Immune

Research suggests a link between immune system dysfunction and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including immune hypersensitivity, with some individuals exhibiting increased inflammation, allergies, and autoimmune conditions. 

Here’s a more detailed look at the connection:

Evidence of Immune Dysfunction in ASD:

• Increased Prevalence of Immune-Related Conditions:Studies show that individuals with ASD have a higher frequency of immune-related comorbidities such as autoimmune disorders, allergies, and psoriasis compared to typically developing individuals. 
• Immune System Changes:Research indicates that individuals with ASD often exhibit changes in immune cell function, including inappropriate immune cell activation, the production of autoantibodies, cytokine and chemokine imbalances, and increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier. 
• Inflammation:Brain specimens from autism subjects exhibit signs of active, ongoing inflammation, as well as alterations in gene pathways associated with immune signaling and immune function. 
• Gut Microbiome:Some research suggests that ASD may be linked to shifts in the gut microbiota, which can further contribute to immune dysregulation and inflammation. 
• Maternal Immune Factors:Maternal immune dysfunction, such as autoimmune diseases or infections during pregnancy, may increase the risk of ASD in the child. The University of Sydney found that children with autism are more likely to show severe social symptoms if their mother had chronic asthma or allergies while pregnant. 
• Sensory Sensitivities:Some autistic individuals experience sensory sensitivities, which can be linked to immune dysregulation and inflammation. 

Specific Immune-Related Conditions Linked to ASD:

• Allergies:Studies indicate that allergies are more common in individuals with ASD. 
• Autoimmune Diseases:Some studies suggest a higher prevalence of autoimmune diseases in individuals with ASD and their families. 
• Asthma:While some studies show a higher prevalence of asthma in individuals with ASD, others show a lower prevalence. 
• Gastrointestinal Issues:Gastrointestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, are frequently reported in individuals with ASD, and may be linked to immune dysregulation. 
• Skin Conditions:Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are also more common in individuals with ASD. 
• Inflammation:Ongoing immune dysregulation persists in autism, with an increased inflammatory cytokine milieu. 

Research Implications and Future Directions:

• Therapeutic Targets:A better understanding of the immune system’s role in ASD may lead to new therapeutic strategies. 
• Early Intervention:Identifying and addressing immune dysfunction early in life may be crucial for improving outcomes for individuals with ASD. 
• Further Research:More research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between the immune system and ASD. 

• Immune mediated conditions in autism spectrum disorders11 Feb 2015PubMed
• The Role of the Immune System in Autism Spectrum Disorder – Nature18 Aug 2016 — Ongoing immune dysregulation persists in autism. After birth and at least throughout childhood, an individual with ASD …Nature
• Immune Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder – PubMed CentralIn this context, it has been concluded that ASD may be linked to a disturbed immune balance involving both of the main dysregulati…PubMed Central
• Show all

This is for