such higher visual abnormalities. While reports of this enhanced, "eagle-like" visual acuity contained methodological errors and could not be substantiated, several authors have reported alterations in even earlier stages of visual processing, such as contrast perception and motion perception at the occipital cortex level. Therefore, in this project, we have investigated the electrophysiology of very early visual processing by analyzing the pattern electroretinogram-based contrast gain, the background noise amplitude, and the psychophysical visual acuities of participants with high-functioning ASD and controls with equal education. Based on earlier findings, we hypothesized that alterations in early vision would be present in ASD participants. This study included 33 individuals with ASD (11 female) and 33 control individuals (12 female). The groups were matched in terms of age, gender, and education level. We found no evidence of altered electrophysiological retinal contrast processing or psychophysical measured visual acuities. There appears to be no evidence for abnormalities in retinal visual processing in ASD patients, at least with respect to contrast detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludger Tebartz van Elst
- Section for Experimental Neuropsychiatry, Department for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Bach
- Section Visual Function, Eye Center, University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Julia Blessing
- Section for Experimental Neuropsychiatry, Department for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Riedel
- Section for Experimental Neuropsychiatry, Department for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Emanuel Bubl
- Section for Experimental Neuropsychiatry, Department for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
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22
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Lavoie J, Hébert M, Beaulieu JM. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 overexpression replicates electroretinogram anomalies of offspring at high genetic risk for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2014; 76:93-100. [PMID: 24138923 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2013.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroretinogram (ERG) anomalies occur in patients with psychiatric disorders and represent potential biomarkers for diagnosis. For instance, decreased rod ERG (b-wave amplitude at Vmax) is a biological endophenotype in young offspring at high genetic risk (HR) for schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD). Also, a decrease in cone a-wave and rod a- and b- wave was observed in SZ patients. However, the biological underpinning of these anomalies remains unknown. Several genetic variants associated with enhanced risk for SZ and/or BD can activate glycogen synthase kinase-3 isozymes (GSK3α and β). Here we examined the potential contribution of GSK3α and β in the modulation of the ERG. METHODS Cone and rod ERGs were recorded in mice having increased (prpGSK3β mice) or reduced (GSK3β(+/-) mice) GSK3β expression and in GSK3α knockout (KO) mice. RESULTS In prpGSK3β mice, we observed a decrease in rod b-wave amplitude at Vmax, whereas enhanced b-wave amplitude at Vmax was found in GSK3β(+/-) mice. An increase in cone a- and b-wave amplitude at Vmax and in rod b-wave amplitude at Vmax was observed in GSK3α-KO mice. CONCLUSIONS GSK3 expression modulates some ERG parameters. The phenotype observed in prpGSK3β mice is consistent with observations made in HRs. ERG anomalies observed in GSK3β(+/-) and GSK3α-KO mice confirm an association between the rod and cone b-wave amplitude and the expression of GSK3 isozymes. Changes in GSK3 expression or activity may explain some ERG anomalies in HRs and patients, thus supporting the biological validity of ERG measurements as a valuable biomarker for psychiatric research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joëlle Lavoie
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Canada; Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology, Quebec City, Canada; Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Marc Hébert
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Canada; Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Jean-Martin Beaulieu
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Canada; Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology, Quebec City, Canada.
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23
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Lavoie J, Illiano P, Sotnikova TD, Gainetdinov RR, Beaulieu JM, Hébert M. The electroretinogram as a biomarker of central dopamine and serotonin: potential relevance to psychiatric disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2014; 75:479-86. [PMID: 23305992 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2012.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunctions in brain dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission are believed to be involved in the etiology of psychiatric disorders, and electroretinogram (ERG) anomalies have been reported in psychiatric patients. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether ERG anomalies could result from central dopamine or serotonin dysfunctions or from changes in the retinal bioavailability of these neurotransmitters. METHOD Photopic and scotopic ERGs were recorded in R439H tryptophan hydroxylase 2 knockin (Tph2-KI) mice that have an approximately 80% decrease in brain serotonin and dopamine transporter knockout (DAT-KO) mice showing a fivefold increase in brain extracellular dopamine. Dopamine and serotonin retinal and striatal tissue content were also measured. The role of dopamine D1 receptors (D1R) and D2 receptors (D2R) in the ERG responses was evaluated in D1R-KO and D2R-KO mice. RESULTS An increase in photopic b-wave implicit time was observed in Tph2-KI mice (wildtype = 24.25 msec, KI = 25.22 msec; p = .011). The DAT-KO mice showed a decrease in rod sensitivity (wildtype =-1.97 log units, KO =-1.81 log units; p = .014). In contrast to remarkable alterations in brain levels, no changes in dopamine and serotonin retinal content were found in DAT-KO and Tph2-KI mice, respectively. The D1R-KO mice showed anomalies in photopic and scotopic maximal amplitude, whereas D2R-KO mice showed higher oscillatory potentials relative contribution to the b-wave amplitude. CONCLUSION Alterations in central dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission can affect the ERG responses. The ERG anomalies reported in psychiatric disorders might serve as biomarkers of central monoaminergic dysfunction, thus promoting ERG measurements as a useful tool in psychiatric research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joëlle Lavoie
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Placido Illiano
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Tatyana D Sotnikova
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Raul R Gainetdinov
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Jean-Martin Beaulieu
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marc Hébert
- Department of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.
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DeLuca GC, Kimball SM, Kolasinski J, Ramagopalan SV, Ebers GC. Review: the role of vitamin D in nervous system health and disease. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2014; 39:458-84. [PMID: 23336971 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D and its metabolites have pleomorphic roles in both nervous system health and disease. Animal models have been paramount in contributing to our knowledge and understanding of the consequences of vitamin D deficiency on brain development and its implications for adult psychiatric and neurological diseases. The conflation of in vitro, ex vivo, and animal model data provide compelling evidence that vitamin D has a crucial role in proliferation, differentiation, neurotrophism, neuroprotection, neurotransmission, and neuroplasticity. Vitamin D exerts its biological function not only by influencing cellular processes directly, but also by influencing gene expression through vitamin D response elements. This review highlights the epidemiological, neuropathological, experimental and molecular genetic evidence implicating vitamin D as a candidate in influencing susceptibility to a number of psychiatric and neurological diseases. The strength of evidence varies for schizophrenia, autism, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and is especially strong for multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C DeLuca
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Clinical Neurology), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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25
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Lavoie J, Maziade M, Hébert M. The brain through the retina: the flash electroretinogram as a tool to investigate psychiatric disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 48:129-34. [PMID: 24121062 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Revised: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Investigating the living brain remains one of the major obstacles in psychiatry research in order to better understand the biological underpinning of brain disorders. Novel approaches are needed to study brain functions indirectly. Since it is part of the central nervous system, retinal functions as measured with the flash electroretinogram (ERG) may reflect the central dysfunctions reported in psychiatric disorders. This review describes the flash ERG anomalies reported in patients with psychiatric disorders such as seasonal affective disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder and drug addiction and discusses how changes in retinal functions might be used as biomarkers for psychiatric disorder as well as a potential aid to diagnosis in psychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joëlle Lavoie
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology and Cervico-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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26
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Matteucci A, Gaddini L, Macchia G, Varano M, Petrucci TC, Macioce P, Malchiodi-Albedi F, Ceccarini M. Developmental expression of dysbindin in Muller cells of rat retina. Exp Eye Res 2013; 116:1-8. [PMID: 23954924 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2013.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2013] [Revised: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Dysbindin, the product of the DTNBP1 gene, was identified by yeast two hybrid assay as a binding partner of dystrobrevin, a cytosolic component of the dystrophin protein complex. Although its functional role has not yet been completely elucidated, the finding that dysbindin assembles into the biogenesis of lysosome related organelles complex 1 (BLOC-1) suggests that it participates in intracellular trafficking and biogenesis of organelles and vesicles. Dysbindin is ubiquitous and in brain is expressed primarily in neurons. Variations at the dysbindin gene have been associated with increased risk for schizophrenia. As anomalies in retinal function have been reported in patients suffering from neuropsychiatric disorders, we investigated the expression of dysbindin in the retina. Our results show that differentially regulated dysbindin isoforms are expressed in rat retina during postnatal maturation. Interestingly, we found that dysbindin is mainly localized in Müller cells. The identification of dysbindin in glial cells may open new perspectives for a better understanding of the functional involvement of this protein in visual alterations associated to neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Matteucci
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy.
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Reynell C, Harris JJ. The BOLD signal and neurovascular coupling in autism. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2013; 6:72-9. [PMID: 23917518 PMCID: PMC3989023 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2013.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurovascular coupling and energy use may be changed in autism. The relationship between neural activity and the BOLD signal may be altered in autism. Simply comparing the BOLD signal of control and autistic people may not be meaningful. Combined techniques will aid the interpretation of group differences in the BOLD signal.
BOLD (blood oxygen level dependent) fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) is commonly used to study differences in neuronal activity between human populations. As the BOLD response is an indirect measure of neuronal activity, meaningful interpretation of differences in BOLD responses between groups relies upon a stable relationship existing between neuronal activity and the BOLD response across these groups. However, this relationship can be altered by changes in neurovascular coupling or energy consumption, which would lead to problems in identifying differences in neuronal activity. In this review, we focus on fMRI studies of people with autism, and comparisons that are made of their BOLD responses with those of control groups. We examine neurophysiological differences in autism that may alter neurovascular coupling or energy use, discuss recent studies that have used fMRI to identify differences between participants with autism and control participants, and explore experimental approaches that could help attribute between-group differences in BOLD signals to either neuronal or neurovascular factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Reynell
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower St, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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Brief report: preliminary evidence of reduced sensitivity in the peripheral visual field of adolescents with autistic spectrum disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 43:1976-82. [PMID: 23229455 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-012-1730-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A number of studies have demonstrated atypical perception in individuals with ASD. However, the majority of these studies have presented stimuli to central vision. The aim of the study presented here was to test the sensitivity of peripheral vision in ASD. This was achieved by asking participants to detect brief flashes of light presented between 30 and 85 degrees away from fixation. We found that participants with ASD detected fewer ligh-flashes than the control participants. This deficit was more pronounced in the nasal hemifield than the temporal hemifield. We suggest that the imbalance between nasal and temporal hemifield sensitivity may contribute to the peripheral-field stimulation and lateral glances that are observed in ASD.
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Chu EMY, Kolappan M, Barnes TR, Joyce EM, Ron MA. A window into the brain: an in vivo study of the retina in schizophrenia using optical coherence tomography. Psychiatry Res 2012; 203:89-94. [PMID: 22917503 PMCID: PMC4024658 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2011.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and macular volume (MV) can be measured in vivo using optical coherence tomography (OCT) providing a "window into the brain". RNFL and MV are promising biomarkers in neurological diseases. This study explores the potential of RNFL and MV to detect axonal abnormalities in vivo in schizophrenia and their correlations with clinical features. OCT was performed in 49 patients (38 schizophrenia, 11 schizoaffective disorder) and 40 healthy controls matched for age and gender. Group comparisons were made between whole retina and quadrant RNFL thickness and MV using multi-level analyses. In patients, associations were sought between RNFL and MV with symptom severity (positive/negative). Patients and controls had similar whole retina RNFL thickness (p=0.86) and MV (p=0.64), but RNFL in the right nasal quadrant of the schizoaffective group was thinner than in the schizophrenia group (p=0.02). In patients, positive symptom severity was associated with smaller MV (right β=-0.54, p=0.02; left β=-0.49, p=0.04). Normal MV and RNFL thickness suggests unmyelinated axons in patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder remain unaffected. Longitudinal studies using higher resolution OCT will clarify whether progressive RNFL and MV changes occur and whether they can be used as state or trait markers in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvina May-Yin Chu
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University College London, Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
| | - Madhan Kolappan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University College London, Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | | | - Eileen M. Joyce
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University College London, Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Maria A. Ron
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University College London, Institute of Neurology, London, UK
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30
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Fornaro M, Bandini F, Ogliastro C, Cordano C, Martino M, Cestari L, Escelsior A, Rocchi G, Colicchio S, Perugi G. Electroretinographic assessment in major depressed patients receiving duloxetine: might differences between responders and non-responders indicate a differential biological background? J Affect Disord 2011; 135:154-9. [PMID: 21820182 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2011.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2011] [Revised: 07/13/2011] [Accepted: 07/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite intense research efforts, still too little is known about the biological determinants of depression, thus soliciting diverse study approaches. Among others, the electroretinography (ERG) has been proposed even as a putative proxy (retinal) measurement of central dopaminergic activity for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) both in drug-naïve patients and subjects receiving antidepressant treatments. Nonetheless, current evidences are merely preliminary, essentially considering just older classes of antidepressants, thus requiring confirmation studies even with newer agents as duloxetine. METHOD Twenty MDD subjects and 20 matched controls received duloxetine 60 mg/day for 12 weeks, being monitored both by standard ERG recording and by administration of the Hamilton scales for Depression and Anxiety and the Young Mania Rating Scale at baseline and week 12 (end of the study). RESULTS ERG mean rod b-wave amplitude significantly reduced from baseline to week 12 in those depressed subjects achieving final response (p=.024), decreasing from the highest rank values to the ones, substantially unmodified, seen among non-responders and controls. LIMITATIONS Small sample size and lack of multiple assessments. CONCLUSIONS At least some MDD patients responding to duloxetine might exhibit a peculiar ERG pattern, hypothetically indicating a specific biological background. If confirmed by larger-sampled studies, these results might shed further light in the understanding of the biological determinants of different subtypes of depression, ideally showing alternative patterns of response upon different treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Fornaro
- Department of Neurosciences, Ophthalmology and Genetics - Section of Psychiatry, University of Genova, Italy.
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Neuroligin-4 is localized to glycinergic postsynapses and regulates inhibition in the retina. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:3053-8. [PMID: 21282647 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1006946108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroligins (NL1-NL4) are postsynaptic adhesion proteins that control the maturation and function of synapses in the central nervous system (CNS). Loss-of-function mutations in NL4 are linked to rare forms of monogenic heritable autism, but its localization and function are unknown. Using the retina as a model system, we show that NL4 is preferentially localized to glycinergic postsynapses and that the loss of NL4 is accompanied by a reduced number of glycine receptors mediating fast glycinergic transmission. Accordingly, NL4-deficient ganglion cells exhibit slower glycinergic miniature postsynaptic currents and subtle alterations in their stimulus-coding efficacy, and inhibition within the NL4-deficient retinal network is altered as assessed by electroretinogram recordings. These data indicate that NL4 shapes network activity and information processing in the retina by modulating glycinergic inhibition. Importantly, NL4 is also targeted to inhibitory synapses in other areas of the CNS, such as the thalamus, colliculi, brainstem, and spinal cord, and forms complexes with the inhibitory postsynapse proteins gephyrin and collybistin in vivo, indicating that NL4 is an important component of glycinergic postsynapses.
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Brown CM, Austin DW. Autistic disorder and phospholipids: A review. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2011; 84:25-30. [PMID: 20970971 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2010.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Revised: 07/15/2010] [Accepted: 09/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulated phospholipid metabolism has been proposed as an underlying biological component of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autistic disorder (AD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This review provides an overview of fatty acid and phospholipid metabolism and evidence for phospholipid dysregulation with reference to the membrane hypothesis of schizophrenia. While there is evidence that phospholipid metabolism is at least impaired in individuals with AD, it has not been established whether phospholipid metabolism is implicated in causal, mechanistic or epiphenomenological models. More research is needed to ascertain whether breastfeeding, and specifically, the administration of colostrum or an adequate substitute can play a preventative role by supplying the neonate with essential fatty acids (EFAs) at a critical juncture in their development. Regarding treatment, further clinical trials of EFA supplementation are essential to determine the efficacy of EFAs in reducing AD symptomatology and whether supplementation can serve as a cost-effective and readily available intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Brown
- Swinburne Autism Bio-Research Initiative, Faculty of Life and Social Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia.
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33
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Glickman G. Circadian rhythms and sleep in children with autism. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2010; 34:755-68. [PMID: 19963005 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2009.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2009] [Revised: 11/17/2009] [Accepted: 11/18/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Retinal response to light in young nonaffected offspring at high genetic risk of neuropsychiatric brain disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2010; 67:270-4. [PMID: 19833322 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2009.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2009] [Revised: 08/02/2009] [Accepted: 08/03/2009] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In neuropsychiatric brain disorders, such as schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD), the biased effect of chronic drug therapy and the toxic effect of illness once installed constitute obstacles to the identification of valid biomarkers. Such biomarkers could lie at the level of retinal function where anomalies have already been reported in adults suffering from neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, we report a specific electroretinographic (ERG) anomaly in young nonaffected and nonmedicated offspring at high genetic risk (HR) of these disorders. METHODS Electroretinography was performed in 29 HR offspring having one parent affected by DSM-IV SZ or BD (mean age: 20.8 years, SD 4.4) and 29 healthy control subjects (mean age: 20.6 years, SD 4.2). The HRs' parents descended from multigenerational families affected by SZ or BD. RESULTS Rod ERG (b-wave amplitude at V(max)) in HRs was significantly lower than control subjects (p < .0001; effect size of -1.47), whereas the cone ERG V(max) showed no difference (p = .27). No effects of gender, age, and seasons of testing were observed. The anomaly in retinal response (rod V(max) b-wave amplitude) was observed independently of parents' diagnosis (SZ; p = .007, effect size of -1.09; BD: p < .0001, effect size of -1.88) and was present in both the younger and older HRs (effect size of -1.6 and -1.8, respectively). CONCLUSIONS A rod retinal response anomaly before the age of the disease incidence may represent an early and specific biomarker of risk with meaning for further genetic and prevention research.
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Cheliout-Heraut F, Lemaitre A, Lemorvan N, Khemliche H, Bour F, Elmassioui F. Étude normative de l’électrorétinogramme chez l’enfant. Application dans l’autisme infantile. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurenf.2008.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Abstract
An imbalance between excitation and inhibition in the cerebral cortex has been suggested as a possible etiology of autism. The DLX genes encode homeodomain-containing transcription factors controlling the generation of GABAergic cortical interneurons. The DLX1 and DLX2 genes lie head-to-head in 2q32, a region associated with autism susceptibility. We investigated 6 Tag SNPs within the DLX1/2 genes in two cohorts of multiplex (MPX) and one of simplex (SPX) families for association with autism. Family-based association tests showed strong association with five of the SNPs. The common alleles of rs743605 and rs4519482 were significantly associated with autism (P<0.012) in the first sample of 138 MPX families, with the latter remaining significant after correction for multiple testing (P(cor)=0.0046). Findings in a second sample of 169 MPX families not only confirmed the association at rs4519482 (P=0.034) but also showed strong allelic association of the common alleles at rs788172, rs788173 and rs813720 (P(cor)=0.0003-0.04). In the combined MPX families, the common alleles were all significantly associated with autism (P(cor)=0.0005-0.016). The GGGTG haplotype was over transmitted in the two MPX cohorts and the combined samples [P(cor)<0.05: P(cor)=0.00007 for the combined MPX families, Odds Ratio: 1.75 (95% CI: 1.33-2.30)]. Further testing in 306 SPX families replicated the association at rs4519482 (P=0.033) and the over transmission of the haplotype GGGTG (P=0.012) although P-values were not significant after correction for multiple testing. The findings support the presence of two functional polymorphisms, one in or near each of the DLX genes that increase susceptibility to, or cause, autism in MPX families where there is a greater genetic component for these conditions.
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37
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Background and history of autism in relation to vision care. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 79:391-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.optm.2007.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2006] [Revised: 06/13/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Steele MM, Al-Adeimi M, Siu VM, Fan YS. Brief report: A case of autism with interstitial deletion of chromosome 13. J Autism Dev Disord 2001; 31:231-4. [PMID: 11450821 DOI: 10.1023/a:1010759401344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A case of an 18-year-old male who meets the DSM-IV criteria for autistic disorder and borderline intelligence is described. Cytogenetic evaluation revealed a karyotype of 46, XY, del(13)(q14q22). The relevance of this case to the etiology of autism is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Steele
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London Health Sciences Centre, Canada.
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Abstract
Many cases of autism appear to be caused by several abnormal genes acting in concert. The literature on chromosomal aberrations in autism is reviewed, with a view to finding potential gene markers for the neuropsychiatric disorder. Most of the chromosomes have been implicated in the genesis of autism. However, aberrations on the long arm of Chromosome 15 and numerical and structural abnormalities of the sex chromosomes have been most frequently reported. These chromosomes appear to hold particular promise in the search for candidate genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gillberg
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Göteborg, Sweden
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40
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Abstract
In this paper the results of an extensive medical investigation of 25 children with childhood autism are presented and compared with those found in a group of non-autistic individuals matched for sex, age and intellectual level, all referred for developmental deviancy of unknown etiology. The examination included a psychiatric assessment and a neurological examination in addition to neurophysiological, chromosomal, metabolic and neuroimaging evaluation. In the clinical examination macrocephaly was found only among the autistic individuals, while the frequency of pathological cerebral CT and clinical parameters such as tendon reflexes and mobility problems was significantly greater in the control group. All the other pathological findings were found to occur with the same frequency in the two groups. Except for research purposes this study did not lend support to those who argue for extensive medical examinations for all children with autism. Based on the present findings, ordinary procedures for assessment of developmentally delayed children should be followed. This should include a systematic clinical neuropaediatric examination, an assessment of vision and hearing and a chromosome study, including that for fragile X.
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Affiliation(s)
- O H Skjeldal
- Department of Pediatrics, Rikshospitalet, University of Oslo, Norway.
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41
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Bailey A, Phillips W, Rutter M. Autism: towards an integration of clinical, genetic, neuropsychological, and neurobiological perspectives. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 1996; 37:89-126. [PMID: 8655659 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7610.1996.tb01381.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 369] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism constitutes one of the best validated child psychiatric disorders. Empirical research has succeeded in delineating the key clinical phenomena, in demonstrating strong genetic influences on the underlying liability, and in identifying basic cognitive deficits. A range of neurobiological abnormalities has also been found, although the replicability of specific findings has not been high. An understanding of the causal processes leading to autism, and accounting for the marked variability in its manifestations, requires an integration across these different levels of enquiry. Although this is not yet possible, a partial integration provides a useful strategy for identifying key research questions, the limitations of existing hypotheses, and future research directions that are likely to prove fruitful. The research findings for each research level are critically reviewed in order to consider how to move towards an integration across levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bailey
- MRC Child Psychiatry Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, London, U.K
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Nir I, Meir D, Zilber N, Knobler H, Hadjez J, Lerner Y. Brief report: circadian melatonin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, prolactin, and cortisol levels in serum of young adults with autism. J Autism Dev Disord 1995; 25:641-54. [PMID: 8720032 DOI: 10.1007/bf02178193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
An abnormal circadian pattern of melatonin was found in a group of young adults with an extreme autism syndrome. Although not out of phase, the serum melatonin levels differed from normal in amplitude and mesor. Marginal changes in diurnal rhythms of serum TSH and possibly prolactin were also recorded. Subjects with seizures tended to have an abnormal pattern of melatonin correlated with EEG changes. In others, a parallel was evidenced between thyroid function and impairment in verbal communication. There appears to be a tendency for various types of neuroendocrinological abnormalities in autistics, and melatonin, as well as possibly TSH and perhaps prolactin, could serve as biochemical variables of the biological parameters of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Nir
- Eitanim Psychiatric Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
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Abstract
Concentrations of melatonin in overnight and first-voiding urine samples from 10 people with autism, 15 parents, 1 grandparent, 9 sibs without autism, and 10 healthy, unrelated volunteers, were measured by radioimmunoassay. Those with autism had significantly higher melatonin concentrations in the first voiding samples than controls. Groups did not differ in overnight melatonin concentrations. These preliminary results warrant replication and extension.
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44
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Wong V, Wong SN. Brainstem auditory evoked potential study in children with autistic disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 1991; 21:329-40. [PMID: 1938778 DOI: 10.1007/bf02207329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Brainstem auditory evoked potentials were compared in 109 children with infantile autism, 38 with autistic condition, 19 with mental retardation, and 20 normal children. Children with infantile autism or autistic condition had significantly longer brainstem transmission time than normal (p less than .001). Autistic features, rather than age, sex, or lower mentality, correlated with brainstem transmission time (p less than .0001). The autistic characteristics may be related to dysfunction of the brainstem which affects the processing of the sensory input through the auditory pathway. The brainstem lesion may be part of a generalized process of neurological damage that accounts for the deviant language, cognitive, and social development in the spectrum of autistic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Wong
- University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital
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45
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Chamberlain RS, Herman BH. A novel biochemical model linking dysfunctions in brain melatonin, proopiomelanocortin peptides, and serotonin in autism. Biol Psychiatry 1990; 28:773-93. [PMID: 2175218 DOI: 10.1016/0006-3223(90)90513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A novel biochemical model for autism is presented, which proposes that a subgroup of autistic individuals may have a hypersecretion of pineal melatonin that produces a cascade of biochemical effects including a corresponding hyposecretion of pituitary proopiomelanocortin (POMC) peptides and a hypersecretion of hypothalamic opioid peptides and serotonin (5-HT). The model is reviewed, and supporting animal and clinical research, is summarized. The first arm of the model suggests that increases in pineal melatonin results in hypersecretion of 5-HT in hypothalamus and blood. The second arm of the model indicates that hypersecretion of melatonin also inhibits the release of hypothalamic corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH). Hyposecretion of CRH may result in decreased release of both pituitary B-endorphin (B-E) and adrenocorticotrophin hormone (ACTH); this, in turn, may result in decreased plasma concentrations of B-E, ACTH, and cortisol. In autism, a genetically determined hypersecretion of hypothalamic B-E may further contribute to an inhibition of pituitary B-E because of negative feedback inhibition. Therefore, autism may reflect a dysfunction in the pineal-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis which, modulates POMC and 5-HT systems of the brain. This model is consistent with numerous clinical investigations implicating hypersecretion of brain 5-HT and opioid peptides in autism. The model may have heuristic importance in guiding future research in the biochemistry of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Chamberlain
- Brain Research Center, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, D.C. 20010
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46
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Jorde LB, Mason-Brothers A, Waldmann R, Ritvo ER, Freeman BJ, Pingree C, McMahon WM, Petersen B, Jenson WR, Mo A. The UCLA-University of Utah epidemiologic survey of autism: genealogical analysis of familial aggregation. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS 1990; 36:85-8. [PMID: 2333911 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.1320360116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
To assess familial aggregation of autism, 86 autistic subjects were linked to the Utah Genealogical Database. Kinship coefficients were estimated for all possible pairs of autistic subjects and then averaged. Fifty replicate sets of matched control subjects (86 members in each set) were drawn randomly from the database, and the average kinship coefficient was computed for all possible pairs of individuals in each set. The average kinship coefficient for the autistic subjects was approximately 1/1,000, while the average kinship coefficients for the 50 control groups ranged from 4/100,000 to 1.6./10,000. These results indicate a strong tendency for autism to cluster in families. When kinship was analyzed by specific degrees of relationship, it was shown that the familial aggregation of autism is confined exclusively to sib pairs and does not extend to more remote degrees of relationship. This finding indicates that a single-gene model is unlikely to account for most cases of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Jorde
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City 84132
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47
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gillberg
- Child Neuropsychiatry Centre, University of Göteborg, Sweden
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48
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Abstract
The neurochemistry of autism, the most well-validated childhood neuropsychiatric disorder, has been studied extensively over the past three decades. Autism is of interest neurochemically because it represents a relatively homogeneous disorder with a triad of social, communicative, and intellectual developmental disturbance. Because a sufficient animal model has been lacking and relatively few diagnosed people with autism have died, most investigation has been of peripheral fluids and tissues. The most consistent finding has been that over 25% of autistic children and adolescents are hyperserotonemic. However, after 29 years of investigation, the mechanism of hyperserotonemia has not been determined. Hyperserotonemia has been found to be familial. Elevated plasma norepinephrine has also been a replicated finding. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opiate activity has been found to be elevated in two studies. Plasma cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) has been found to be elevated in autistic children. A high rate of nonsuppression after dexamethasone and blunted or delayed growth hormone response to L-dopa have been found. Abnormal cell-mediated immunity has been replicated consistently in autism. Although several pharmacological trials have been conducted and shown promise in initial open trials, only "typical" antipsychotic drugs have shown replicable chronic ameliorating effects in double-blind trials. However, chronic neurotoxicity (tardive dyskinesia) has also been revealed. Findings of morphological changes in the cerebellum have been replicated. Findings in need of replication include diminished platelet function, increased baseline CSF homovanillic acid, decreased nerve cell adhesion molecule serum fragment, blunted prolactin response to fenfluramine, amelioration of symptoms by naltrexone and bromocriptine, reduced electroretinographic (ERG) b-wave amplitude, and morphological changes in the hippocampus, amygdala, and septal nuclei. In addition to refining and replicating past findings, future directions that may be fruitful include investigation of neurochemical aspects of platelet function, of interactions between monoaminergic systems, of phosphatidylinositides, and of pharmacological response to "atypical" antipsychotic agents and relatively selective serotonin receptor subtype agonists or antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Cook
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637
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49
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Abstract
Problems in the diagnosis of autism and other pervasive developmental disorders are reviewed. Modification and application of recent developments in neuroimaging, molecular genetics and population studies are presented. A prioritized list of needed investigations is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Burd
- Child Evaluation and Treatment Program, Medical Center Rehabilitation Hospital, Grand Forks, ND
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