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Dufault RJ, Adler KM, Carpenter DO, Gilbert SG, Crider RA. Nutritional epigenetics education improves diet and attitude of parents of children with autism or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. World J Psychiatry 2024; 14:159-178. [PMID: 38327893 PMCID: PMC10845225 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v14.i1.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unhealthy maternal diet leads to heavy metal exposures from the consumption of ultra-processed foods that may impact gene behavior across generations, creating conditions for the neurodevelopmental disorders known as autism and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with these disorders have difficulty metabolizing and excreting heavy metals from their bloodstream, and the severity of their symptoms correlates with the heavy metal levels measured in their blood. Psychiatrists may play a key role in helping parents reduce their ultra-processed food and dietary heavy metal intake by providing access to effective nutritional epigenetics education. AIM To test the efficacy of nutritional epigenetics instruction in reducing parental ultra-processed food intake. METHODS The study utilized a semi-randomized test and control group pretest-posttest pilot study design with participants recruited from parents having a learning-disabled child with autism or ADHD. Twenty-two parents who met the inclusion criteria were randomly selected to serve in the test (n = 11) or control (n = 11) group. The test group participated in the six-week online nutritional epigenetics tutorial, while the control group did not. The efficacy of the nutritional epigenetics instruction was determined by measuring changes in parent diet and attitude using data derived from an online diet survey administered to the participants during the pre and post intervention periods. Diet intake scores were derived for both ultra-processed and whole/organic foods. Paired sample t-tests were conducted to determine any differences in mean diet scores within each group. RESULTS There was a significant difference in the diet scores of the test group between the pre- and post-intervention periods. The parents in the test group significantly reduced their intake of ultra-processed foods with a pre-intervention diet score of 70 (mean = 5.385, SD = 2.534) and a post-intervention diet score of 113 (mean = 8.692, SD = 1.750) and the paired t-test analysis showing a significance of P < 0.001. The test group also significantly increased their consumption of whole and/or organic foods with a pre-intervention diet score of 100 (mean = 5.882, SD = 2.472) and post-intervention diet score of 121 (mean = 7.118, SD = 2.390) and the paired t-test analysis showing a significance of P < 0.05. CONCLUSION Here we show nutritional epigenetics education can be used to reduce ultra-processed food intake and improve attitude among parents having learning-disabled children with autism or ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee J Dufault
- College of Graduate Health Studies, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO 63501, United States
- Department of Research, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
| | - Katherine M Adler
- Department of Health Sciences, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT 06516, United States
| | - David O Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, United States
| | - Steven G Gilbert
- Department of Research, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- Department of Research, Institute of Neurotoxicology and Neurological Disorders, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
| | - Raquel A Crider
- Department of Statistics, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
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Bottema-Beutel K, Kapp SK, Sasson N, Gernsbacher MA, Natri H, Botha M. Anti-ableism and scientific accuracy in autism research: a false dichotomy. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1244451. [PMID: 37743979 PMCID: PMC10514488 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1244451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
It was recently argued that autism researchers committed to rejecting ableist frameworks in their research may sacrifice "scientifically accurate" conceptualizations of autism. In this perspective piece, we argue that: (a) anti-ableism vs. scientific accuracy is a false dichotomy, (b) there is no ideology-free science that has claim to scientific accuracy, and (c) autism science has a history of false leads in part because of unexamined ableist ideologies that undergird researcher framings and interpretations of evidence. To illustrate our claims, we discuss several avenues of autism research that were promoted as scientific advances, but were eventually debunked or shown to have much less explanatory value than initially proposed. These research programs have involved claims about autism etiology, the nature of autism and autistic characteristics, and autism intervention. Common to these false leads have been ableist assumptions about autism that inform researcher perspectives. Negative impacts of this work have been mitigated in some areas of autism research, but these perspectives continue to exert influence on the lives of autistic people, including the availability of services, discourses about autism, and sociocultural conceptualizations of autistic people. Examining these false leads may help current researchers better understand how ableism may negatively influence their areas of inquiry. We close with a positive argument that promoting anti-ableism can be done in tandem with increasing scientific accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Bottema-Beutel
- Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Steven K. Kapp
- Department of Psychology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom
| | - Noah Sasson
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, United States
| | | | - Heini Natri
- The Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Monique Botha
- Psychology Department, Stirling University, Stirling, United Kingdom
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Dufault RJ, Crider RA, Deth RC, Schnoll R, Gilbert SG, Lukiw WJ, Hitt AL. Higher rates of autism and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in American children: Are food quality issues impacting epigenetic inheritance? World J Clin Pediatr 2023; 12:25-37. [PMID: 37034430 PMCID: PMC10075020 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i2.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the United States, schools offer special education services to children who are diagnosed with a learning or neurodevelopmental disorder and have difficulty meeting their learning goals. Pediatricians may play a key role in helping children access special education services. The number of children ages 6-21 in the United States receiving special education services increased 10.4% from 2006 to 2021. Children receiving special education services under the autism category increased 242% during the same period. The demand for special education services for children under the developmental delay and other health impaired categories increased by 184% and 83% respectively. Although student enrollment in American schools has remained stable since 2006, the percentage distribution of children receiving special education services nearly tripled for the autism category and quadrupled for the developmental delay category by 2021. Allowable heavy metal residues remain persistent in the American food supply due to food ingredient manufacturing processes. Numerous clinical trial data indicate heavy metal exposures and poor diet are the primary epigenetic factors responsible for the autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder epidemics. Dietary heavy metal exposures, especially inorganic mercury and lead may impact gene behavior across generations. In 2021, the United States Congress found heavy metal residues problematic in the American food supply but took no legislative action. Mandatory health warning labels on select foods may be the only way to reduce dietary heavy metal exposures and improve child learning across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee J Dufault
- Department of Research, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- College of Graduate Health Studies, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO 63501, United States
| | - Raquel A Crider
- Department of Research, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
| | - Richard C Deth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, United States
| | - Roseanne Schnoll
- Department of Research, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of CUNY, Brooklyn, NY 11210, United States
| | - Steven G Gilbert
- Department of Research, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- Department of Research, Institute of Neurotoxicology and Neurological Disorders, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
| | - Walter J Lukiw
- LSU Neuroscience Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
| | - Amanda L Hitt
- Food Integrity Campaign, Government Accountability Project, Columbia, WA 20006, United States
- Department of Legal, Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
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Legüe M. Relevancia de los mecanismos epigenéticos en el neurodesarrollo normal y consecuencias de sus perturbaciones. Revista Médica Clínica Las Condes 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rmclc.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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Abstract
This review presents the analysis and systematization of modern data on the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) development. Polyetiology and the multifactorial nature of ASD have been proved. The attempt has been made to jointly review and systematize current hypotheses of ASD pathogenesis at the molecular level from the standpoint of aberrant brain plasticity. The mechanism of glutamate excitotoxicity formation, the effect of imbalance of neuroactive amino acids and their derivatives, neurotransmitters, and hormones on the ASD formation have been considered in detail. The strengths and weaknesses of the proposed hypotheses have been analyzed from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine. The conclusion has been drawn on the leading role of glutamate excitotoxicity as a biochemical mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity accompanied by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. The mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity has also been traced at the critical moments of the nervous system development taking into account the influence of various factors of the internal and external environment. New approaches to searching for ASD molecular markers have been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Anashkina
- Senior Teacher, Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya; Senior Researcher, Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - E I Erlykina
- Professor, Head of the Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
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Dufault RJ, Wolle MM, Kingston HMS, Gilbert SG, Murray JA. Connecting inorganic mercury and lead measurements in blood to dietary sources of exposure that may impact child development. World J Methodol 2021; 11:144-159. [PMID: 34322366 PMCID: PMC8299913 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v11.i4.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-natal and post-natal chemical exposures and co-exposures from a variety of sources including contaminated air, water, soil, and food are common and associated with poorer birth and child health outcomes. Poor diet is a contributing factor in the development of child behavioral disorders. Child behavior and learning can be adversely impacted when gene expression is altered by dietary transcription factors such as zinc insufficiency or deficiency or by exposure to toxic substances permitted in our food supply such as mercury, lead, or organophosphate pesticide residue. Children with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders exhibit decreased or impaired PON1 gene activity which is needed by the body to metabolize and excrete neurotoxic organophosphate pesticides. In this current review we present an updated macroepigenetic model that explains how dietary inorganic mercury and lead exposures from unhealthy diet may lead to elevated blood mercury and/or lead levels and the development of symptoms associated with the autism and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorders. PON1 gene activity may be suppressed by inadequate dietary calcium, selenium, and fatty acid intake or exposures to lead or mercury. The model may assist clinicians in diagnosing and treating the symptoms associated with these childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. Recommendations for future research are provided based on the updated model and review of recently published literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee J Dufault
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- College of Graduate Health Studies, A.T. Still University, Kirksville, MO 63501, United States
| | - Mesay M Wolle
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, United States
| | - H M Skip Kingston
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, United States
| | - Steven G Gilbert
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, HI 96772, United States
- Institute of Neurotoxicology and Neurological Disorders, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
| | - Joseph A Murray
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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Chehbani F, Gallello G, Brahim T, Ouanes S, Douki W, Gaddour N, Cervera Sanz ML. The status of chemical elements in the blood plasma of children with autism spectrum disorder in Tunisia: a case-control study. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2020; 27:35738-35749. [PMID: 32601867 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09819-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders defined by a deficit in social interactions and the presence of restricted and stereotypical behaviors or interests. The etiologies of autism remain mostly unknown. Many genetic and environmental factors have been suspected. Among these environmental factors, exposure to several chemical elements has been previously studied. The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of trace elements in the blood plasma of children with ASD with typically developed children (TDC). The participants in this study consisted of 89 children with ASD (14 girls and 74 boys) and 70 TD children (29 girls and 41 boys). The levels of 33 chemical elements have been analyzed by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP-MS). We detected significant differences in the levels of eight elements between the two groups, among which there were three rare earth elements (REEs): Eu, Pr, and Sc (p = 0.000, p = 0.023, and p < 0.001 respectively); four heavy metals: Bi, Tl, Ti, and V (p = 0.004, p < 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001 respectively); and one essential element: Cu (p = 0.043). Children with ASD had higher levels of Er, Pr, Sc, Bi, Tl, Ti, and V, and lower levels of Cu in comparison with the TD group. The children exposed to passive smoking had lower levels of lead (Pb) compared with children without exposure (p = 0.018). Four elements (Cr, Er, Dy, and Pr) were negatively correlated to the severity of ASD. The level of Cu was significantly associated with autistic children's behavior (p = 0.014). These results suggest that children with ASD might have abnormal plasma levels of certain chemical elements (including Er, Pr, Sc, Bi, Tl, Ti, and V, and Cu), and some of these elements might be associated with certain clinical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fethia Chehbani
- Department of Psychiatry, Research Laboratory "Vulnerability to Psychotic Disorders LR 05 ES 10", Monastir University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia.
| | - Gianni Gallello
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Prehistory, Archaeology and Ancient History, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Takoua Brahim
- Unite of Child psychiatry, Monastir University Hospital, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sami Ouanes
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Wahiba Douki
- Department of Psychiatry, Research Laboratory "Vulnerability to Psychotic Disorders LR 05 ES 10", Monastir University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
- Biochemistry-Toxicology Laboratory, University Hospital of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Naoufel Gaddour
- Unite of Child psychiatry, Monastir University Hospital, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Studies have shown the three-member paraoxonase (PON) multigene family to be involved in the development of a large variety of diseases with an inflammatory component. Environmental factors such as lifestyle-related factors differ widely between populations and it is important to consider that their impacts may be exerted through the epigenetic mechanisms, which connect genes, the environment and disease development and are a potential therapeutic avenue. RECENT FINDINGS In the review period, very little was published on epigenetics of PON2 or PON3, mostly on their diagnostic value in cancer by measuring methylation levels of these genes. However, the picture is more promising with PON1. Here, several studies have linked the epigenetic regulation of PON1 to various metabolic processes and particularly to the development of several diseases, including stroke, heart disease, aortic valve stenosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. SUMMARY Studies into the epigenetic regulation of the PON family are in their infancy. However, recent studies linking epigenetic regulation of PON1 to disease development will encourage further research and open up the possibility for new potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolkarim Mahrooz
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Nisar S, Hashem S, Bhat AA, Syed N, Yadav S, Azeem MW, Uddin S, Bagga P, Reddy R, Haris M. Association of genes with phenotype in autism spectrum disorder. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 11:10742-70. [PMID: 31744938 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a genetic heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by impairments in social interaction and speech development and is accompanied by stereotypical behaviors such as body rocking, hand flapping, spinning objects, sniffing and restricted behaviors. The considerable significance of the genetics associated with autism has led to the identification of many risk genes for ASD used for the probing of ASD specificity and shared cognitive features over the past few decades. Identification of ASD risk genes helps to unravel various genetic variants and signaling pathways which are involved in ASD. This review highlights the role of ASD risk genes in gene transcription and translation regulation processes, as well as neuronal activity modulation, synaptic plasticity, disrupted key biological signaling pathways, and the novel candidate genes that play a significant role in the pathophysiology of ASD. The current emphasis on autism spectrum disorders has generated new opportunities in the field of neuroscience, and further advancements in the identification of different biomarkers, risk genes, and genetic pathways can help in the early diagnosis and development of new clinical and pharmacological treatments for ASD.
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Mahrooz A, Mackness M, Bagheri A, Ghaffari-Cherati M, Masoumi P. The epigenetic regulation of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) as an important enzyme in HDL function: The missing link between environmental and genetic regulation. Clin Biochem 2019; 73:1-10. [PMID: 31351988 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is an important antiatherogenic and antioxidant enzyme in the circulation that has been associated with adverse health outcomes particularly cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other metabolic disorders. PON1 is a highly promiscuous enzyme and can hydrolyse a large variety of substrates, however, detailed structure/function studies have concluded that the natural substrates for PON1 are lipophilic lactones. The interindividual variability in PON1 activity has been mainly attributed to genetic determinants; however, it appears that the contribution of epigenetics has been ignored as a result of the lack of adequate research. CONTENT Epigenetic processes, including the histone modifications in the PON1 gene, the methylation of CpG sites in the promoter region of the PON1 gene and the microRNA modulation of PON1 expression can be responsible for the under researched gap between the environmental and genetic regulation of PON1. Environmental factors, including diet, pollution and lifestyle-related factors widely differ between individuals and populations and can cause large differences in the distribution of PON1 and it is important to note that their effects may be exerted through the epigenetic processes. This review discusses and emphasizes the importance of the epigenetic regulation of PON1 as a less-studied subject to highlight future research landscapes. SUMMARY Epigenetic regulation is known as an important contributor to the pathogenesis of human diseases, particularly multifactorial diseases such as CVD, which is life-threatening. Due to the importance of PON1 in the functionality of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and its association with CVD, further explorations of its epigenetic regulation using advanced methods such as Methyl-Seq may lead to the identification of new epigenetic contributors that in turn may lead to targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolkarim Mahrooz
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Mike Mackness
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Abouzar Bagheri
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghaffari-Cherati
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Parisa Masoumi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Khan F, Momtaz S, Abdollahi M. The relationship between mercury exposure and epigenetic alterations regarding human health, risk assessment and diagnostic strategies. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2019; 52:37-47. [PMID: 30732897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to the environmental toxicants poses a serious threat to human health. The extent of exposure and the development of diseases are interrelated with each other. Chronic exposure to mercury (Hg) increases the risk of developing serious human disorders from embryo to adulthood. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this review is to highlight the most common human disorders induced by Hg exposure on the basis of epigenetic mechanisms. A growing body of evidence shows that Hg exposure leads to alterations in the epigenetic markers. METHODS We performed an organized search of the available literature using PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, Reaxys, EMBASE and Scopus databases. All the relevant citations, including research and review articles in English were evaluated. The search terms included mercury, Hg, epigenetics, epigenetic alterations, DNA methylation, histone modifications, microRNAs (miRNAs), and risk assessment. RESULTS Data on human toxicity due to Hg exposure shows broad variations in terms of chemical nature, doses, and the rate of exposure. Hg consumption either via foods or environmental sources may create deleterious health effects on various physiological systems at least partially through an epigenetic mechanism. CONCLUSION Hg exposure could trigger epigenetic alterations, hence leading to various human disorders including reduced newborn cerebellum size, adverse behavioral outcomes, atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Similarly, in adults, occupational Hg exposure has been associated with an increased risk of autoimmunity. It has been revealed that miRNAs in the woman's cervix are a novel responder to maternal Hg exposure during pregnancy. Hg-induced epigenetic alterations analysis of kidney tissues showed a significant interruption in renal function. DNA methylation and histone post-translation modifications are predominant types of Hg epigenetic alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazlullah Khan
- Toxicology and Diseases Group, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeideh Momtaz
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran; Toxicology and Diseases Group, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abdollahi
- Toxicology and Diseases Group, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Svisco E, Byker Shanks C, Ahmed S, Bark K. Variation of Adolescent Snack Food Choices and Preferences along a Continuum of Processing Levels: The Case of Apples. Foods 2019; 8:E50. [PMID: 30717139 DOI: 10.3390/foods8020050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Food processing is used for transforming whole food ingredients into food commodities or edible products. The level of food processing occurs along a continuum from unprocessed to minimally processed, processed, and ultra-processed. Unprocessed foods use little to no processing and have zero additives. Minimally processed foods use finite processing techniques, including drying, freezing, etc., to make whole food ingredients more edible. Processed foods combine culinary ingredients with whole foods using processing and preservation techniques. Ultra-processed foods are manufactured using limited whole food ingredients and a large number of additives. Ultra-processed snack foods are increasing in food environments globally with detrimental implications for human health. This research characterizes the choices, consumption, and taste preferences of adolescents who were offered apple snack food items that varied along a processing level continuum (unprocessed, minimally processed, processed, and ultra-processed). A cross-sectional study was implemented in four elementary school classrooms utilizing a buffet of apple snack food items from the aforementioned four food processing categories. A survey was administered to measure students’ taste acceptance of the snacks. The study found that the students selected significantly (p < 0.0001) greater quantities of ultra-processed snack foods (M = 2.20 servings, SD = 1.23) compared to minimally processed (M = 0.56 servings, SD = 0.43) and unprocessed (M = 0.70 servings, SD = 0.37) snack foods. The students enjoyed the taste of ultra-processed snack foods (M = 2.72, SD = 0.66) significantly more (p < 0.0001) than minimally processed (M = 1.92, SD = 1.0) and unprocessed (M = 2.32, SD = 0.9) snack foods. A linear relationship was found between the selection and consumption quantities for each snack food item (R2 = 0.88). In conclusion, it was found that as processing levels increase in apple snack foods, they become more appealing and more heavily consumed by elementary school students. If applied broadly to snack foods, this conclusion presents one possible explanation regarding the high level of diet-related diseases and nutrient deficiencies across adolescents in America. Food and nutrition education, food product development, and marketing efforts are called upon to improve adolescent food choices and make less-processed snack food options more appealing and accessible to diverse consumers.
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Mishra J, Kaur H, Ganguli AK, Kaur N. Fluorescent chemosensor based on urea/thiourea moiety for sensing of Hg(II) ions in an aqueous medium with high sensitivity and selectivity: A comparative account on effect of molecular architecture on chemosensing. J Mol Struct 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2018.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Ijare OB, Baskin DS, Sharpe MA, Pichumani K. Metabolism of fructose in B-cells: A 13C NMR spectroscopy based stable isotope tracer study. Anal Biochem 2018; 552:110-117. [PMID: 29654744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Earlier studies on glucose metabolism in B-cells suggested an active TCA cycle in both naïve B cells and differentiated IgA plasma cells. Glycolysis was shown to be more active in IgA plasma cells than naïve B-cells. There have been no reports on the metabolism of fructose in B-cells. Fructose is a major sugar present in the western diet. Thus, we have investigated the metabolism of fructose in B-cells including the effect of glucose on the metabolism of fructose. In this study, using 13C NMR spectroscopy and [U-13C]fructose and [U-13C]glucose as stable 13C isotope tracers, we investigated the metabolic fate of fructose and glucose in B-cells. B-cells showed mitochondrial oxidation of fructose when administered alone, but showed diminished oxidation of fructose in the presence of glucose. On the other hand, fructose did not significantly affect the mitochondrial metabolism of glucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkar B Ijare
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital and Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - David S Baskin
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital and Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martyn A Sharpe
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital and Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Kumar Pichumani
- Kenneth R. Peak Brain and Pituitary Tumor Treatment Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital and Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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15
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Good P. Evidence the U.S. autism epidemic initiated by acetaminophen (Tylenol) is aggravated by oral antibiotic amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) and now exponentially by herbicide glyphosate (Roundup). Clin Nutr ESPEN 2018; 23:171-183. [PMID: 29460795 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2017] [Revised: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Because certain hereditary diseases show autistic behavior, and autism often runs in families, researchers seek genes underlying the pathophysiology of autism, thus core behaviors. Other researchers argue environmental factors are decisive, citing compelling evidence of an autism epidemic in the United States beginning about 1980. Recognition that environmental factors influence gene expression led to synthesis of these views - an 'epigenetic epidemic' provoked by pervasive environmental agents altering expression of vulnerable genes, inducing characteristic autistic biochemistries in many mothers and infants. Two toxins most implicated in the U.S. autism epidemic are analgesic/antipyretic acetaminophen (Tylenol) and oral antibiotic amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin). Recently herbicide glyphosate (Roundup) was exponentially implicated. What do these toxins have in common? Acetaminophen depletes sulfate and glutathione required to detoxify it. Oral antibiotics kill and glyphosate inhibits intestinal bacteria that synthesize methionine (precursor of sulfate and glutathione, and required to methylate DNA), bacteria that synthesize tryptophan (sole precursor of neuroinhibitor serotonin), and bacteria that restrain ammonia-generating anaerobes. Sulfate plus glutathione normally sulfate fetal adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone to DHEAS - major precursor of placental/postnatal estrogens. Glyphosate (and heavy metals) also inhibit aromatase that turns androgens to estrogens. Placental/postnatal estrogens dehydrate/mature brain myelin sheaths, mature corpus callosum and left hemisphere preferentially, dilate brain blood vessels, and elevate brain serotonin and oxytocin. Stress-induced weak androgens and estrogen depletion coherently explain white matter asymmetry and dysconnection in autism, extreme male brain, low brain blood flow, hyperexcitability, social anxiety, and insufficient maternal oxytocin at birth to limit fetal brain chloride/water and mature GABA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Good
- Autism Studies, PO Box 1683, La Pine, OR 97739, USA.
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16
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Abstract
After the discovery of zinc deficiency in the 1960s, it soon became clear that zinc is essential for the function of the immune system. Zinc ions are involved in regulating intracellular signaling pathways in innate and adaptive immune cells. Zinc homeostasis is largely controlled via the expression and action of zinc "importers" (ZIP 1-14), zinc "exporters" (ZnT 1-10), and zinc-binding proteins. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties of zinc have long been documented, however, underlying mechanisms are still not entirely clear. Here, we report molecular mechanisms underlying the development of a pro-inflammatory phenotype during zinc deficiency. Furthermore, we describe links between altered zinc homeostasis and disease development. Consequently, the benefits of zinc supplementation for a malfunctioning immune system become clear. This article will focus on underlying mechanisms responsible for the regulation of cellular signaling by alterations in zinc homeostasis. Effects of fast zinc flux, intermediate "zinc waves", and late homeostatic zinc signals will be discriminated. Description of zinc homeostasis-related effects on the activation of key signaling molecules, as well as on epigenetic modifications, are included to emphasize the role of zinc as a gatekeeper of immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Wessels
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Martina Maywald
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Lothar Rink
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
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17
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Abstract
The link between nutrition and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is a complex developmental disorder manifesting itself in significant delays or deviation in interaction and communication, has provided a fresh point of view and signals that nutrition may have a role in the aetiology of ASD, as well as play an active role in treatment by alleviating symptoms. OBJECTIVE In this review study aimed at evaluating, with scientific and concrete proof, the current medical nutrition implementations on ASD, existing medical nutrition therapies have been addressed and their effects on ASD symptoms have been discussed in light of current research. METHODS We reviewed articles regarding the medical nutritional therapy of autism on current nutritional approaches selected from PubMed, Science Direct, EBSCO, and databases about autism and nutrition. RESULTS The research put forward that in individuals with ASD, while gluten-free/casein-free and ketogenic diets, camel milk, curcumin, probiotics, and fermentable foods can play a role in alleviating ASD symptoms, consumption of sugar, additives, pesticides, genetically modified organisms, inorganic processed foods, and hard-to-digest starches may aggravate symptoms. DISCUSSION Further prospective controlled trials with large sample sizes are needed before recommendations can be made regarding the ideal ASD diet. This review emphasizes the value of identifying current nutritional approaches specific to individuals with ASD and integrating their effects on symptoms to the conversation and presents suggestions for future research designed to identify medical nutrition therapies targeting this population to better understand the link between ASD and nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hande Cekici
- a Department of Nutrition and Dietetics , College of Health, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University , Merkez , Rize , Turkey
| | - Nevin Sanlier
- b Faculty of Health Science, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics , Biruni University , Zeytinburnu , İstanbul , Turkey
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18
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Geier DA, Kern JK, Geier MR. Increased risk for an atypical autism diagnosis following Thimerosal-containing vaccine exposure in the United States: A prospective longitudinal case-control study in the Vaccine Safety Datalink. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2017; 42:18-24. [PMID: 28595786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thimerosal is an organic-mercury (Hg)-containing compound (49.55% Hg by weight) historically added to many multi-dose vials of vaccine as a preservative and still added to some vaccines today. Concerns about the toxic effects from Thimerosal-containing childhood vaccines and the risk of an atypical autism diagnosis were evaluated in this study. METHODS A hypothesis-testing, prospective longitudinal, case-control study assessed exposure to Hg from Thimerosal-containing hepatitis B vaccines (TM-HepB) among cases diagnosed with atypical autism (n=164) and controls (n=15,216). Automated medical records for subjects born from 1991 to 2000 and continuously enrolled in the Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD) database were examined. RESULTS Cases diagnosed with atypical autism were statistically significantly more likely to have received greater overall and dose-dependent exposures to Hg from TM-HepB vaccines administered within the first month of life, first two months of life, and first six months of life than the controls. Similar phenomena were observed when cases and controls were separated by gender. CONCLUSIONS Routine childhood vaccination is an important public health tool to reduce infectious diseases. The present study provides important epidemiological evidence significantly associating increasing Hg exposure from Thimerosal-containing childhood vaccines and the subsequent risk of atypical autism diagnosis, and suggests that Thimerosal should be eliminated from vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Geier
- The Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc, Silver Spring, MD, 20905, United States; CoMeD, Inc, Silver Spring, MD, 20905, United States.
| | - Janet K Kern
- The Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc, Silver Spring, MD, 20905, United States; CoMeD, Inc, Silver Spring, MD, 20905, United States.
| | - Mark R Geier
- The Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc, Silver Spring, MD, 20905, United States; CoMeD, Inc, Silver Spring, MD, 20905, United States.
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19
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Meguid NA, Ghozlan SAS, Mohamed MF, Ibrahim MK, Dawood RM, Din NGBE, Abdelhafez TH, Hemimi M, Awady MKE. Expression of Reactive Oxygen Species-Related Transcripts in Egyptian Children With Autism. Biomark Insights 2017; 12:1177271917691035. [PMID: 28469396 PMCID: PMC5391985 DOI: 10.1177/1177271917691035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular basis of the pathophysiological role of oxidative stress in autism is understudied. Herein, we used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array to analyze transcriptional pattern of 84 oxidative stress genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell pools isolated from 32 autistic patients (16 mild/moderate and 16 severe) and 16 healthy subjects (each sample is a pool from 4 autistic patients or 4 controls). The PCR array data were further validated by quantitative real-time PCR in 80 autistic children (55 mild/moderate and 25 severe) and 60 healthy subjects. Our data revealed downregulation in GCLM, SOD2, NCF2, PRNP, and PTGS2 transcripts (1.5, 3.8, 1.2, 1.7, and 2.2, respectively;P < .05 for all) in autistic group compared with controls. In addition, TXN and FTH1 exhibited 1.4- and 1.7-fold downregulation, respectively, in severe autistic patients when compared with mild/moderate group (P = .005 and .0008, respectively). This study helps in a better understanding of the underlying biology and related genetic factors of autism, and most importantly, it presents suggested candidate biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis purposes as well as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa A Meguid
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Said A S Ghozlan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Magda F Mohamed
- Department of Chemistry (Biochemistry Branch), Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Marwa K Ibrahim
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reham M Dawood
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha G Bader El Din
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tawfeek H Abdelhafez
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Maha Hemimi
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mostafa K El Awady
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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20
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Moos WH, Maneta E, Pinkert CA, Irwin MH, Hoffman ME, Faller DV, Steliou K. Epigenetic Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Autism and Schizophrenia. Drug Dev Res 2016; 77:53-72. [PMID: 26899191 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders are a heterogeneous group of conditions that often share underlying mitochondrial dysfunction and biological pathways implicated in their pathogenesis, progression, and treatment. To date, these disorders have proven notoriously resistant to molecular-targeted therapies, and clinical options are relegated to interventional types, which do not address the core symptoms of the disease. In this review, we discuss emerging epigenetic-driven approaches using novel acylcarnitine esters (carnitinoids) that act on master regulators of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes and mitophagic pathways. These carnitinoids are actively transported, mitochondria-localizing, biomimetic coenzyme A surrogates of short-chain fatty acids, which inhibit histone deacetylase and may reinvigorate synaptic plasticity and protect against neuronal damage. We outline these neuroprotective effects in the context of treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter H Moos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,SRI Biosciences, A Division of SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Eleni Maneta
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carl A Pinkert
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.,Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Michael H Irwin
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Michelle E Hoffman
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Douglas V Faller
- Cancer Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kosta Steliou
- Cancer Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.,PhenoMatriX, Inc., Boston, MA, USA
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21
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Babaknejad N, Sayehmiri F, Sayehmiri K, Mohamadkhani A, Bahrami S. The Relationship between Zinc Levels and Autism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Iran J Child Neurol 2016; 10:1-9. [PMID: 27843460 PMCID: PMC5100031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autism is a complex behaviorally defined disorder.There is a relationship between zinc (Zn) levels in autistic patients and development of pathogenesis, but the conclusion is not permanent. MATERIALS & METHODS The present study conducted to estimate this probability using meta-analysis method. In this study, Fixed Effect Model, twelve articles published from 1978 to 2012 were selected by searching Google scholar, PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and Scopus and information were analyzed. I² statistics were calculated to examine heterogeneity. The information was analyzed using R and STATA Ver. 12.2. RESULTS There was no significant statistical difference between hair, nail, and teeth Zn levels between controls and autistic patients: -0.471 [95% confidence interval (95% CI): -1.172 to 0.231]. There was significant statistical difference between plasma Zn concentration and autistic patients besides healthy controls: -0.253 (95% CI: 0.498 to -0.007). Using a Random Effect Model, the overall Integration of data from the two groups was -0.414 (95% CI: -0.878 to -0.051). CONCLUSION Based on sensitivity analysis, zinc supplements can be used for the nutritional therapy for autistic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Babaknejad
- Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sayehmiri
- Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Kourosh Sayehmiri
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.; Department of Biostatistics, Research Center for Prevention of psychosocial impairment, University of Ilam, Ilam, Iran
| | - Ashraf Mohamadkhani
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somaye Bahrami
- Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
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22
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Meguid N, Anwar M, Zaki S, Kandeel W, Ahmed N, Tewfik I. Dietary Patterns of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Study Based in Egypt. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2015; 3:262-7. [PMID: 27275232 PMCID: PMC4877864 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2015.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM: In the hope to assist in tailoring individualized nutritional therapy, this study aimed to assess the nutritional status of autistic children. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 80 autistic children, divided into two groups: group 1 (aged 3- 5 years) and group 2 (aged 6-9 years). Diagnosis was performed based on the criteria for autistic disorder as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised and Autism Rating Scale. RESULTS: Socio-demographic data, anthropometric measurements and dietary intake patterns were recorded using a validated questionnaire. The daily intakes of calories and nutrients were converted to percentages of the Recommended Dietary Allowance or Dietary Reference Intake based on age- and gender-normalized DRIs. Plotting on the Egyptian sex-specific growth chart, BMI-z scores of both age groups were slightly overweight. Autistic children suffered inadequate intake of some micronutrients such as vitamin D and C, calcium, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron, some deficiencies were highly significant especially at older age. CONCLUSIONS: Tailoring a specially designed balanced diet with appropriate micronutrient supplementation may ameliorate the severity of autism symptoms and related abnormal behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa Meguid
- National Research Centre, Research on Children with Special Needs Department, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mona Anwar
- National Research Centre, Research on Children with Special Needs Department, Giza, Egypt
| | - Safaa Zaki
- National Research Centre, Child Health Department, Giza, Egypt
| | - Wafaa Kandeel
- National Research Centre, Biological Anthropology Department, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nihad Ahmed
- National Research Centre, Food Science and Nutrition Department, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ihab Tewfik
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Westminster, Life Science Department, London, United Kingdom
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23
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Vela G, Stark P, Socha M, Sauer AK, Hagmeyer S, Grabrucker AM. Zinc in gut-brain interaction in autism and neurological disorders. Neural Plast 2015; 2015:972791. [PMID: 25878905 PMCID: PMC4386645 DOI: 10.1155/2015/972791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing amount of research indicates that abnormalities in the gastrointestinal (GI) system during development might be a common factor in multiple neurological disorders and might be responsible for some of the shared comorbidities seen among these diseases. For example, many patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have symptoms associated with GI disorders. Maternal zinc status may be an important factor given the multifaceted effect of zinc on gut development and morphology in the offspring. Zinc status influences and is influenced by multiple factors and an interdependence of prenatal and early life stress, immune system abnormalities, impaired GI functions, and zinc deficiency can be hypothesized. In line with this, systemic inflammatory events and prenatal stress have been reported to increase the risk for ASD. Thus, here, we will review the current literature on the role of zinc in gut formation, a possible link between gut and brain development in ASD and other neurological disorders with shared comorbidities, and tie in possible effects on the immune system. Based on these data, we present a novel model outlining how alterations in the maternal zinc status might pathologically impact the offspring leading to impairments in brain functions later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Vela
- Zinpro Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, USA
- Autismo ABP, 64639 Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Peter Stark
- Zinpro Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, USA
| | | | - Ann Katrin Sauer
- WG Molecular Analysis of Synaptopathies, Neurology Department, Neurocenter of Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Simone Hagmeyer
- WG Molecular Analysis of Synaptopathies, Neurology Department, Neurocenter of Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Andreas M. Grabrucker
- WG Molecular Analysis of Synaptopathies, Neurology Department, Neurocenter of Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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24
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Dufault R, Berg Z, Crider R, Schnoll R, Wetsit L, Bulls WT, Gilbert SG, Kingston HMS, Wolle MM, Rahman GMM, Laks DR. Blood inorganic mercury is directly associated with glucose levels in the human population and may be linked to processed food intake. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 2. [PMID: 33889422 PMCID: PMC8059611 DOI: 10.15761/imm.1000134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: The goals of the study were (1) to determine the impact of inorganic mercury exposure on glucose homeostasis; and (2) to evaluate the effectiveness of two community-based interventions in promoting dietary changes among American Indian college students to reduce risk factors for Type-2 Diabetes including fasting glucose, insulin, and mercury levels, weight, and body mass index. Methods: To accomplish goal one, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) dataset was analyzed using a previously published method to determine if there is a relationship between inorganic blood mercury and fasting glucose. To accomplish goal two, ten college students were recruited and randomly assigned to a group receiving the online macroepigenetics nutrition course and the support group for eliminating corn sweeteners. Participants in both groups were assessed for diet patterns, weight, body mass index (BMI), fasting glucose, insulin, and mercury levels. The interventions were implemented over a 10-week period. Results: Analysis of the NHANES data (n=16,232) determined a direct relationship between inorganic mercury in blood and fasting glucose levels (p<0.001). The participants who took the online macroepigenetics nutrition intervention course significantly improved their diets (p<0.01), and fasting blood glucose levels (p<0.01) while having lower levels of inorganic mercury in their blood compared to the subjects in the group who eliminated corn sweeteners from their diet and participated in the support group. The trend in lower blood inorganic mercury was strong with p=0.052. The participants in the support group who eliminated corn sweeteners from their diet achieved significant weight loss (p<0.01) and reduced their body mass index (p<0.01). Conclusion: Total blood mercury levels may be influenced by dietary intake of highly processed foods and lower inorganic mercury levels are associated with lower fasting glucose levels. Alternative community-based interventions emphasizing the role food ingredients and toxic substances play in gene modulation and the development of diseases can result in significant dietary improvements and reductions in risk factors associated with type-2 diabetes. A healthier diet can be promoted among community members using a novel online nutrition course. Consumption of corn sweeteners may be a risk factor in the development of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee Dufault
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, Hawaii, USA.,Fort Peck Community College, Poplar, Montana, USA
| | - Zara Berg
- Fort Peck Community College, Poplar, Montana, USA
| | - Raquel Crider
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, Hawaii, USA.,Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Roseanne Schnoll
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, Hawaii, USA.,Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of City University of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Larry Wetsit
- Fort Peck Community College, Poplar, Montana, USA
| | | | - Steven G Gilbert
- Food Ingredient and Health Research Institute, Naalehu, Hawaii, USA.,Institute of Neurotoxicology and Neurological Disorders, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - H M Skip Kingston
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mesay Mulugeta Wolle
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - G M Mizanur Rahman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dan R Laks
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
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25
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Meguid NA, Kandeel WA, Wakeel KE, El-Nofely AA. Anthropometric assessment of a Middle Eastern group of autistic children. World J Pediatr 2014; 10:318-23. [PMID: 25515805 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-014-0510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 02/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth abnormalities are uniquely associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, the extent to which growth abnormalities are present has hardly been investigated. The current study aims to compare the differences in anthropometric parameters in a group of autistic Egyptian children and the healthy normal population. METHODS We recruited 100 children with ASD from the Outpatient Clinic for "Autistic Children" at the Medical Research Hospital of Excellence, National Research Centre in Cairo, Egypt. They were diagnosed by DSM-IV criteria of the American Psychiatric Association, Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised, and Childhood Autism Rating Scale. Of these children at age of 3-10 years, 71 were males and 29 females. Eight anthropometric parameters were assessed in view of data of the healthy Egyptians of pertinent sex and age. RESULTS Weight and body mass index increased because of a significant increase in subcutaneous fat thickness. This tendency with a probable decrease in muscle mass was more evident in male or in older children, likely resulting from sedentary life style and food selectivity. CONCLUSIONS The Z head circumference score and its variance significantly increased especially in males or older children, suggesting the relative overgrowth of the brain in a substantial percentage of Egyptian children with autism. We concluded that increased fat composition in Egyptian autistic children with decreased muscle mass necessitates tailoring a specially designed food supplementation program to ameliorate the severity of autism symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa A Meguid
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, National Research Centre (NRC), Cairo, Egypt,
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26
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Nevison CD. A comparison of temporal trends in United States autism prevalence to trends in suspected environmental factors. Environ Health 2014; 13:73. [PMID: 25189402 PMCID: PMC4177682 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-13-73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of diagnosed autism has increased rapidly over the last several decades among U.S. children. Environmental factors are thought to be driving this increase and a list of the top ten suspected environmental toxins was published recently. METHODS Temporal trends in autism for birth years 1970-2005 were derived from a combination of data from the California Department of Developmental Services (CDDS) and the United States Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Temporal trends in suspected toxins were derived from data compiled during an extensive literature survey. Toxin and autism trends were compared by visual inspection and computed correlation coefficients. Using IDEA data, autism prevalence vs. birth year trends were calculated independently from snapshots of data from the most recent annual report, and by tracking prevalence at a constant age over many years of reports. The ratio of the snapshot:tracking trend slopes was used to estimate the "real" fraction of the increase in autism. RESULTS The CDDS and IDEA data sets are qualitatively consistent in suggesting a strong increase in autism prevalence over recent decades. The quantitative comparison of IDEA snapshot and constant-age tracking trend slopes suggests that ~75-80% of the tracked increase in autism since 1988 is due to an actual increase in the disorder rather than to changing diagnostic criteria. Most of the suspected environmental toxins examined have flat or decreasing temporal trends that correlate poorly to the rise in autism. Some, including lead, organochlorine pesticides and vehicular emissions, have strongly decreasing trends. Among the suspected toxins surveyed, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, aluminum adjuvants, and the herbicide glyphosate have increasing trends that correlate positively to the rise in autism. CONCLUSIONS Diagnosed autism prevalence has risen dramatically in the U.S over the last several decades and continued to trend upward as of birth year 2005. The increase is mainly real and has occurred mostly since the late 1980s. In contrast, children's exposure to most of the top ten toxic compounds has remained flat or decreased over this same time frame. Environmental factors with increasing temporal trends can help suggest hypotheses for drivers of autism that merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia D Nevison
- Institute for Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309-0450, USA.
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Rahman GMM, Wolle MM, Fahrenholz T, Kingston HMS, Pamuku M. Measurement of mercury species in whole blood using speciated isotope dilution methodology integrated with microwave-enhanced solubilization and spike equilibration, headspace-solid-phase microextraction, and GC-ICP-MS analysis. Anal Chem 2014; 86:6130-7. [PMID: 24845130 DOI: 10.1021/ac501352d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
A biomonitoring method was developed for the determination of inorganic-, methyl-, and ethylmercury (Hg(2+), CH3Hg(+), and C2H5Hg(+), respectively) in whole blood by triple-spiking speciated isotope dilution mass spectrometry (SIDMS) using headspace (HS) solid-phase microextraction (SPME) in combination with gas chromatographic (GC) separation and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric (ICP-MS) detection. After spiking the blood sample with isotopically enriched analogues of the analytes ((199)Hg(2+), CH3(200)Hg(+) and C2H5(201)Hg(+)), the endogenous Hg species were solubilized in 2.0 mol L(-1) HNO3 and equilibrated with the spikes using a microwave-enhanced protocol. The microwaved sample was treated with a 1% (w/v) aqueous solution of sodium tetrapropylborate (buffered to pH 5.2), and the propylated Hg species were sampled in the HS using a Carboxen/polydimethylsiloxane-coated SPME fiber. The extracted species were thermally desorbed from the fiber in the GC injection port and determined by GC-ICP-MS. The analytes were quantified, with simultaneous correction for their method-induced transformation, on the basis of the mathematical relationship in triple-spiking SIDMS. The method was validated using a bovine blood standard reference material (SRM 966, Level 2). Analysis of human blood samples demonstrated the accuracy and reproducibility of the method, which can detect the Hg species down to 30 pg g(-1) in blood. The validity of the analytical results found for the blood samples was demonstrated using mass balance by comparing the sum of the concentrations of the individual Hg species with the total Hg in the corresponding samples; the latter was determined by isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) after decomposing the blood using EPA Method 3052 with single-spiking.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Mizanur Rahman
- Applied Isotope Technologies, 2403 Sidney Street, Suite 280, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15203, United States
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Yasuda H, Tsutsui T. Assessment of infantile mineral imbalances in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Int J Environ Res Public Health 2013; 10:6027-43. [PMID: 24284360 PMCID: PMC3863885 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10116027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Revised: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The interactions between genes and the environment are now regarded as the most probable explanation for autism. In this review, we summarize the results of a metallomics study in which scalp hair concentrations of 26 trace elements were examined for 1,967 autistic children (1,553 males and 414 females aged 0-15 years-old), and discuss recent advances in our understanding of epigenetic roles of infantile mineral imbalances in the pathogenesis of autism. In the 1,967 subjects, 584 (29.7%) and 347 (17.6%) were found deficient in zinc and magnesium, respectively, and the incidence rate of zinc deficiency was estimated at 43.5% in male and 52.5% in female infantile subjects aged 0-3 years-old. In contrast, 339 (17.2%), 168 (8.5%) and 94 (4.8%) individuals were found to suffer from high burdens of aluminum, cadmium and lead, respectively, and 2.8% or less from mercury and arsenic. High toxic metal burdens were more frequently observed in the infants aged 0-3 years-old, whose incidence rates were 20.6%, 12.1%, 7.5%, 3.2% and 2.3% for aluminum, cadmium, lead, arsenic and mercury, respectively. These findings suggest that infantile zinc- and magnesium-deficiency and/or toxic metal burdens may be critical and induce epigenetic alterations in the genes and genetic regulation mechanisms of neurodevelopment in the autistic children, and demonstrate that a time factor "infantile window" is also critical for neurodevelopment and probably for therapy. Thus, early metallomics analysis may lead to early screening/estimation and treatment/prevention for the autistic neurodevelopment disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yasuda
- La Belle Vie Research Laboratory, 8-4 Nihonbashi-Tomizawacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0006, Japan.
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Lahiri DK, Sokol DK, Erickson C, Ray B, Ho CY, Maloney B. Autism as early neurodevelopmental disorder: evidence for an sAPPα-mediated anabolic pathway. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:94. [PMID: 23801940 PMCID: PMC3689023 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by social skills and communication deficits and interfering repetitive behavior. Intellectual disability often accompanies autism. In addition to behavioral deficits, autism is characterized by neuropathology and brain overgrowth. Increased intracranial volume often accompanies this brain growth. We have found that the Alzheimer's disease (AD) associated amyloid-β precursor protein (APP), especially its neuroprotective processing product, secreted APP α, is elevated in persons with autism. This has led to the "anabolic hypothesis" of autism etiology, in which neuronal overgrowth in the brain results in interneuronal misconnections that may underlie multiple autism symptoms. We review the contribution of research in brain volume and of APP to the anabolic hypothesis, and relate APP to other proteins and pathways that have already been directly associated with autism, such as fragile X mental retardation protein, Ras small GTPase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and phosphoinositide 3 kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin. We also present additional evidence of magnetic resonance imaging intracranial measurements in favor of the anabolic hypothesis. Finally, since it appears that APP's involvement in autism is part of a multi-partner network, we extend this concept into the inherently interactive realm of epigenetics. We speculate that the underlying molecular abnormalities that influence APP's contribution to autism are epigenetic markers overlaid onto potentially vulnerable gene sequences due to environmental influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debomoy K. Lahiri
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN USA
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Deborah K. Sokol
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Craig Erickson
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical CenterCincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Balmiki Ray
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN USA
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Chang Y. Ho
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Bryan Maloney
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN USA
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
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Yasuda H, Kobayashi M, Yasuda Y, Tsutsui T. Estimation of autistic children by metallomics analysis. Sci Rep 2013; 3:1199. [PMID: 23383369 PMCID: PMC3563033 DOI: 10.1038/srep01199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 01/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Clarification of the pathogenesis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders is one of the challenges today. In this study, we examine scalp hair concentrations of 26 trace elements for 1,967 children with autistic disorders (1,553 males and 414 females). Five-hundred and eighty-four (29.7%), 347 (17.6%) and 114 (5.8%) subjects was found deficient in zinc, magnesium and calcium, respectively, and 2.0% or less in the other essential metals. The incidence rate of mineral deficiency was highly observed in infants aged 0-3 year-old. In contrast, 339 (17.2%), 168 (8.5%) and 94 (4.8%) individuals was found suffering from high burden of aluminium, cadmium and lead, and 2.8% or less from mercury and arsenic burden. These findings suggest that infantile zinc- and magnesium-deficiency and/or toxic metal burdens may epigenetically play principal roles as environmental factors in autistic disorders and that metallomics approach may lead to early screening and prevention of the neurodevelopment disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yasuda
- La Belle Vie Research Laboratory, 8-4 Nihonbashi-Tomizawacho , Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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Seneff S, Lauritzen A, Davidson R, Lentz-marino L. Is Encephalopathy a Mechanism to Renew Sulfate in Autism? Entropy 2013; 15:372-406. [DOI: 10.3390/e15010372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Geier DA, Kern JK, King PG, Sykes LK, Geier MR. Hair toxic metal concentrations and autism spectrum disorder severity in young children. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2012; 9:4486-97. [PMID: 23222182 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph9124486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2012] [Revised: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have found a higher body-burden of toxic metals, particularly mercury (Hg), among subjects diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in comparison to neurotypical controls. Moreover, Hg body-burden was associated with ASD severity. This cross-sectional study examined the potential correlation between hair toxic metal concentrations and ASD severity in a prospective cohort of participants diagnosed with moderate to severe ASD. The Institutional Review Board at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (Dallas, TX) approved the present study. Qualifying study participants (n = 18) were evaluated for ASD severity using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and quantitatively for arsenic, Hg, cadmium, lead, chromium, cobalt, nickel, aluminum, tin, uranium, and manganese using hair toxic element testing by Doctor's Data (a CLIA-approved laboratory). CARS scoring and hair toxic element testing were blinded to one another. Increasing hair Hg concentrations significantly correlated with increased ASD severity. In contrast, no significant correlations were observed between any other of the hair toxic metals examined and ASD severity. This study helps to provide additional mechanistic support for Hg in the etiology of ASD severity, and is supported by an increasing number of recent critical reviews that provide biological plausibility for the role of Hg exposure in the pathogenesis of ASDs.
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Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in communication and social behavior, and by repetitive behaviors. Although genetic factors might be largely responsible for the occurrence of autism they cannot fully account for all cases and it is likely that in addition to a certain combination of autism-related genes, specific environmental factors might act as risk factors triggering the development of autism. Thus, the role of environmental factors in autism is an important area of research and recent data will be discussed in this review. Interestingly, the results show that many environmental risk factors are interrelated and their identification and comparison might unveil a common scheme of alterations on a contextual as well as molecular level. For example, both, disruption in the immune system and in zinc homeostasis may affect synaptic transmission in autism. Thus, here, a model is proposed that interconnects the most important and scientifically recognized environmental factors. Moreover, similarities in how these risk factors impact synapse function are discussed and a possible influence on an already well described genetic pathway leading to the development of autism via zinc homeostasis is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas M Grabrucker
- WG Molecular Analysis of Synaptopathies, Neurology Department, Neurocenter of Ulm University Ulm, Germany
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Kim M, Bae M, Na H, Yang M. Environmental toxicants--induced epigenetic alterations and their reversers. J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev 2012; 30:323-367. [PMID: 23167630 DOI: 10.1080/10590501.2012.731959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics has been emphasized in the postgenome era to clarify obscure health risks of environmental toxicants including endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). In addition, mixed exposure in real life can modify health consequences of the toxicants. Particularly, some nutritional and dietary materials modify individual susceptibility through changes in the epigenome. Therefore, we focused on some environmental toxicants that induce epigenetic alterations, and introduced chemopreventive materials to reverse the toxicants-induced epigenetic alterations. Methodologically, we used global and specific DNA methylation as epigenetic end points and searched epigenetic modulators in food. We reviewed various epigenetic end points induced by environmental toxicants including alcohol, asbestos, nanomaterials, benzene, EDCs, metals, and ionizing radiation. The epigenetic end points can be summarized into global hypomethylation and specific hypermethylation at diverse tumor suppress genes. Exposure timing, dose, sex, or organ specificity should be considered to use the epigenetic end points as biomarkers for exposure to the epimutagenic toxicants. Particularly, neonatal exposure to the epimutagens can influence their future adult health because of characteristics of the epimutagens, which disrupt epigenetic regulation in imprinting, organogenesis, development, etc. Considering interaction between epimutagenic toxicants and their reversers in food, we suggest that multiple exposures to them can alleviate or mask epigenetic toxicity in real life. Our present review provides useful information to find new end points of environmental toxicants and to prevention from environment-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minju Kim
- Research Center for Cell Fate Control, College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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