Case Report Highlights Significant Gut Microbiome and Behavioral Improvements in Teen with ASD Using Sibling Donor
In a fascinating new case report, researchers, including Steven J. Walker, PhD, documented significant improvements in both gut microbiome composition and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms after familial fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was performed in an adolescent with ASD. The donor material used in the FMT came from the typically developing female sibling of the 19-year-old male subject. Six months after the procedure, the teen showed a significant reduction in Proteobacteria, increased beneficial Actinobacteria (especially Bifidobacterium), and improved bacterial diversity. Remarkably, the previously non-verbal young man spoke his first words and exhibited calmer behavior just one month post-FMT. This case suggests that using a familial donor for FMT may be particularly effective in treating gut dysbiosis and alleviating neurobehavioral symptoms in older individuals with severe ASD. This case report’s findings highlight the potential for familial FMT to provide targeted, effective treatment for ASD, emphasizing the need for further research to validate these results in larger cohorts.
