Peptides' role in autism with emphasis on exorphins.

PROBLEM

The nature of the peptides found increased in urine from autism needs verification of their structure, especially those that show opioid activity.

METHODS

The peptides were separated on reverse phase C-18 HPLC in Trifluoroacetic acid-acetonitril gradients. Peaks eluting where synthetic opioids appear, and peaks that are common to most autistic children were analyzed by mass spectrometry and fragmentation pattern on a quadropole mass-spectrometer.

RESULTS

We could demonstrate exorphins in the urine from autistic children, and their length varied from one patient to the next.

CONCLUSION

Exorphins are found in urine of autistic children and may account for their symptoms.