The Immune System, Cytokines, and Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorder OPEN ACCESS
Anne Masi1 • Nicholas Glozier1 • Russell Dale2 • Adam J. Guastella1
1Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2050, Australia
2Childrens Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2145, Australia
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental condition characterized by variable impairments in communication and social interaction as well as restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Heterogeneity of presentation is a hallmark. Investigations of immune system problems in ASD, including aberrations in cytokine profiles and signaling, have been increasing in recent times and are the subject of ongoing interest. With the aim of establishing whether cytokines have utility as potential biomarkers that may define a subgroup of ASD, or function as an objective measure of response to treatment, this review summarizes the role of the immune system, discusses the relationship between the immune system, the brain, and behavior, and presents previously-identified immune system abnormalities in ASD, specifically addressing the role of cytokines in these aberrations. The roles and identification of biomarkers are also addressed, particularly with respect to cytokine profiles in ASD.
Keywords
Autism Spectrum Disorder,Cytokine,Immune system
