Children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have altered microbial populations in their digestive tracts, which could pave the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities, according to a new study. Fecal samples were taken from 1,627 children from Hong Kong, some who had autism and others who didn’t. The children were aged 1 to 13 years, with nearly 25 percent females.
Researchers discovered that “14 archaea, 51 bacteria, 7 fungi, 18 viruses, 27 microbial genes, and 12 metabolic pathways were altered” in autistic children. “This study provides compelling evidence of the gut microbiome’s role in ASD and highlights the potential for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches,” Prof. Qi Su, an author of the study, told The Epoch Times in an email.
Researchers proposed that the gut microbiome could become a non-invasive diagnostic tool for autism. Mr. Qi pointed out that autism is typically diagnosed during early childhood, making an analysis of gut microbiome “particularly relevant” among this age group.
Children with autism often exhibit gastrointestinal issues, with recent research suggesting that gut health issues could be linked to changes in microbial communities, he said. “Understanding these associations can help in developing early diagnostic tools and targeted therapies.” “Specific microbial imbalances, known as dysbiosis, have been consistently observed in individuals with ASD.
These imbalances can affect the production of metab.