In a recent study published in Nature Microbiology , a group of researchers investigated the associations between multikingdom gut microbiome components and functional markers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social, cognitive, and behavioral impairments) through metagenomic sequencing of children's fecal samples. ASD causes are believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in ASD by modulating the gut-brain axis and neuroimmune networks.
Altered gut microbiota compositions have been observed in children with ASD, and interventions like fecal microbiota transplants from healthy donors have shown symptom improvements. Most research has focused on bacterial components, but new metagenomic technologies reveal the importance of studying archaea, fungi, and viruses. Further research is needed to fully understand the multikingdom interactions and their contributions to ASD pathogenesis.
In the present study, children under 12 years old, both neurotypical and with ASD, were recruited from the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinic between December 2021 and December 2023. ASD diagnosis was based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria. Neurotypical children were matched by age and sex and screened using the Chinese Autism Spectrum Quotient Child Version.
Exclusions included indiv.
