A recent study suggests that analyzing specific fatty acid metabolites in newborn blood might help predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Researchers discovered that higher levels of certain metabolites were associated with increased ASD symptoms by age six.
This breakthrough could pave the way for early diagnosis and intervention, potentially improving outcomes for children with ASD. The study highlights the role of prenatal factors in the development of ASD.
Key Findings:
- Elevated levels of diHETrE in newborn blood are linked to heightened ASD symptoms.
- The research involved examining umbilical cord blood from 200 children.
- Early ASD detection through blood tests could improve intervention strategies.
Study Details:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects learning and social behavior. Although the exact causes of ASD remain unclear, neuroinflammation is considered a significant factor. Research in animal models has suggested that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and their metabolites during pregnancy may play a crucial role in ASD development.
To explore this further, a research team from the University of Fukui, including Professor Hideo Matsuzaki, Dr. Takaharu Hirai, and Dr. Naoko Umeda, investigated CYP-PUFA levels in neonatal umbilical cord blood samples.
Professor Matsuzaki explained, “CYP metabolism produces epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs) with anti-inflammatory effects and dihydroxy fatty acids, or ‘diols,’ with inflammatory properties. We hypothesized that variations in CYP-PUFA metabolites during the fetal period, such as lower EpFA levels or higher diol levels, could influence ASD symptoms and daily functioning in children.”
The researchers analyzed PUFA metabolites in umbilical cord blood and assessed ASD symptoms in 200 children at age six. The cord blood samples were collected at birth, and ASD symptoms were evaluated with the help of the children’s mothers.
The study identified 11,12-dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (diHETrE), a dihydroxy fatty acid derived from arachidonic acid, as a key factor. “Higher levels of diHETrE in cord blood at birth significantly affected ASD symptoms and adaptive functioning,” noted Professor Matsuzaki. Elevated 11,12-diHETrE levels were linked to social interaction issues, while lower levels of 8,9-diHETrE were associated with repetitive behaviors. This correlation was more pronounced in girls than boys.
These findings could be instrumental in understanding, diagnosing, and possibly preventing ASD. Measuring diHETrE levels at birth might help predict the likelihood of ASD development.
Professor Matsuzaki also suggested that inhibiting diHETrE metabolism during pregnancy might offer a promising approach to preventing ASD traits, though further research is needed.
Overall, these insights could significantly enhance early diagnostics and support for children with ASD and their families.
