Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Autism

Post Reply New Topic

Mitochondrial dysfunction is becoming recognized as one of the most common metabolic abnormalities associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recent studies have also implicated oxidative stress and redox abnormalities as associated with ASD. Despite the fact that the mitochondria is both the source and target of reactive oxygen species resulting from abnormal redox metabolism, the connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and abnormal redox metabolism has not been investigated until now. A group of researchers led by Dr. Richard Frye, Director of the Autism Research Program at Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute, examined redox abnormalities in two sub groups of children with ASD, those with mitochondrial disease (MD) and those without any biological markers or symptoms of MD. Results showed that both ASD groups manifested abnormal redox and immune metabolism, but in different ways. The research also demonstrated differences between the two groups in clinical and developmental characteristics -- those with MD had reduced scores in communication and daily living skills. Interestingly, redox metabolism was relative to developmental characteristics of the ASD group with MD but not the ASD group without MD. These findings suggest that different subgroups of children with ASD have different redox abnormalities, which may arise from different sources. The findings also suggest it is important to identify children with ASD and MD as they may respond differently to specific treatments because of their specific metabolic profile.

The article can be found by searching for the author (Frye) and the article title (Redox metabolism abnormalities in autistic children associated with mitochondrial disease). Please let me know if you cannot find it and I will message you the link to public article (I am not able to post the link here.)

I have an Autism Spectrum Disorder, and no mitochondrial dysfunction.

You can type out the link.

Unfortunately I have not yet posted 5 items yet and so am not able to include links in my posts (This is a measure the site uses to prevent spam). I have tried posting the link again and am still not allowed to do so.

Very fascinating. Here's the link http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23778583

Here's a little information on mitochondria, to put this into perspective.

I think with ASDs in particular it's going to be hard to fully believe in a mitochondrial factor. ASDs are more prevalent in males, meaning that there should be more fathers than mothers affected, and the mitochondrial genome is only passed on by the mother. This caveat makes mitochondrial involvement in neuropsychiatric disorders rather puzzling genetically.

"Belief" is not a factor in research. Unless the mothers have the mutations too they are de novo mutations, meaning they arose in the affected person. Autistics have genomic instability, meaning we are very prone to mutations. There is absolutely nothing to "believe".

Dr. Richard Kellys research along with a Dr. Suzanne Goh are saying

L Carnatine, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin CoQ10, in the right balance can within 3 to 6 months can rebalance the biochemistry for proper mitochondrial function in people within the Autism umbrella.

I'm using mitospectra for my 18 year old son and I'm seeing excellent early indications that this making a difference. As a parent this is one of my favorite protocols because its so easy to implement.

I used a limited time holiday discount code SPECTRUM20 when ordering.

I don't understand all the science but I do know I am using some of these ingredients in my work out powders that I take before during and after the gym.

Not that I am having my son take this integrated vitamin for building muscle but he is gaining muscle mass density and he is of a slight build so its not terrible side effect.

I see early signs of improved capabilities and eye contact too.

I know I need to do at least 3 to 6 months to see the best results.

.I'm so excited about results I'm seeing so far I'm doing that I'm googling mitochondrial discussion forums to learn more.

Thanks guys!