Roman Pablo, Rueda-Ruzafa Lola, Cardona Diana, Cortes-Rodríguez Alda
Department of Nursing Science, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería.
Department of Nursing, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón.
Behav Pharmacol. 2018 Oct;29(7):654-663. doi: 10.1097/FBP.0000000000000428.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired communication and social interactions, and repetitive behavioural patterns. These patterns are believed to be dysfunctional symptoms in executive processing, which impact other cognitive functions such as attention or cognitive flexibility. In recent years, several studies have shown that certain intestinal bacteria may play a role in shaping cognitive networks encompassing emotional and social domains. A microbiota-gut-brain axis is known to exist, establishing several mechanisms by which microbiota may modulate brain development, function and behaviour, including immune, endocrine and neural pathways. As the aetiology of ASD is largely unknown, some studies have shown that intestinal bacteria may be involved in its pathogenesis. The aim of this review was to focus on the role of the gut-brain axis in ASD and, specifically, on its role in executive functions. First, we summarize the relationship between the gastrointestinal and cognitive symptoms of ASD patients. In addition, we highlight the evidence that supports and emphasizes the involvement of gut microbiota, and the putative underlying mechanisms in this population. Finally, we present evidence from preclinical and clinical studies on the modulation of microbiota and their effects on cognitive symptoms, specifically in relation to executive function. In conclusion, manipulation of microbiota could be a positive intervention to improve ASD symptoms. However, more research evaluating the role of microbiota in the cognitive symptoms ASD is needed.
自闭症谱系障碍（ASD）是一种神经发育障碍，其特征为沟通和社交互动受损以及重复行为模式。这些模式被认为是执行加工中的功能失调症状，会影响其他认知功能，如注意力或认知灵活性。近年来，多项研究表明，某些肠道细菌可能在塑造包括情感和社交领域在内的认知网络中发挥作用。已知存在微生物-肠道-脑轴，它建立了多种机制，通过这些机制微生物群可调节大脑发育、功能和行为，包括免疫、内分泌和神经途径。由于ASD的病因很大程度上未知，一些研究表明肠道细菌可能参与其发病机制。本综述的目的是关注肠道-脑轴在ASD中的作用，特别是其在执行功能中的作用。首先，我们总结了ASD患者胃肠道症状与认知症状之间的关系。此外，我们强调支持并强调肠道微生物群参与的证据以及该人群中可能的潜在机制。最后，我们展示了临床前和临床研究中关于微生物群调节及其对认知症状影响的证据，特别是与执行功能相关的证据。总之，操纵微生物群可能是改善ASD症状的一种积极干预措施。然而，需要更多研究来评估微生物群在ASD认知症状中的作用。
