Csoka, A.B.; El Kouhen, N.; Bennani, S.; Getachew, B.; Aschner, M.; Tizabi, Y. Roles of Epigenetics and Glial Cells in Drug-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biomolecules2024, 14, 437.
Csoka, A.B.; El Kouhen, N.; Bennani, S.; Getachew, B.; Aschner, M.; Tizabi, Y. Roles of Epigenetics and Glial Cells in Drug-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biomolecules 2024, 14, 437.
Csoka, A.B.; El Kouhen, N.; Bennani, S.; Getachew, B.; Aschner, M.; Tizabi, Y. Roles of Epigenetics and Glial Cells in Drug-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biomolecules2024, 14, 437.
Csoka, A.B.; El Kouhen, N.; Bennani, S.; Getachew, B.; Aschner, M.; Tizabi, Y. Roles of Epigenetics and Glial Cells in Drug-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biomolecules 2024, 14, 437.
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease characterized by persistent deficits in social interaction and communication, repetitive movements, abnormal focusing on objects, or activity that can significantly affect the quality of life of the afflicted. Brain neuronal and glial cells have been implicated. It has a genetic component but can also be triggered by environmental factors or drugs. For example, prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) or acetaminophen (APAP) or ingestion of propionic acid (PPA) can increase the risk of ASD. Recently, epigenetic influences on ASD have been brought to the forefront of investigations on the etiology, prevention, and treatment of this disorder. Epigenetics refers to DNA modifications that alter gene expression without making any changes to the DNA sequence. Although an increasing number of pharmaceuticals and environmental chemicals are being implicated in the etiology of ASD, here we specifically focus on the molecular influence of the above-mentioned drugs on epigenetic alterations in neuronal and glial cells and their potential connection to ASD. It is concluded that a better understanding of these phenomena can lead to more effective interventions in ASD.
Medicine and Pharmacology, Neuroscience and Neurology
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