New research at York University in Toronto strengthens the hypothesis that common chemicals in consumer goods is connected to a dramatic increase in autism
British Columbia researcher Dr Bruce Lanphear was lead author on a another recent study which also suggested such a link between chemicals in our environment and autistic behaviours.
The latest study from York University found that abnormal levels of lipid molecules in the brain during prenatal development can affect two key neural pathways which can trigger autism. They note that exposure to certain chemicals found in such things as cosmetics and over the counter medication can affect those lipid levels.
The study was published in the peer-reviewed journal Cell Communication and Signaling.
Professor Dorota Crawford in the Faculty of Health and a member of the York Autism Alliance Research Group says this is the first time such a link has been made that shows that an increase in a lipid (Prostaglandin E2) affects certain proteins which in turn have an effect on particular genes previously implicated in autism studies.
The connection between the lipid-protein-and stem cell genes “is important because this can change the course of early embryonic development,” she says. York U doctoral student Christine Wong adds, “As a result, this could affect how the brain is organized and wired.”
Autism is considered to be the primary disorder of brain development with symptoms ranging from mild to severe and including repetitive be. haviour, deficits in social interaction, and impaired language. Rates of autism have risen dramatically in just a few years time.
The researchers say this drastic increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disaster (ASD) cannot be attributed merely to better diagnostic tools and awareness.
Professor Crawford says, “It’s even more apparent from the recent literature that the environment might have a greater impact on vulnerable genes, particularly in pregnancy. Our study provides some molecular evidence that the environment likely disrupts certain events occurring in early brain development and contributes to autism.”
D Crawford Developmental Neuroscience Laboratory site (York U)
For reasons beyond our control, and for an undetermined period of time, our comment section is now closed. However, our social networks remain open to your contributions.