Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Science - Department of Biotechnology

ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders that affects communication and behavior. The prevalence of these pervasive disorders has been estimated to be as high as 1 in every 45 individuals. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are common disorders associated with ASD patients, however, the underlying mechanisms are still unknown. Many studies have shown alterations in the composition of the fecal flora of the gut microbiome in patients with ASD. The gut microbiota has been proposed to influences brain development and behaviors through the neuroendocrine, neuroimmune, and autonomic nervous systems. Additionally, abnormal gut microbiota was reported to be associated with several diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ASD, and mood disorders. Recent research proposed that toxins produced by abnormal gut bacteria may trigger or worsen autism in some children. It is thought that these molecular signals largely originate from the microbiome and they play a crucial role in basic neurodegenerative processes such as affecting the permeability of blood-brain-barrier, myelination, neurogenesis, microglia maturation, and also modulates many aspects of animal behavior. Thus, focused analysis on the metaproteome of ASD patients together with host proteome interaction will provide new insights in understanding the role of the gut microbiota in the ASD

Issued also as CD