Association of zinc deficiency with gastro-intestinal abnormalities in ASD model

Details

TitleAssociation of zinc deficiency with gastro-intestinal abnormalities in ASD model

NameSauer and Grabrucker

Type:Biomedical Research

About

Many patients with autism have symptoms associated with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. A growing amount of research indicates that abnormalities in the GI system during development might be a factor contributing in the development of autism. We hypothesize that metal ion imbalances during pregnancy are linked to disturbances in the GI tract and may be an important factor in autism - associated pathology. To investigate gut-brain interaction in autism, we perform in vivo studies using models for zinc deficiency and in vitro studies using GI organoids. In analysing gut morphology, microbiome composition and inflammation we hope to understand underlying mechanism in order to find future therapeutic targets.