Correlation between hedgehog (Hh) protein family and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Author: Halepoto, D. M., Bashir, S., Zeina, R., & Al-Ayadhi, L. Y.
Source:
J Coll Physicians Surg Pak, 25(12), 882-885.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the correlation of Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), Indian Hedgehog (IHH), and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). STUDY DESIGN: An observational, comparative study. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY: Autism Research and Treatment Center, Al-Amodi Autism Research Chair, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 2011 to May 2012. METHODOLOGY: Serum levels of SHH, IHH and BDNF were determined in recently diagnosed autistic patients and age-matched healthy children (n=25), using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was used for the assessment of autistic severity. Spearman correlation co-efficient 'r' was determined. RESULTS: The serum levels of IHH and SHH were significantly higher in autistic subjects than those of control subjects. There was significant correlation between age and IHH (r = 0.176, p = 0.03), BDNF and severe IHH (r = 0.1763, p = 0.003), and severe BDNF and severe SHH (r = 0.143, p < 0.001). However, there were no significant relationships among the serum levels of SHH, IHH and BDNF and the CARS score, age or gender. CONCLUSION: The findings support a correlation between SHH, IHH and BDNF in autistic children, suggesting their pathological role in autism.