671 Behavioural, Structural and Chemical Changes Surrounding Brain Inflammation; the Common Pathway Underlying Autism

Abstract

Introduction: A causation model for Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has not yet been firmly established Characterised by a triad of impairments in social skills, verbal communication and behaviour, the condition has been recognised as having a strong inflammatory component Historically, the functional anatomy of the prefrontal cortex is well defined and its dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders has lead to the proposal of a number of psychological models identifying the impact of under development within the condition However, only recently have we begun to understand the structural and molecular implications underpinning the disease.

Methods: Using ICD-10 and DSM-IV classifications we review the diagnostic characteristics which compound the condition together with the current thinking on the roles of cytokines such as IL-1a, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-a, their effect on intracellular signaling cascades and ultimately their effect on cell ultrastructure.

Results: Here we collaborate the current understanding of a novel autistic triad consisting of the behavioural, chemical and ultrastructural balances in the autistic brain We demonstrate how they interact, concluding that these details are neither mutually exclusive nor mutually independent.

Conclusions: This model for autistic spectrum disorder demonstrates the requirement for a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of the condition and hope that the integration of this hypothesis will assist in the development of both diagnostic and therapeutic advances.

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