Researchers have discovered a notable connection between certain dihydroxy fatty acids in umbilical cord blood and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This research underscores the role of these metabolites in the development of ASD and offers potential pathways for early diagnostic methods and a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of ASD.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences individuals’ abilities to learn and engage socially. Awareness around ASD has grown significantly over the past several years, particularly regarding how common it is and its impact on individuals who are diagnosed. Nonetheless, many elements of ASD remain poorly understood, indicating that further exploration is necessary.
While the precise origins of ASD remain elusive, existing research suggests that neuroinflammation is a key contributing factor. Various studies utilizing mouse models have indicated that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and their metabolites during pregnancy may play a crucial role in the onset of ASD. Metabolites of PUFAs, regulated by the cytochrome P450 (CYP), appear to influence fetal development in mice, leading to impairments that resemble ASD symptoms. However, it remains uncertain if this is applicable to humans and requires additional research.
To fill this knowledge gap, a research team from Japan, including Professor Hideo Matsuzaki from the Research Center for Child Mental Development at the University of Fukui, Dr. Takaharu Hirai from the Department of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing at the same university, and Dr. Naoko Umeda from the Department of Maternal and Child Health Nursing, conducted an analysis of CYP-PUFA levels in umbilical cord blood samples. Their findings were published on July 23, 2024, in Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, shedding light on potential causes of ASD.
Explaining the aim of their study, Prof. Matsuzaki stated, “CYP metabolism results in the formation of both epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs), which are anti-inflammatory, and dihydroxy fatty acids, or ‘diols,’ that promote inflammation. We proposed that changes in CYP-PUFA metabolites during fetal development, specifically lower EpFA levels, elevated diol levels, and/or increased EpFA metabolic enzymes, would impact ASD symptoms and everyday functioning challenges in children post-birth.”
To test this theory, the researchers explored the relationship between PUFA metabolites found in umbilical cord blood and ASD assessments in 200 children. The cord blood samples were collected right after birth and stored correctly, while the ASD symptoms and adaptive capabilities were evaluated when the children turned six years old, with input from their mothers.
Through detailed statistical analysis, the team identified a particular compound within the cord blood that could significantly relate to ASD severity: 11,12-dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (diHETrE), a type of dihydroxy fatty acid that originates from arachidonic acid.
“The presence of diHETrE, which is derived from arachidonic acid, in cord blood at birth had a notable effect on the ASD symptoms that developed later in the children, as well as their adaptive functioning capabilities. These results imply that the levels of diHETrE during the fetal stage play a pivotal role in the children’s growth after birth,” noted Prof. Matsuzaki.
The researchers found that higher levels of 11,12-diHETrE were linked to social interaction skills, while lower levels of 8,9-diHETrE were correlated with repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Additionally, the impacts were noted to be more significant among girls than boys. This new information could be vital for the understanding, diagnosing, and potentially preventing ASD. By measuring diHETrE levels at birth, it might be possible to foresee the risk of children developing ASD.
“It is well-established that early intervention for children with ASD is beneficial, and identifying it at birth could enhance the support and interventions available for these children,” reflects Prof. Matsuzaki. He also highlights that targeting diHETrE metabolism during pregnancy could be a promising strategy for preventing ASD traits in children, although this avenue necessitates further exploration.
In summary, these discoveries present an encouraging direction for researchers seeking to demystify ASD. Increased understanding and early diagnostic capabilities could significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families.