Research 2023

A Potential Role for Neuroinflammation in ADHD - Summary:

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is thought to be associated with neuroinflammation. Various immune factors may contribute to this condition's pathophysiology, suggesting an altered immune response could be a potential cause. Genetic factors, exposure to environmental pollutants, maternal smoking, and alcohol use during pregnancy could instigate inflammation during the early postnatal period and childhood, increasing the risk for ADHD. There's also a comorbidity observed between ADHD and numerous autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Certain medications and genetic polymorphisms might also alter the inflammatory response in ADHD. However, dietary and natural compounds with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties could potentially alleviate inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and serve as alternative therapeutic interventions for ADHD. Despite these insights, more research is required, using new non-invasive tools and technologies, to definitively establish the role of neuroinflammation in ADHD.

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_15

Immunoregulatory and/or Anti-inflammatory Agents for the Management of Core and Associated Symptoms in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Narrative Review of Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials - Summary:

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with unclear causes, limited therapies, and a potential link to immune and inflammatory processes. This link offers potential pathways for new drug interventions. The evidence from several trials on the use of immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory agents, such as prednisolone, pregnenolone, celecoxib, minocycline, N-acetylcysteine, sulforaphane, and omega-3 fatty acids, suggests a beneficial effect on core ASD symptoms like stereotyped behavior, irritability, hyperactivity, and lethargy. These agents appear to suppress inflammation and restore immune balance, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear.

Key Points:

- ASD is linked to immune and inflammatory abnormalities, providing a potential new pathway for drug interventions.

- Treatment with immunoregulatory/anti-inflammatory agents may help manage core and associated symptoms of ASD.

- Evidence suggests these agents reduce inflammation and restore immune balance in ASD individuals.

- Further larger, more homogeneous trials with longer follow-ups are needed to confirm these findings.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40263-023-00993-x

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