The relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder, Gut-Brain axis and Gut Microbiota

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which symptoms such as difficulty in social interaction, communication problems, limited interests, and limited behavioral patterns are observed. The prevalence of ASD has been increasing over the years, but its etiology has not been fully elucidated. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are a common comorbidity in children with ASD, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Many studies have shown alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota and their metabolic products in patients with ASD. The gut microbiota influences brain development and behaviors through the neuroendocrine, neuroimmune, and autonomic nervous systems. In addition, abnormal gut microbiota is associated with several diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and psychiatric diseases (ASD, depression, anxiety disorder, etc.). In this review, we aim to provide information about the bidirectional interactions between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract (the gut-brain axis), the possible roles of the gut-brain axis and gut microbiota in the etiology of autism spectrum disorder, and current hypotheses.

Keywords

• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Gut-brain axis
• Gut Microbiota

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