Study Establishes Connection Between Widespread Air Pollutant and Autism

December 3, 2024 TruthUSA

Nitric oxide is beneficial to human health in moderate levels; however, excessive exposure from environmental sources can pose risks.

As researchers delve into the significant increase in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) observed over recent decades, one potential environmental factor that has gained attention is air pollution.

Air pollution can trigger neuroinflammation, a prominent risk factor associated with numerous neurological conditions, including autism.

A review published on November 12 in the journal Brain Medicine highlights the heightened risk faced by developing brains regarding the harmful effects of air pollution. During pregnancy, expectant mothers inhale polluting particles, which enter the bloodstream, leaving the fetuses vulnerable due to their underdeveloped blood-brain barrier.

The review outlines the evidence linking air pollution to autism and proposes new strategies for treatment and diagnosis.

Researchers examined various pollutant particulates, revealing that smaller ones, particularly PM2.5, pose significant dangers. These tiny particles can pass through the placenta, impacting fetal brain development.

An additional critical finding was that early exposure to nitric oxide—commonly found in car exhaust—could also lead to complications.

The review’s principal author, Haitham Amal, is a globally recognized authority in cell signaling and brain disorders. He and his team recently became the first to conclusively link nitric oxide to autism pathogenesis.

Previous studies hinted at a potential connection between nitric oxide exposure and autism; however, Amal asserts those were merely correlational. His team’s research validated this through experimental means.

“We inhibited the enzymes responsible for nitric oxide production, and observed the behavioral consequences. This is the sole study in the existing literature that experimentally demonstrates the connection between nitric oxide and autism,” Amal shared with the Epoch Times.

These discoveries may extend beyond autism, as Amal indicates nitric oxide is involved in a molecular mechanism that could affect various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.

A Closer Look at Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is a prevalent air pollutant primarily generated by vehicular emissions and combustion of fossil fuels. The toxic effects of this colorless gas have been acknowledged for years.

Moreover, nitric oxide plays a vital role in our health, as the body synthesizes its own for cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune functions. For individuals seeking to enhance these functions, supplements and pharmaceuticals designed to boost the body’s nitric oxide production are available.

“Nitric oxide is an extremely important molecule, not only within the body but also in the brain. It plays a role in synaptic and neuronal functioning along with other processes,” Amal explained.

However, environmental exposure to nitric oxide presents different risks. Evidence shows it can induce oxidative stress, particularly in individuals susceptible to inflammatory disorders who appear more vulnerable to its effects.

To determine if nitric oxide exposure contributes to autism, Amal and his researchers analyzed samples from low-functioning children with ASD, transgenic mouse models, and in-vitro human platforms. This data establishes a strong link to the growing body of evidence indicating that both nitric oxide and its derivative, nitrogen dioxide, disrupt normal brain development during pregnancy and early childhood.

Moreover, researchers propose that individuals genetically predisposed to autism might be at greater risk from the harmful effects of nitric oxide. They suggest mutations in genes responsible for managing oxidative stress and regulating nitric oxide could amplify inflammatory responses.

Limiting Exposure

If nitric oxide exposure is a risk factor, minimizing it makes sense. Fortunately, levels have significantly decreased since 1980, as reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Researchers believe that reducing exposure could play a pivotal role in preventing non-genetic cases of ASD and enhancing public health outcomes. However, limiting exposure is particularly crucial during specific developmental periods.

“Exposure to these pollutants during pregnancy and early postnatal development poses substantial risks for ASD, as these phases are critical for brain development, including neuronal migration and myelination,” Amal and colleagues noted.

Additionally, Amal is working on developing a medication that inhibits nitric oxide production. Preclinical studies indicate that targeting nitric oxide synthesis can reverse ASD-like traits in animal models, and similar results have been observed in human stem cell samples.

“We believe this could be a fruitful strategy,” Amal remarked.

While the review lends additional support to the theory that air pollution might impact autism, Amal and his team highlight the importance of considering other confounding factors in future studies.

“Lifestyle factors, such as smoking—both active and passive—during pregnancy, also need to be taken into account,” the researchers emphasized. “It’s essential to consider residential environment and socioeconomic status, as impoverished areas are likely to experience higher pollution levels, increased vulnerability, and a greater risk of ASD.”

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