Inflammation and Neuro-Immune Dysregulations in Autism Spectrum Disorders

Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2018 Jun 4;11(2):56. doi: 10.3390/ph11020056.

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction and restricted-repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Strong inflammation states are associated with ASD. This inflammatory condition is often linked to immune system dysfunction. Several cell types are enrolled to trigger and sustain these processes. Neuro-inflammation and neuro-immune abnormalities have now been established in ASD as key factors in its development and maintenance. In this review, we will explore inflammatory conditions, dysfunctions in neuro-immune cross-talk, and immune system treatments in ASD management.

Keywords: autism; inflammation; macrophages; monocytes; neuro-immune system.

Publication types

  • Review