Research: Autism: An Emerging ‘Neuroimmune Disorder’ in Search of Therapy

Authored by Theoharides, TC, Kempuraj D., and Redwood L. in Expert Opinions in Pharmacotherapy, Volume 10, Issue 3, p. 2127-2143, (2009).

Article summary (posted Dec 4, 2009):

Scientists are learning that the immune system may contribute to autism symptoms, and may be a good target for autism therapies.

The immune system is the system in the body that fights infections. Scientific evidence is building that tells us that the immune system might contribute to some autism symptoms. Studies show that people with autism have signs of inflammation (turned-up immune system), including inflammation in the brain. Some people with autism had antibodies (immune-active proteins) against brain proteins. If the immune system is important, new drug therapies to help balance the immune system might be helpful.

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You can access the original abstract and the complete paper is sometimes available for free via Google Scholar (look for entries that say "PDF" or "HTML" on the right side of the page).
antibodies, autism, balance, drug, evidence-based medicine (EBM), immune system, immunoglobulin, inflammation, pharmacotherapy, scientific evidence, therapy
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