Evidence for mitochondrial or cell dysfunction in autism is growing, according to new research.
The researchers suggest a subset of children on the autism spectrum show biomarkers for mitochondrial problems.
Dr Richard E Frye’s review study has found biomarkers linking autism to mitochondrial dysfunction
Mitochondria produce the energy needed for cells to survive and function.
Child neurologist Dr Richard E Frye, of the Rossignol Medical Center in Arizona, led the research.
Mitochondria ‘central’ to autism
His team suggests mitochondria are ‘central’ to autism.
They say mitochondria contribute to abnormalities in brain development, thinking and other health problems.
These health issues include immune and gut dysfunction, and neurodevelopmental regression.
Autism is linked to mutations in mitochondrial DNA, Frye’s research found.
Biomarkers for mitochondrial dysfunction increase the likelihood of autism, says the medic.
Elevated levels of biochemical substances
The review study looked at 204 articles that analysed biomarkers for mitochondrial dysfunction in autism.
These studies found evidence of elevated levels of certain biochemical substances in the body. These substances included lactate, pyruvate, alanine and creatine kinase.
In an email, Frye wrote that “mitochondrial dysfunction can explain several important aspects of ASD (autistic spectrum disorder), including the systemic nature of the disorder, the genetic-environmental interaction, and the neurodevelopmental regression, especially when it occurs after a trigger”.
Frye says several studies have shown supplements to support mitochondria “are safe and improve ASD symptoms”.
Mitochondrial support
Biomedical charity Thinking Autism said Frye’s work adds to an “enormous body” of research connecting mitochondrial dysfunction and autism.
The charity says it has had reports of “marked improvements” in children’s core autism symptoms and other health problems after they were given mitochondrial support.
A spokesperson added: “This paper is further confirmation that at least some forms of autism may have a medical — and possibly treatable — underlying cause, and illustrates the potential harm in branding all autism as ‘identity’, and eschewing medical investigation.”
Frye published the new research in the scientific journal Neurobiology of Disease. The research is here.
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Published: 14 May 2024
