Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder—Current Progress of Mechanisms and Biomarkers

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that has been diagnosed in an increasing number of children around the world. Existing data suggest that early diagnosis and intervention can improve ASD outcomes. However, the causes of ASD remain complex and unclear, and there are currently no clinical biomarkers for autism spectrum disorder. More mechanisms and biomarkers of autism have been found with the development of advanced technology such as mass spectrometry. Many recent studies have found a link between ASD and elevated oxidative stress, which may play a role in its development. ASD is caused by oxidative stress in several ways, including protein post-translational changes (e.g., carbonylation), abnormal metabolism (e.g., lipid peroxidation), and toxic buildup [e.g., reactive oxygen species (ROS)]. To detect elevated oxidative stress in ASD, various biomarkers have been developed and employed. This article summarizes recent studies about the mechanisms and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Potential biomarkers identified in this study could be used for early diagnosis and evaluation of ASD intervention, as well as to inform and target ASD pharmacological or nutritional treatment interventions.

Calcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha 1 C and glial fibrillary acidic protein signaling pathways as a selective biomarker in predicting the efficacy of liposomal loaded co-enzyme Q in the autistic rat model

“…Therefore, an increase in its consumption leads to a decrease in its concentration, inhibition of glutathione reductase, and a decrease in defense mechanisms against ROS. This will be reflected on the brain cells causing damage, affect the behavior of the animal and increase the side effects of autism [27] .…”

Altered Blood Brain Barrier Permeability and Oxidative Stress in Cntnap2 Knockout Rat Model

“…Glutathione is vital in protecting cells from oxidant damage [ 103 ], however, glutathione redox imbalance is commonly seen in individuals with ASD. In ASD, decreased concentrations of reduced glutathione (GSH) and greater levels of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) have been observed, as well as a decreased GSH/GSSG redox ratio [ 101 , 104 , 105 , 106 ]. Additionally, decreased glutathione levels within red blood cells (RBCs) have been associated with ASD severity [ 107 , 108 ].…”

Independent and Combined Effects of Probiotics and Prebiotics as Supplements or Food-Rich Diets on a Propionic-Acid-Induced Rodent Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder

“…Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing GSH levels have been demonstrated to improve ASD behaviors [ 34 , 35 ]. GSH and GPX1 play a role in the antioxidant defense against a wide range of environmental pollutants, including PPA [ 36 , 37 , 38 ]. Table 1 and Figure 1 demonstrate the significant decrease in GPX1 and GSH observed in both PPA-treated groups in the rodent model of ASD.…”