Evidence of microglial activation in autism and its possible role in brain underconnectivity

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Evidence of microglial activation in autism and its possible role in

brain underconnectivity

<http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online & aid=863289\

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I. a and Janet K. Kern

Neuron Glia Biology, FirstView Article : pp 1-9

Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2012

Evidence indicates that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

suffer from an ongoing neuroinflammatory process in different regions of

the brain involving microglial activation. When microglia remain

activated for an extended period, the production of mediators is

sustained longer than usual and this increase in mediators contributes

to loss of synaptic connections and neuronal cell death. Microglial

activation can then result in a loss of connections or

underconnectivity. Underconnectivity is reported in many studies in

autism. One way to control neuroinflammation is to reduce or inhibit

microglial activation. It is plausible that by reducing brain

inflammation and microglial activation, the neurodestructive effects of

chronic inflammation could be reduced and allow for improved

developmental outcomes. Future studies that examine treatments that may

reduce microglial activation and neuroinflammation, and ultimately help

to mitigate symptoms in ASD, are warranted.