Blood biomarkers associated with autism spectrum disorder may provide early diagnosis

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a collection of neuropsychiatric disorders. ASD affects 1 in 87 in Qatar and is expected to increase. The high variability and heterogeneity of the symptoms makes diagnosis of ASD difficult and uncertain, particularly at the early stages of development. If detected early, clinical support can be given to promote optimal development and well-being of children with ASD and even achieve complete remission. The current method of diagnosing ASD is by observations and interviews made by experts in child development to assess child behavior, communication and cognition: the ADOS test. There is often delay in referral for expert diagnosis; delay is typically >18 months in Qatar and >4 years in EU and USA. The diagnostic accuracy is 60 - 70%. Mutations in proteins transporters of amino acids have been linked to some cases of ASD. We hypothesized that levels of amino acids in blood, including amino acids damaged by modification by sugars (glycation), oxidation and nitration may provide novel biomarker for diagnosis of ASD at very young age.