Immunologic and neurodevelopmental susceptibilities of autism

Abstract

Symposium 5 focused on research approaches that are aimed at understanding common patterns of immunological and neurological dysfunction contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD. The session focused on genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors that might act in concert to influence autism risk, severity and co-morbidities, and immunological and neurobiological targets as etiologic contributors. The immune system of children at risk of autism may be therefore especially susceptible to psychological stressors, exposure to chemical triggers, and infectious agents. Identifying early biomarkers of risk provides tangible approaches toward designing studies in animals and humans that yield a better understanding of environmental risk factors, and can help identify rational intervention strategies to mitigate these risks.

Maternal Chemical and Drug Intolerances: Potential Risk Factors for Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

“…Numerous studies of humans demonstrate an association between chemical exposures and impaired neurodevelopment. [11][12][13] Prenatal exposure to organophosphorus pesticides is a risk factor for the development of ASD 14 and ADHD, 15 and is known to impair neurodevelopment in children. 16 Proximity to vehicle traffic and coal-fired power plants also are recognized risk factors for both ADHD and ASD.…”

Autism Spectrum Disorders: Translating human deficits into mouse behavior

“…Besides genetic causes, environmental factors such as heavy metals, pesticides, food dietary, exposure to toxic contaminants and maternal stress during pregnancy might predispose and cooperate in the developing of ASDs (Banerjee et al, 2014;Durkin et al, 2008;Kinney et al, 2008;Pessah et al, 2008).…”

Uncovering the Etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders: Genomics, Bioinformatics, Environment, Data Collection and Exploration, and Future Possibilities

“…His talk will also review challenges that remain in this field for detection and interpretation of inherited and de-novo rare-variants in ASD. Dr. Neale has conducted analyses for genetic data focused on psychiatric illness, particularly ADHD and autism, but also Tourette's obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia 19 and eating disorders.…”

“…Investigation of environmental risk factors for ASDs is a growing research field 19,20 . The wide heterogeneity of ASD symptoms, and how to best ascertain individuals for study, are challenging.…”