Important details

Various neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorders, may be linked to an environmental factor, says the study’s lead author, Professor Haitham Amal from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The moment and duration of the pollutant’s effect on the body are of great importance. Increased sensitivity is observed during fetal development and early childhood, when critical neurodevelopmental processes occur, 24 Kanal reported with reference to SciTechDaily.

The article identifies several key ways air pollutants may affect the development of autism spectrum disorders (ASD):

• Nitrosative stress regulated by nitric oxide (NO).
• Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.
• Neurotransmitter system disorders.
• Epigenetic modifications.
• Interference with the endocrine system.
• Disorders of metabolic pathways.

Particularly worrying is the finding that fine particles, particularly PM2.5, as well as NO products, can penetrate the placenta and affect the development of the fetus’s brain. This finding raises important questions about protective measures for pregnant women living in highly polluted areas.

Research suggests that individuals with a genetic predisposition to autism may be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution. This interaction between genetic and environmental factors opens new avenues for understanding the complex etiology of ASD.
– says Professor Haitham Amal.

Laboratory experiments have shown that NO plays an important role in the development of ASD, but also demonstrate the critical role of this molecule and its derivatives in the brain.

In a separate review for this paper, graduate student Shashank Ojha added that scientists see the possibility of identifying biomarkers that would enable early identification of individuals at risk.

What does it give us?

The implications of this research extend not only to individual health but also to public policy.

• How can cities adapt their planning to protect vulnerable populations?
• What role can monitoring air quality play in prenatal care?
• What can be done to minimize risks for people with ASD biomarkers?

These issues are becoming more important as urbanization continues worldwide and the global prevalence of ASD reaches 1-1.5% of the population.

The research group emphasizes the need for new comprehensive studies examining the combined effects of multiple pollutants, especially at certain periods of development. Understanding these interactions may be crucial to the development of effective preventive strategies.