The Dynamics of Autism Spectrum Disorders: How Neurotoxic Compounds and Neurotransmitters Interact

Ilona Quaak, Madeleine R. Brouns and Margot Van de Bor
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Ilona Quaak: Health and Life Sciences, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University, De Boelelaan 1085 T-634, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Madeleine R. Brouns: Health and Life Sciences, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University, De Boelelaan 1085 T-634, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Margot Van de Bor: Health and Life Sciences, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University, De Boelelaan 1085 T-634, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands

IJERPH, 2013, vol. 10, issue 8, 1-25

Abstract: In recent years concern has risen about the increasing prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Accumulating evidence shows that exposure to neurotoxic compounds is related to ASD. Neurotransmitters might play a key role, as research has indicated a connection between neurotoxic compounds, neurotransmitters and ASD. In the current review a literature overview with respect to neurotoxic exposure and the effects on neurotransmitter systems is presented. The aim was to identify mechanisms and related factors which together might result in ASD. The literature reported in the current review supports the hypothesis that exposure to neurotoxic compounds can lead to alterations in the GABAergic, glutamatergic, serotonergic and dopaminergic system which have been related to ASD in previous work. However, in several studies findings were reported that are not supportive of this hypothesis. Other factors also might be related, possibly altering the mechanisms at work, such as time and length of exposure as well as dose of the compound. Future research should focus on identifying the pathway through which these factors interact with exposure to neurotoxic compounds making use of human studies.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder; ASD; neurotoxic exposure; organochlorine; organophosphate; phthalate; neurotransmitter; GABA; glutamate; serotonin; dopamine (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2013
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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