Official Title
The Role of Epigenetic Modifications in Autism Spectrum Disorder Through DNA Methylation
Brief Title
The Role of Epigenetic Modifications in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Protocol ID
NCT03152838
Lead Sponsor
Assiut University
Brief Summary
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired
social communication and repetitive or stereotyped behaviors. According to the World
Health Organization , the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder is one person in 160.
Detailed Description
Genetic and non-genetic factors would contribute to the development of autism. However,
the molecular mechanisms of ASD are not clear and successful treatments are still under
research. Autism Spectrum Disorder can occur due to exposure to environmental pollutants
which lead to epigenetic changes like DNA methylation, acetylation and post-translational
modifications. However, the role of epigenetic changes in Autism Spectrum Disorder is
still debated.
Epigenetic mechanisms represent a link through which environmental factors interact with
the genetic factors resulting in modification of Autism Spectrum Disorder risk through
changes in gene expression. DNA methylation and histone deacetylation are two major
epigenetic mechanisms that regulate the gene expression at successive stages of brain
development.
Brain derived neurotrophic factor is responsible for brain development. Altered BDNF
levels and expression may be closely associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder. . Glial
fibrillary acidic protein is the hallmark intermediate filament protein in astrocytes,
the main type of glial cells in the central nervous system. Interestingly, Glial
fibrillary acidic protein is a marker of astroglial activation and the recent data
indicated that Glial fibrillary acidic protein could be implicated in the pathophysiology
of autism. However, the underlying mechanisms for the role of brain derived neurotrophic
factor and glial fibrillary acidic protein in autism spectrum disorder are poorly
understood.
Study Period
-
Enrollment Count
40 participants
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
1. - All enrolled children with Autism Spectrum Disorder will be:
1. Exhibit symptoms within the typical triad of autistic traits: communication
impairment, social deficits, and ritualistic interests.
2. Drug-naïve.
2. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and controls will be 2-6 years old.
Exclusion Criteria:
The control subjects will also clinically examined by the psychiatrist to exclude any
sub-clinical autistic features. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and controls will
excluded from the study if
1. They receive treatment for any reason.
2. -Endocrinological disease, mental retardation, communication disorder, psychotic
disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disorders seen in
the children or their family members.
Filters
Autism Spectrum Disorder
UNKNOWN
CHILD