A new biological key to autism: A Japanese study suggests a possible prenatal cause

A recent study by researchers at Fukui University in Japan has identified a possible link between certain fatty acids in umbilical cord blood and the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This finding could mark a decisive advance in early diagnosis, understanding its biological causes, and potentially preventive measures during pregnancy.

A Promising Finding: Umbilical Cord and Autism Connection

The study found a significant association between levels of dihydroxylated fatty acids (diHETrE) in umbilical cord blood and later autism symptoms. Published in Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, it analyzed blood samples from 200 newborns, who were later evaluated at age six for ASD symptoms and adaptive functioning.

Results showed elevated levels of one metabolite, 11,12-diHETrE, linked to greater social interaction difficulties, while low levels of 8,9-diHETrE related to repetitive or restrictive behaviors. Remarkably, this link was stronger in girls than boys, potentially opening a new gender-focused research line.

Professor Hideo Matsuzaki, the study leader, explained that these compounds have inflammatory properties, and an imbalance during pregnancy could disrupt fetal neurological development. This bolsters the idea that certain prenatal factors significantly influence autism risk.

Can Autism Be Predicted or Prevented from Birth?

The study also suggests an innovative path: intervening during pregnancy. If future research confirms these results, it might be possible to reduce autism risk by regulating these metabolites through diet, medications, or other methods during gestation. However, the researchers caution that this is just a possibility requiring much more investigation before preventive treatments are proposed.

For now, this discovery better elucidates autism’s complex biological origins and provides a valuable tool for early diagnosis. It also boosts the search for reliable biological markers to offer personalized support from the earliest days of life.

Science Lighting the Way

Though not definitive, this finding represents real hope for thousands of families. Understanding that autism may have a partially detectable origin at birth brings us closer to faster diagnoses, more effective supports, and perhaps prevention in the future. Science doesn’t have all the answers yet, but studies like this bring us nearer.

Reference:

Arachidonic acid-derived dihydroxy fatty acids in neonatal cord blood relate symptoms of autism spectrum disorders and social adaptive functioning: Hamamatsu Birth Cohort for Mothers and Children (HBC Study). Link.