Diagnostic testing for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is limited. ASD are defined as developmental disorders affecting social interactions and the presence of a range of other issues including problems with speech, cognitive impairment, and behavioral issues. It can be difficult to diagnose ASD, especially at an early age. ASD results from a combination of genetic (30-35%) and environmental (65-70%) factors. Detection and earlier diagnosis in children could enable faster treatment options.
In a recent study, researchers developed a biomarker-based blood and urine test for ASD. Blood and urine samples were taken from fasting children and tested for markers of protein glycation, oxidation, and nitration. Modified protein damaged by metabolic processes including oxidation and glycation were evaluated and used to predict ASD. Children with ASD had increased advanced glycation end products (AGEs), dityrosone (DT), Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML) and Nω-carboxymethylarginine (CMA). Additionally, there was a decrease in renal clearance of arginine and CMA. Changes in the plasma AGEs likely suggest dysfunctional metabolism and reduced renal clearance that could enable high sensitivity detection and diagnosis specificity for ASD. Further validation is needed but this could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention and potentially identify new causes of ASD.
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