Publication
Title
Faulty serotonin DHEA interactions in autism: results of the 5-hydroxytryptophan challenge test
Author
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Autism is accompanied by peripheral and central disorders in the metabolism of serotonin (5-HT). The present study examines plasma dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEA-S) and the cortisol/DHEA-S ratio following administration of L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), the direct precursor of 5-HT, to autistic patients. METHODS: Plasma DHEA-S levels were determined both before and after administration of 5-HTP or placebo, on two consecutive days in a single blind order in 18 male autistic patients and 22 matched healthy controls. RESULTS: The 5-HTP-induced DHEA-S responses were significantly higher in autistic patients than in controls. In baseline conditions, the cortisol/DHEA-S ratio was significantly higher in autistic patients than in controls. Discussion: The results suggest that autism is accompanied by a major disequilibrium in the serotonergic system. The increased Cortisol (neurotoxic) versus DHEA-S (neuroprotective) ratio suggests that an increased neurotoxic potential occurs in autism. CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that a disequilibrium in the peripheral and central turnover of serotonin and an increased neurotoxic capacity by glucocorticoids are important pathways in autism.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Neuroendocrinology letters. - Weinheim
Publication
Weinheim : 2008
ISSN
0172-780X
Volume/pages
29 :3 (2008) , p. 385-390
ISI
000257677800017
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 25.05.2009
Last edited 23.08.2022
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