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Association between gut microbiota and autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis
This 2019 paper explains that the bacteria community (microbiota) in the gut may have a role in the physiological processes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), since gastrointestinal dysfunction is a comorbidity that often accompanies ASD. Manipulation of the gut microbiota has been reported to reduce the symptoms of ASD, but studies have yet to confirm the patterns in altered bacterial species specific to this disorder. This meta-analysis examined the bacterial genera abundances seen in the gut of healthy control subjects and of patients with ASD. Nine studies were included in this meta-analysis, with data on 254 individuals with ASD. Autistic children were found to possess lower percentages of Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, and Parabacteroides and a higher percentage of Faecalibacterium in their guts, when compared with healthy controls. In addition, kids living with autism showed lower abundances of Enterococcus, Escherichia coli, Bacteroides, and Bifidobacterium and higher abundance of Lactobacillus (relative to control). This meta-analysis suggests an association between ASD and an alteration in gut microbiota composition. Future studies are recommended to assess the relationship between bacterial changes and symptoms of ASD, as this research would enhance the evidence for the accurate and appropriate treatment of autism. [NPID: autism, autism spectrum disorder, ASD, gut microbiota, gut microbiome, gut bacteria, meta-analysis, probiotics, children]
Year: 2019
