Exploring the surprising role of antibiotics, fatty acids, and toxic chemicals in predicting autism and ADHD

Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

Neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, communication disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been linked to gut microbiota disturbances during the first year of a child’s life.

Emerging research reveals that gut microbiome disruption during infancy significantly impacts a child’s future intellectual processing.

The Gut-Brain Connection

The human gut flora play a crucial role in neurological health, immune function, gastrointestinal (GI) health, and metabolism. Gut-brain communication occurs through various pathways using chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.

Microbes in the gut can produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine and GABA, which are vital for brain function.

Additionally, gut bacteria can influence neuroactive metabolites that impact behavior. For instance, certain strains of bacteria, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, have been shown to reduce anxiety in socially anxious folks.

Key Findings from the Study

A comprehensive study examined gut microbiota composition and other factors involved in developing a child’s nervous system during infancy. The researchers discovered several biological markers associated with future neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs). According to Professor Eric W. Triplett, the study’s co-author:

"The remarkable aspect of the work is that these biomarkers are found at birth in cord blood or in the child’s stool at one year of age, over a decade prior to the diagnosis."

How the study was conducted

For this study, over 16,000 humans were followed from birth into their twenties. During this period, 1,197 participants were diagnosed with ADHD, communication disorders, intellectual disabilities, or autism. The research examined substances such as amino acids, fatty acids, nicotine, and environmental toxins in the babies’ blood collected from the umbilical cord, and bacteria in the stool samples at one year of age.

The study found that infants with ear infections treated with antibiotics, which interfere with gut flora, in their first year of life were more likely to be diagnosed with NDs later on.

Additionally, the absence of Coprococcus (an anti-inflammatory bacterium) or the presence of antibiotic-resistant Citrobacter increased the likelihood of developing a neurodevelopmental disorder later in life. Professor Johnny Ludvigsson, who led the study, explained:

"We can see in the study that there are clear differences in the intestinal flora already during the first year of life between those who develop autism or ADHD and those who don’t. We’ve found associations with some factors that affect gut bacteria, such as antibiotic treatment during the child’s first year, which is linked to an increased risk of these diseases."

Deficits in Key Bacteria

Past studies have shown that antibiotics can alter microbiota composition, increasing the risk of type 1 diabetes, immune disorders, and rheumatoid arthritis in children. Dr. Angelica Ahrens, the study’s first author, highlighted:

"Coprococcus and Akkermansia muciniphila have potential protective effects. These bacteria were correlated with important substances in the stool, such as vitamin B and precursors to neurotransmitters which play vital roles in orchestrating signaling in the brain. Overall, we saw deficits in these bacteria in children who later received a developmental neurological diagnosis."

The Impact of Lifestyle Factors

The study also found that while breastfeeding had a protective effect, smoking during pregnancy and prenatal antibiotics elevated the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

Analysis of the cord blood samples revealed that infants with future ASD had low levels of fatty acids such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and high levels of PFAS. ALA is an omega-3 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to brain development. Conversely, PFAS are toxic chemicals added to foam, paper, and plastic products as flame retardants.

These substances can enter the body through the air, food packaging, and drinking water, causing damage to our immune system.

Final thoughts

The study underscores the importance of early gut health and its profound impact on neurodevelopment.

What is the role of antibiotics, fatty acids, and toxic chemicals in the risk of autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders in children?

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.

RESEARCH:

Infant microbes and metabolites point to childhood neurodevelopmental disorders

Angelica P. Ahrens, Tuulia Hyötyläinen, Joseph R. Petrone, Matej Orešič, Eric W. Triplett, Johnny Ludvigsson

Open AccessPublished:April 03, 2024DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.035