The study, published inNature Communications, adds to a growing body of research that shows agut-brain connectionin autism.
The analysis focused ontryptophan, an amino acid thatgut microbesconvert into various compounds, includingserotonin.
Tryptophan metabolites were linked to altered brain activity in areas involved in emotional and sensory processing.
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Researchers found a reduction of kynurenatea key metabolitein autistic children.
This compound helps protect the brain, and lower levels may increase vulnerability to behavioral and cognitive issues.
The gut microbiome could be one of those environmental factors.
There are probably many.
Its a small study that needs to be replicated.
Last week, Kennedy also said that his department will find out the root cause of autism by September.
Experts say the timeline is unrealistic, as much more research is needed to determine thevarious causes of autism.
In addition to the gut-brain connection, many factors are linked to autism.
Its very unlikely that there is going to be one cause.
2025;74(2):1-22. doi:10.15585/mmwr.ss7402a1
