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Margari A, De Agazio G, Marzulli L, Piarulli FM, Mandarelli G, Catanesi R, Carabellese FF, Cortese S. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sexual offending: a systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024:105687. [PMID: 38685290 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105687] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The relationship between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sexual offending (SO) is an overlooked issue, both in clinical practice and in research. Based on a pre-specified protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42024501598), we systematically searched Pubmed and Scopus, between January 1st, 1994 and January 12th, 2024, for articles related to SO in ASD. Study quality was assessed with study design-specific tools (Study Quality Assessment Tools, NHLBI, NIH). We found 19 relevant publications (five cross-sectional studies, two case-control studies, and 12 case reports). Seven of the studies were deemed of "good" quality, the rest as "fair". Included studies addressed three key aspects: 1) psychopathological characteristics of individuals with ASD that increase the risk of committing SO; 2) intervention strategies for individuals with ASD and SO; 3) involvement of individuals with ASD and SO in the justice system. Overall, while there is an increasing interest in this topic, more rigorous study designs, including randomised controlled trials, are needed to inform clinical practice and healthcare and social policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Margari
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Criminology and Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Gabriele De Agazio
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital "A. Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Maria Piarulli
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Mandarelli
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Criminology and Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Catanesi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Criminology and Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Felice Francesco Carabellese
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Criminology and Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK; Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York City, NY, USA; DiMePRe-J-Department of Precision and Rigenerative Medicine-Jonic Area, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
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2
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Parlatini V, Bellato A, Gabellone A, Margari L, Marzulli L, Matera E, Petruzzelli MG, Solmi M, Correll CU, Cortese S. A state-of-the-art overview of candidate diagnostic biomarkers for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2024; 24:259-271. [PMID: 38506617 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2024.2333277] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions and is highly heterogeneous in terms of symptom profile, associated cognitive deficits, comorbidities, and outcomes. Heterogeneity may also affect the ability to recognize and diagnose this condition. The diagnosis of ADHD is primarily clinical but there are increasing research efforts aiming at identifying biomarkers that can aid the diagnosis. AREAS COVERED We first discuss the definition of biomarkers and the necessary research steps from discovery to implementation. We then provide a broad overview of research studies on candidate diagnostic biomarkers in ADHD encompassing genetic/epigenetic, biochemical, neuroimaging, neurophysiological and neuropsychological techniques. Finally, we critically appraise current limitations in the field and suggest possible ways forward. EXPERT OPINION Despite the large number of studies and variety of techniques used, no promising biomarkers have been identified so far. Clinical and biological heterogeneity as well as methodological limitations, including small sample size, lack of standardization, confounding factors, and poor replicability, have hampered progress in the field. Going forward, increased international collaborative efforts are warranted to support larger and more robustly designed studies, develop multimodal datasets to combine biomarkers and improve diagnostic accuracy, and ensure reproducibility and meaningful clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Parlatini
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alessio Bellato
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Malaysia
- Mind and Neurodevelopment (MiND) Research Cluster, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Semenyih, Malaysia
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- DiBraiN-Department of Translational Biomedicine Neurosciences, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- DiMePRe-J-Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine-Jonic Area, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- DiBraiN-Department of Translational Biomedicine Neurosciences, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Emilia Matera
- DiBraiN-Department of Translational Biomedicine Neurosciences, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | | | - Marco Solmi
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- The Ottawa Hospital, Mental Health Department, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) Clinical Epidemiology Program University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- Psychiatry Research, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- DiMePRe-J-Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine-Jonic Area, University "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Giambersio D, Marzulli L, Margari L, Matera E, Nobili L, De Grandis E, Cordani R, Barbieri A, Peschechera A, Margari A, Petruzzelli MG. Correlations between Sleep Features and Iron Status in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4949. [PMID: 37568350 PMCID: PMC10420017 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12154949] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A high prevalence of sleep disturbances has been reported in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disability (ID). The etiology of sleep disorders in these children is heterogeneous and, recently, iron deficiency has received increasing attention. This study aims to investigate sleep features in children with NDDs and to explore a possible correlation between serum iron status biomarkers and qualitative features of sleep. We included 4- to 12-year-old children with a diagnosis of ASD, ADHD, or ID and assessed their sleep features through the children's sleep habits questionnaire (CSHQ). Venous blood samples were collected to investigate ferritin, transferrin, and iron levels. The mean CSHQ total score exceeds the cut-off in all groups of children. In the ASD group, the Parasomnias subscale negatively correlated with serum ferritin levels (Rho = 0.354; p = 0.029). Our findings may suggest the existence of an association between iron status, sleep quality, and neurodevelopmental processes. In clinical practice, sleep assessment should be included in the routine assessment for patients with NDDs. Furthermore, a routine assessment of iron status biomarkers should be recommended for children with NDDs who have sleep disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Giambersio
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (D.G.); (E.D.G.); (R.C.)
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DIBRAIN), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy (M.G.P.)
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Emilia Matera
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lino Nobili
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (D.G.); (E.D.G.); (R.C.)
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisa De Grandis
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (D.G.); (E.D.G.); (R.C.)
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Ramona Cordani
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (D.G.); (E.D.G.); (R.C.)
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Barbieri
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (D.G.); (E.D.G.); (R.C.)
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonia Peschechera
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DIMEPRE-J), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Anna Margari
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DIBRAIN), University of Studies of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy (M.G.P.)
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4
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Vibert B, Segura P, Gallagher L, Georgiades S, Pervanidou P, Thurm A, Alexander L, Anagnostou E, Aoki Y, Birken CS, Bishop SL, Boi J, Bravaccio C, Brentani H, Canevini P, Carta A, Charach A, Costantino A, Cost KT, Cravo EA, Crosbie J, Davico C, Donno F, Fujino J, Gabellone A, Geyer CT, Hirota T, Kanne S, Kawashima M, Kelley E, Kim H, Kim YS, Kim SH, Korczak DJ, Lai MC, Margari L, Marzulli L, Masi G, Mazzone L, McGrath J, Monga S, Morosini P, Nakajima S, Narzisi A, Nicolson R, Nikolaidis A, Noda Y, Nowell K, Polizzi M, Portolese J, Riccio MP, Saito M, Schwartz I, Simhal AK, Siracusano M, Sotgiu S, Stroud J, Sumiya F, Tachibana Y, Takahashi N, Takahashi R, Tamon H, Tancredi R, Vitiello B, Zuddas A, Leventhal B, Merikangas K, Milham MP, Di Martino A. CRISIS AFAR: an international collaborative study of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and service access in youth with autism and neurodevelopmental conditions. Mol Autism 2023; 14:7. [PMID: 36788583 PMCID: PMC9928142 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-022-00536-z] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterogeneous mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic are documented in the general population. Such heterogeneity has not been systematically assessed in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). To identify distinct patterns of the pandemic impact and their predictors in ASD/NDD youth, we focused on pandemic-related changes in symptoms and access to services. METHODS Using a naturalistic observational design, we assessed parent responses on the Coronavirus Health and Impact Survey Initiative (CRISIS) Adapted For Autism and Related neurodevelopmental conditions (AFAR). Cross-sectional AFAR data were aggregated across 14 European and North American sites yielding a clinically well-characterized sample of N = 1275 individuals with ASD/NDD (age = 11.0 ± 3.6 years; n females = 277). To identify subgroups with differential outcomes, we applied hierarchical clustering across eleven variables measuring changes in symptoms and access to services. Then, random forest classification assessed the importance of socio-demographics, pre-pandemic service rates, clinical severity of ASD-associated symptoms, and COVID-19 pandemic experiences/environments in predicting the outcome subgroups. RESULTS Clustering revealed four subgroups. One subgroup-broad symptom worsening only (20%)-included youth with worsening across a range of symptoms but with service disruptions similar to the average of the aggregate sample. The other three subgroups were, relatively, clinically stable but differed in service access: primarily modified services (23%), primarily lost services (6%), and average services/symptom changes (53%). Distinct combinations of a set of pre-pandemic services, pandemic environment (e.g., COVID-19 new cases, restrictions), experiences (e.g., COVID-19 Worries), and age predicted each outcome subgroup. LIMITATIONS Notable limitations of the study are its cross-sectional nature and focus on the first six months of the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Concomitantly assessing variation in changes of symptoms and service access during the first phase of the pandemic revealed differential outcome profiles in ASD/NDD youth. Subgroups were characterized by distinct prediction patterns across a set of pre- and pandemic-related experiences/contexts. Results may inform recovery efforts and preparedness in future crises; they also underscore the critical value of international data-sharing and collaborations to address the needs of those most vulnerable in times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Vibert
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Autism Center, Child Mind Institute, 101 E 56Th Street, Third Floor, New York, NY USA
| | - Patricia Segura
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Autism Center, Child Mind Institute, 101 E 56Th Street, Third Floor, New York, NY USA
| | - Louise Gallagher
- grid.8217.c0000 0004 1936 9705Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stelios Georgiades
- grid.25073.330000 0004 1936 8227Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - Panagiota Pervanidou
- Unit of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, First Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Aghia Sophia” Children’s Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Audrey Thurm
- grid.416868.50000 0004 0464 0574Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Lindsay Alexander
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Center for the Developing Brain, Child Mind Institute, New York, NY USA
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- grid.414294.e0000 0004 0572 4702Autism Research Centre, Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Yuta Aoki
- grid.410714.70000 0000 8864 3422Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Catherine S. Birken
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Division of Paediatric Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Somer L. Bishop
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Jessica Boi
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carmela Bravaccio
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XUOSD di Neuropsichiatria Infantile - Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Helena Brentani
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paola Canevini
- grid.4708.b0000 0004 1757 2822Department of Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy ,grid.415093.a0000 0004 1793 3800Epilepsy Center - Sleep Medicine Center, Childhood and Adolescence Neuropsychiatry Unit, ASST SS. Paolo E Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Carta
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Pharmacy, Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alice Charach
- grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Antonella Costantino
- grid.414818.00000 0004 1757 8749Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Katherine T. Cost
- grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Elaine A Cravo
- grid.20736.300000 0001 1941 472XUFPR - Federal University of Paraná, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Jennifer Crosbie
- grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Chiara Davico
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Donno
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Junya Fujino
- grid.265073.50000 0001 1014 9130Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- grid.7644.10000 0001 0120 3326Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Cristiane T Geyer
- grid.20736.300000 0001 1941 472XUFPR - Federal University of Paraná, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Tomoya Hirota
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA ,grid.257016.70000 0001 0673 6172Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan
| | - Stephen Kanne
- grid.5386.8000000041936877XDepartment of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College, Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, New York, NY USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Kelley
- grid.410356.50000 0004 1936 8331Department of Psychology, Queens University, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Hosanna Kim
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811The UCSF Center for ASD & NDDs, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Young Shin Kim
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811The UCSF Center for ASD & NDDs, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - So Hyun Kim
- grid.222754.40000 0001 0840 2678School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Daphne J. Korczak
- grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.5335.00000000121885934Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ,grid.155956.b0000 0000 8793 5925Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.412094.a0000 0004 0572 7815Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lucia Margari
- grid.7644.10000 0001 0120 3326Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- grid.7644.10000 0001 0120 3326Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Masi
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Calambrone-Pisa, Italy
| | - Luigi Mazzone
- grid.6530.00000 0001 2300 0941Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Jane McGrath
- grid.8217.c0000 0004 1936 9705Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland ,39ADMiRE, Linn Dara Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Cherry Orchard Hospital, Ballyfermot, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Suneeta Monga
- grid.42327.300000 0004 0473 9646Department of Psychiatry, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Paola Morosini
- Unita’ Operativa di Neuropsichiatria dell’ Infanzia e dell’ adolescenza, Lodi, Italy
| | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- grid.26091.3c0000 0004 1936 9959Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Rob Nicolson
- grid.39381.300000 0004 1936 8884Department of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON Canada
| | - Aki Nikolaidis
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Center for the Developing Brain, Child Mind Institute, New York, NY USA
| | - Yoshihiro Noda
- grid.26091.3c0000 0004 1936 9959Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kerri Nowell
- grid.134936.a0000 0001 2162 3504Thompson Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO USA
| | - Miriam Polizzi
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XUOSD di Neuropsichiatria Infantile - Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Joana Portolese
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Pia Riccio
- grid.4691.a0000 0001 0790 385XUOSD di Neuropsichiatria Infantile - Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Manabu Saito
- grid.257016.70000 0001 0673 6172Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan ,grid.257016.70000 0001 0673 6172Research Center for Child Mental Development, Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Japan ,grid.257016.70000 0001 0673 6172Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Comprehensive Rehabilitation Science, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan
| | - Ida Schwartz
- grid.8532.c0000 0001 2200 7498Genetics Department/UFRGS, Medical Genetics Service/HCPA, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Anish K. Simhal
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Autism Center, Child Mind Institute, 101 E 56Th Street, Third Floor, New York, NY USA ,grid.51462.340000 0001 2171 9952Medical Physics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA
| | - Martina Siracusano
- grid.6530.00000 0001 2300 0941Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Sotgiu
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Pharmacy, Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Jacob Stroud
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Autism Center, Child Mind Institute, 101 E 56Th Street, Third Floor, New York, NY USA
| | - Fernando Sumiya
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Yoshiyuki Tachibana
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Division of Infant and Toddler Mental Health, Department of Psychosocial Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nicole Takahashi
- grid.134936.a0000 0001 2162 3504Thompson Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO USA
| | | | - Hiroki Tamon
- grid.63906.3a0000 0004 0377 2305Division of Infant and Toddler Mental Health, Department of Psychosocial Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Benedetto Vitiello
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zuddas
- grid.7763.50000 0004 1755 3242Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience & Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy ,Child & Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, “A.Cao” Paediatric Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Bennett Leventhal
- grid.170205.10000 0004 1936 7822University of Chicago, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Kathleen Merikangas
- grid.416868.50000 0004 0464 0574Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Michael P. Milham
- grid.428122.f0000 0004 7592 9033Center for the Developing Brain, Child Mind Institute, New York, NY USA ,grid.250263.00000 0001 2189 4777Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY USA
| | - Adriana Di Martino
- Autism Center, Child Mind Institute, 101 E 56Th Street, Third Floor, New York, NY, USA.
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5
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Simone M, De Giacomo A, Palumbi R, Palazzo C, Lucisano G, Pompamea F, Micella S, Pascali M, Gabellone A, Marzulli L, Giordano P, Gargano CD, Margari L, Frigeri A, Ruggieri M. Serum Neurofilament Light Chain and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein as Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Preliminary Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033057. [PMID: 36769380 PMCID: PMC9917818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by a multifactorial etiology based on the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Recent evidence supports the neurobiological hypothesis based on neuroinflammation theory. To date, there are no sufficiently validated diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for ASD. Therefore, we decided to investigate the potential diagnostic role for ASD of two biomarkers well known for other neurological inflammatory conditions: the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and the neurofilament (Nfl). Nfl and GFAP serum levels were analyzed using SiMoA technology in a group of ASD patients and in a healthy control group (CTRS), age- and gender-matched. Then we investigated the distribution, frequency, and correlation between serum Nfl and GFAP levels and clinical data among the ASD group. The comparison of Nfl and GFAP serum levels between ASD children and the control group showed a mean value of these two markers significantly higher in the ASD group (sNfL mean value ASD pt 6.86 pg/mL median value ASD pt 5.7 pg/mL; mean value CTRS 3.55 pg/mL; median value CTRS 3.1 pg; GFAP mean value ASD pt 205.7 pg/mL median value ASD pt 155.4 pg/mL; mean value CTRS 77.12 pg/mL; median value CTRS 63.94 pg/mL). Interestingly, we also found a statistically significant positive correlation between GFAP levels and hyperactivity symptoms (p-value <0.001). Further investigations using larger groups are necessary to confirm our data and to verify in more depth the potential correlation between these biomarkers and ASD clinical features, such as the severity of the core symptoms, the presence of associated symptoms, and/or the evaluation of a therapeutic intervention. However, these data not only might shed a light on the neurobiology of ASD, supporting the neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration hypothesis, but they also might support the use of these biomarkers in the early diagnosis of ASD, to longitudinally monitor the disease activity, and even more as future prognostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Simone
- Regenerative and Precision Medicine Department and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Palumbi
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudia Palazzo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pompamea
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefania Micella
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Mara Pascali
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Giordano
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Concetta Domenica Gargano
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Regenerative and Precision Medicine Department and Jonic Area (DiMePRe-J), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Frigeri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maddalena Ruggieri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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6
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Petruzzelli MG, Margari L, Furente F, Marzulli L, Piarulli FM, Margari A, Ivagnes S, Lavorato E, Matera E. Body Emotional Investment and Emotion Dysregulation in a Sample of Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria Seeking Sex Reassignment. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11123314. [PMID: 35743384 PMCID: PMC9224617 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11123314] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescents with gender dysphoria (GD) often have internalizing symptoms, but the relationship with affective bodily investment and emotion dysregulation is actually under-investigated. The aims of this study are: (1) the comparison of Self-Administrated Psychiatric Scales for Children and Adolescents’ (SAFA), Body Investment Scale’s (BIS), and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale’s (DERS) scores between GD adolescents (n = 30) and cisgenders (n = 30), (2) finding correlations between body investment and emotion regulation in the GD sample, (3) evaluating the link between these dimensions and internalizing symptomatology of GD adolescents. In addition to the significant impairment in emotion regulation and a negative body investment in the GD sample, Spearman’s correlation analyses showed a relationship between worse body protection and impaired emotion regulation, and binary logistic regressions of these dimensions on each SAFA domain evidenced that they may have a role in the increased probability of pathological scores for depression. Our results focused on the role played by emotion regulation and emotional investment in the body in the exacerbating and maintenance of internalizing symptoms, in particular depression, and self-harming behaviors in GD adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (M.G.P.); (L.M.); (F.M.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (L.M.); (S.I.); (E.M.)
| | - Flora Furente
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (M.G.P.); (L.M.); (F.M.P.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (M.G.P.); (L.M.); (F.M.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Francesco Maria Piarulli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (M.G.P.); (L.M.); (F.M.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna Margari
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (M.G.P.); (L.M.); (F.M.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Sara Ivagnes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (L.M.); (S.I.); (E.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Lavorato
- Psychiatry Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Bari, 70100 Bari, Italy;
| | - Emilia Matera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (L.M.); (S.I.); (E.M.)
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7
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Matera E, Petruzzelli MG, Tarantini M, Gabellone A, Marzulli L, Ficarella R, Orsini P, Margari L. Horizontal Gaze Palsy with Progressive Scoliosis with Overlapping Epilepsy and Learning Difficulties: A Case Report. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12050613. [PMID: 35625000 PMCID: PMC9139940 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12050613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis (HGPPS) is a rare congenital disease characterized by the absence of horizontal gaze movements, progressive scoliosis, and typical brain, cerebellum, and medullary malformations. Here we describe a pediatric HGPPS case with overlapping epilepsy and learning difficulties. A 6-year-old girl was admitted to the University Hospital of Bari for the onset of a tonic–clonic seizure. Electroencephalogram showed slow and sharp waves on the right side with the tendency to diffuse. Brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated malformations compatible with HGPPS. Ophthalmological and orthopedic evaluations confirmed conjugate horizontal gaze palsy and mild thoracolumbar scoliosis. Neuropsychological assessment attested normal intelligence but serious difficulties in reading and writing. In spite of neuroradiological malformations, visual difficulties, and spinal deformities, literature data are limited about any coexisting neurocognitive HGPPS symptoms. Literature data regarding such topics are very limited. If, on the one hand, the coexistence of such symptoms can be interpreted as occasional, it could support the idea that they could fall within a spectrum of HGPPS anomalies. In addition to the standard investigations, the activation of specific neuropsychological assessment programs could help interventions improve the specialist care and the quality of life of HGPPS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Matera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (E.M.); (M.T.); (A.G.); (L.M.); (L.M.)
| | - Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Martina Tarantini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (E.M.); (M.T.); (A.G.); (L.M.); (L.M.)
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (E.M.); (M.T.); (A.G.); (L.M.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (E.M.); (M.T.); (A.G.); (L.M.); (L.M.)
| | - Romina Ficarella
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, ASL Bari, Via Ospedale Di Venere 1, 70012 Bari, Italy; (R.F.); (P.O.)
| | - Paola Orsini
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, ASL Bari, Via Ospedale Di Venere 1, 70012 Bari, Italy; (R.F.); (P.O.)
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital “A. Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70100 Bari, Italy; (E.M.); (M.T.); (A.G.); (L.M.); (L.M.)
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8
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Serra M, Presicci A, Quaranta L, Urbano MRE, Marzulli L, Matera E, Margari F, Margari L. Depressive risk among Italian socioeconomically disadvantaged children and adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional online survey. Ital J Pediatr 2022; 48:68. [PMID: 35526021 PMCID: PMC9077638 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-022-01266-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and adolescents and low-income individuals are considered particularly vulnerable for mental health implications during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Depression is a frequent negative emotional response during an epidemic outbreak and is also prone importantly to environmental risk like stressors derived from income inequality. We aimed to assess depressive symptomatology in a sample of Italian low-income minors during the COVID-19 outbreak. We hypothesized that the stronger were the negative effects of the pandemic on socioeconomic conditions, the higher would have been the risk for showing depressive symptoms. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study during July 2020, at the end of the Italian first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. We recruited 109 Italian socioeconomically disadvantaged children and adolescents from 7 to 17 years. We used an online survey to collect socio-demographic and clinical data and information about pandemic-related stressors and to assess depressive symptoms with the Children's Depression Inventory 2 (CDI 2), Parent Version (Emotional Problems subscale) and Self-Report Short Form. We performed logistic regression analysis to assess the association between depressive symptoms and potential risk factors for mental health. RESULTS 22% and 14% of participants showed depressive symptoms at the CDI 2 Parent Version and Self-Report, respectively. Participants coming from families experiencing a lack of basic supplies during the pandemic (34.9%) were more expected to show depressive symptoms at CDI 2 Parent Version. Participants with a pre-existing neuropsychiatric diagnosis (26.6%) were more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms measured by CDI 2 Parent Version. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study showed that a group of Italian socioeconomically disadvantaged children and adolescents were more vulnerable to depressive symptoms if they suffered from a paucity of essential supplies during the pandemic or had pre-existing neurodevelopmental disorders. The promotion of educational and child-care programs and activities could be crucial in sustaining the prevention of mental distress in those frail subjects who particularly need support outside the family. Further studies are needed to detect effective preventive and therapeutic strategies to adopt promptly in the case of another pandemic wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serra
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via Edoardo Orabona 4, Bari, Italy
| | - Anna Presicci
- Department of Neuroscience, Sense Organs and Locomotor System, University Hospital "Policlinico", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Luigi Quaranta
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Via Edoardo Orabona 4, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Erminia Urbano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Emilia Matera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Margari
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
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9
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De Giacomo A, Medicamento S, Pedaci C, Giambersio D, Giannico OV, Petruzzelli MG, Simone M, Corsalini M, Marzulli L, Matera E. Peripheral Iron Levels in Autism Spectrum Disorders vs. Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Preliminary Data. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19074006. [PMID: 35409689 PMCID: PMC8997833 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social skills and specific behaviors and interests. Among other environmental factors, iron may play a role in the development of ASD. The aim of this study is to compare the iron status of children with ASD with that of children affected by neurodevelopmental disorders other than ASD (OND). A total of 167 patients were enrolled, including 93 children with ASD and 74 children with OND. In the two groups, we determined ferritin, iron, transferrin, hemoglobin, HCT, and MCV in the serum. We found a significant difference in serum ferritin and MCV levels between the two groups (p < 0.05), with lower ferritin and higher MCV values in the ASD group. There was no significant association with the other variables. Our results may support the hypothesis of altered iron status in ASD, justifying more frequent examinations of blood iron parameters in these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Giacomo
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Silvia Medicamento
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Chiara Pedaci
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Donatella Giambersio
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | | | - Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Marta Simone
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Massimo Corsalini
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Emilia Matera
- School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.M.); (C.P.); (D.G.); (M.G.P.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (L.M.); (E.M.)
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10
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Serra M, Presicci A, Quaranta L, Caputo E, Achille M, Margari F, Croce F, Marzulli L, Margari L. Assessing Clinical Features of Adolescents Suffering from Depression Who Engage in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury. Children (Basel) 2022; 9:children9020201. [PMID: 35204921 PMCID: PMC8870312 DOI: 10.3390/children9020201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Depressive disorders (DDs) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) are important juvenile mental health issues, showing alarming increasing rates. They frequently co-occur, mainly among adolescents, increasing the suicide risk. We aimed to compare the clinical features of two groups of adolescents with DDs, differed by their engagement or not in NSSI (“DD + NSSI” and “DD”). We hypothesized that NSSI would characterize particularly severe forms of DDs suitable for becoming specific phenotypes of adolescent depression. We enrolled 56 adolescents (11–17 years) diagnosed with a DD according to the DSM-5 criteria. They were assessed for NSSI endorsement (Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory), depressive symptoms (Children’s Depression Inventory 2), emotional dysregulation (Difficulties in Emotional Regulation Scale), and anxiety symptoms (Screen for Child Anxiety-Related Emotional Disorders). The two groups accounted for 31 (“DD + NSSI”) and 25 (“DD”) individuals. The “DD + NSSI” group had significantly higher suicidal ideation (p 0.0039), emotional dysregulation (p 0.0092), depressive symptoms (p 0.0138), and anxiety symptoms (p 0.0153) than the “DD” group. NSSI seemed to characterize more severe phenotypes of adolescent depression, applying for a potential role as a “specifier” of DDs, describing relevant information for their management. Further studies are needed to support this hypothesis and its potential opportunities for prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serra
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Presicci
- Department of Neuroscience, Sense Organs and Locomotor System, University Hospital “Policlinico”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Luigi Quaranta
- Department of Computer Science, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Elvita Caputo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.C.); (M.A.); (L.M.)
| | - Mariaclara Achille
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.C.); (M.A.); (L.M.)
| | - Francesco Margari
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (F.M.); (F.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Federica Croce
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (F.M.); (F.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (F.M.); (F.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.C.); (M.A.); (L.M.)
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11
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Simone M, Palazzo C, Mastrapasqua M, Bollo L, Pompamea F, Gabellone A, Marzulli L, Giordano P, De Giacomo A, Frigeri A, Ruggieri M, Margari L. Serum Neurofilament Light Chain Levels and Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibodies in Pediatric Acquired Demyelinating Syndromes. Front Neurol 2021; 12:754518. [PMID: 34867740 PMCID: PMC8635987 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.754518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The relationship between serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-Ab) status has not been yet investigated in children with the acquired demyelinating syndrome (ADS). Objective and Methods: The sNfL levels and MOG-Abs were measured by ultrasensitive single-molecule array and cell-based assay in a cohort of 37 children with ADS and negativity for serum anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibodies. The sNfL levels were compared in MOG-Ab+/MOG-Ab– and in two subgroups MOG-Ab+ with/without encephalopathy. Results: About 40% ADS resulted in MOG-Ab+. MOG-Ab+ were younger at sampling (median = 9.8; range = 2.17–17.5 vs. 14.7/9–17; p = 0.002) with lower frequency of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal bands positivity (27% vs. 70%; p = 0.013) compared to MOG-Ab–. About 53% of MOG-Ab+ presented encephalopathy at onset, 1/22 of MOG-Ab– (p = 0.0006). Higher sNfL levels (p = 0.0001) were found in MOG-Ab+ (median/range = 11.11/6.8–1,129) and MOG-Ab– (median/range = 11.6/4.3–788) compared to age-matched controls (median/range = 2.98/1–4.53), without significant difference. MOG-Ab+ with encephalopathy resulted significantly younger at sampling (median/range: 4.5/2.17–11.17 vs. 14.16/9.8–17.5; p = 0.004), had higher sNfL levels (median/range:75.24/9.1–1,129 vs. 10.22/6.83–50.53; p = 0.04), and showed a trend for higher MOG-Ab titer (0.28/0.04–0.69 vs. 0.05/0.04–0.28; p = 0.1) in comparison to those without encephalopathy. Discussion: We confirmed high sNfL levels in pediatric ADS independently from the MOG-Ab status. Encephalopathy at onset is associated more frequently with MOG Ab+ children with higher sNfL levels and MOG titer. These findings suggest a role of acute demyelination in association with axonal damage in the pathogenesis of encephalopathy in pediatric ADS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Simone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Claudia Palazzo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Mastrapasqua
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Luca Bollo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pompamea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Giordano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Frigeri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Maddalena Ruggieri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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12
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Mignogna ML, Ficarella R, Gelmini S, Marzulli L, Ponzi E, Gabellone A, Peschechera A, Alessio M, Margari L, Gentile M, D'Adamo P. Clinical characterization of a novel RAB39B nonstop mutation in a family with ASD and severe ID causing RAB39B downregulation and study of a Rab39b knock down mouse model. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 31:1389-1406. [PMID: 34761259 PMCID: PMC9071400 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) often exist together in patients. The RAB39B gene has been reported to be mutated in ID patients with additional clinical features ranging from ASD, macrocephaly, seizures and/or early-onset parkinsonism. Here, we describe a novel RAB39B nonstop mutation [Xq28; c.640 T > C; p.(*214Glnext*21)] in a family with ASD, severe ID and poor motor coordination, and we assessed the pathogenicity of the mutation. A heterologous cell system and a Rab39b knockdown (KD) murine model, which mimic the nonstop mutation, were used to validate the deleterious effect of the RAB39B mutation. The mutation led to RAB39B protein instability, resulting in its increased degradation and consequent downregulation. Using a Rab39b KD mouse model, we demonstrated that the downregulation of RAB39B led to increased GluA2 lacking Ca2+-permeable AMPAR composition at the hippocampal neuronal surface and increased dendritic spine density that remained in an immature filopodia-like state. These phenotypes affected behavioural performance in a disease-specific manner. Rab39b KD mice revealed impaired social behaviour but intact social recognition. They also showed normal anxiety-like, exploratory and motivational behaviours but impaired working and associative memories. In conclusion, we found a novel RAB39B nonstop variant that segregated in a family with a clinical phenotype including ID, ASD and poor motor coordination. The pathogenicity of mutations causing the downregulation of RAB39B proteins, impacting AMPAR trafficking and dendritic spine morphogenesis, reinforced the idea that AMPAR modulation and dendritic spine assets could be considered hallmarks of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lidia Mignogna
- Molecular genetics of intellectual disability, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Romina Ficarella
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Reproductive Medicine, ASL Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Susanna Gelmini
- Molecular genetics of intellectual disability, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro"
| | - Emanuela Ponzi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Reproductive Medicine, ASL Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro"
| | - Antonia Peschechera
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro"
| | - Massino Alessio
- Proteome Biochemistry, Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro"
| | - Mattia Gentile
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Reproductive Medicine, ASL Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Patrizia D'Adamo
- Molecular genetics of intellectual disability, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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13
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Simone M, Margari L, Pompamea F, De Giacomo A, Gabellone A, Marzulli L, Palumbi R. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Clinical Case on the Potential Role of the Dystrophin in Autism Neurobiology. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10194370. [PMID: 34640386 PMCID: PMC8509154 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194370] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is reported in up to 19% of dystrophinopathies. However, over the last ten years, only a few papers have been published on this topic. Therefore, further studies are required to analyze this association in depth and ultimately to understand the role of the brain dystrophin isoform in the pathogenesis of ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. In this paper, we report a clinical case of a patient affected by ASD and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, who carries a large deletion of the dystrophin gene. Then we present a brief overview of the literature about similar cases and about the potential role of the dystrophin protein in the neurobiology of autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Simone
- Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.S.); (F.P.); (A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucia Margari
- Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.S.); (F.P.); (A.G.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Pompamea
- Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.S.); (F.P.); (A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sensory Organs Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.D.G.); (R.P.)
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.S.); (F.P.); (A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.S.); (F.P.); (A.G.); (L.M.)
| | - Roberto Palumbi
- Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sensory Organs Department, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.D.G.); (R.P.)
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14
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Matera E, Gabellone A, Petruzzelli MG, Marzulli L, Furente F, Margari L. Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis with Serum Anti-Thyroid Antibodies: A Case Report and Literature Review. Am J Case Rep 2021; 22:e931104. [PMID: 33999913 PMCID: PMC8141336 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.931104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-N methyl D-aspartate receptor encephalitis (anti-NMDArE) is a disorder in which triggers such as infectious agents or neoplastic disease can lead to an autoimmune response against the nervous system, although this disorder is usually idiopathic. Some patients with anti-NMDArE have evidence of other autoimmune alterations. Here, we present a case of non-paraneoplastic anti-NMDArE with elevation of serum anti-thyroid antibodies and a literature review of this association. CASE REPORT A 16-year-old girl was admitted in the University Hospital of Bari for a new onset of tonic-clonic seizures. Progressively, the patient manifested also psychomotor agitation, language difficulties, memory impairment, psychotic symptoms, autonomic dysfunction, and psychomotor retardation. Blood evaluation revealed the presence of anti-thyroglobulin, anti-thyroperoxidase, and anti-NMDAr antibodies. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed the diagnosis of anti-NMDArE. No tumors were found. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids, and plasma exchange relieved symptoms and decreased levels of serum anti-NMDAr antibodies. After 12 months, the patient had full recovery of communicative capacity, with the persistence of slight difficulty of memory and mild tendency to irritability. Blood exams shown persistence of anti-NMDAr positivity and absence of anti-thyroid antibodies. CONCLUSIONS We report a rare case in which an autoimmune involvement of thyroid gland was concurrent with an anti-NMDArE. It would be useful for clinical practice to clarify whether the presence of anti-thyroid antibody an characterize the clinical course, prognosis, and response to treatment of the idiopathic type of anti-NMDArE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Matera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Flora Furente
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University Hospital of Bari, Bari, Italy
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15
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Petruzzelli MG, Marzulli L, Margari F, De Giacomo A, Gabellone A, Giannico OV, Margari L. Vitamin D Deficiency in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study. Dis Markers 2020; 2020:9292560. [PMID: 33014190 PMCID: PMC7520686 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9292560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D plays a role in central nervous system (CNS) development. Recent literature focused on vitamin D status in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but with inconsistent results. Our case-control study is aimed at evaluating serum 25-hydroxyl-vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration in children with ASD (ASD group, n = 54) compared to children affected by other neurological and psychiatric disorders (non-ASD group, n = 36). All patients were admitted at the Complex Operative Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, Polyclinic of Bari, Italy. 25(OH)D was quantified by chemiluminescence immunoassay and level defined as: deficiency (<20 ng/mL); insufficiency (20-30); normality (30-100); toxicity (>100). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS20 (significance < 0.05). The ASD group showed 25(OH)D a mean level significantly lower than control (p = 0.014). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed an association between ASD and vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.006). The nature of such association is unclear. Vitamin D deficiency may probably act as a risk factor for the development of ASD. Further studies are needed to unravel the role of vitamin D in ASD etiology and investigate its therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G. Petruzzelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Margari
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gabellone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Orazio V. Giannico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
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Margari L, Marzulli L, Gabellone A, de Giambattista C. Eating and Mealtime Behaviors in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current Perspectives. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:2083-2102. [PMID: 32982247 PMCID: PMC7504729 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s224779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social and communication skills and repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Children and adolescents with ASD are more likely to present feeding problems than their typically developing peers are. The present narrative review of literature aims to highlight the most recent evidence about epidemiology and presentations of eating and mealtime behavioral abnormalities in ASD from infancy to adolescence. Abnormalities in breastfeeding and acceptance of complementary foods have been described by most of the studies evaluating ASD early feeding history. Among the various eating and mealtime behaviors identified in ASD children and adolescents, the most common was food selectivity. The present review also provides brief overviews of the various aspects of food that may influence food acceptance by ASD patients and of the correlation between eating problems and ASD core symptoms, as well as with cognitive level, language skills, and family environment. However, studies evaluating eating problems in ASD children and adolescents are very heterogeneous and they show methodological differences. Moreover, the absence of unique definitions of eating and mealtime behaviors in ASD further limits the comparability of studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Margari
- Child Neuropsychiatric Unit, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Child Neuropsychiatric Unit, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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17
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Petruzzelli MG, Marzulli L, Giannico OV, Furente F, Margari M, Matera E, Margari F. Glucose Metabolism, Thyroid Function, and Prolactin Level in Adolescent Patients With First Episode of Schizophrenia and Affective Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:775. [PMID: 32848941 PMCID: PMC7422423 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia and affective spectrum disorders (ASD) typically begin in adolescence or early adulthood. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these disorders are still not fully understood, and recent studies have suggested an involvement of dysfunctions in cardiometabolic and neuroendocrine systems at the onset of both disorders. In this context, we aimed to assess thyroid function, prolactin level, glucose metabolism, and lipid profile in drug naive adolescents, comparing patients with first episode of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) and patients with ASD. We performed a retrospective chart review from inpatients aged from ten to eighteen years, referred to Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit of University of Bari "Aldo Moro" over a period of 4 years, with diagnosis of SSD (n=30) or ASD (n=22), according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders-fifth edition (DSM-5) criteria. Data on serum prolactin, glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, thyroid stimulating hormone, free triiodothyronin, and free thyroxin were collected, and the insulin resistance (IR) indexes "HOMA1-IR" and "HOMA2-IR" were calculated. The multivariable linear regression models, adjusting for potential confounding factors (age, sex, and BMI), showed HOMA1-IR (p=0.001), HOMA2-IR (p=0.002), glucose (p=0.004), insulin (p=0.004) and free thyroxin (p<0.001) values higher in the SSD group than in ASD. No others significant differences were found. Our findings suggest the need for a metabolic and endocrine screening at the onset of SSD and ASD, particularly for indexes of IR, that is a testable and treatable risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases. Further studies are required to better understand the role of endocrinological and metabolic dysfunctions at the onset of severe mental illness also considering influencing factors as age, gender, and BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Marzulli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Orazio Valerio Giannico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Flora Furente
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Mariella Margari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - Emilia Matera
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Margari
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
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