Review by Dr. James Adams Highlights Gut-Brain Connection and Potential Biomarker for Autism
A systematic review led by Dr. James Adams and colleagues highlights the significant elevation of indoxyl sulfate, a neurotoxic metabolite derived from gut bacteria, in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The review, which analyzed six studies, found consistently higher urinary concentrations of this metabolite in ASD patients compared to typically developing children, with levels often doubling. Indoxyl sulfate is known to disrupt neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, contributing to cognitive, mood, and behavioral challenges associated with ASD. It is also linked to comorbid conditions like chronic kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, and anxiety disorders. Dr. Adams and his team suggest that indoxyl sulfate could serve as a biomarker for identifying intestinal dysbiosis in ASD and as a potential therapeutic target, emphasizing the importance of gut-brain interactions in understanding and addressing autism symptoms.
