Background:
There is evidence that changes in neuro-immune responses coupled with dysfunctions
in serotonin metabolism underpin the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
Objective:
This study aimed to delineate whether ASD subgroups or characteristics show aberrations
in tryptophan and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) metabolism.
Methods:
65 individuals with ASD (diagnosed according to ICD criteria) and 30 healthy control patients
were included. Measured were serum levels of tryptophan, kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KA), quinolinic
acid (QA), BDNF and PRO-BDNF and total blood 5-HT and 5-OH-tryptophan (5-HTP).
Results:
Elevated BDNF levels and lower tryptophan and KA levels were characteristics of both
childhood autism and intellectual disability disorder, whilst elevated tryptophan and lower 5-HT synthesis
were hallmarks of Asperger syndrome. A pathological MRI was associated with elevated tryptophan
and lowered KA. Abnormal EEG results and dysmorphology were both associated with an elevated
BDNF/ PRO-BDNF ratio. Any brain pathology and gastro-intestinal symptoms were accompanied
by lowered KA.
Conclusions:
Increased BDNF production and changes in the metabolism of tryptophan are associated
with many ASD characteristics, showing particularly strong associations with childhood autism and
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Peripheral BDNF and tryptophan metabolism appear to
take part in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders and their phenotypes.
Serum Tryptophan, Tryptophan Catabolites and Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor in Subgroups of Youngsters with Autism Spectrum Disorders
