Specificity of gut microbiota in children with autism spectrum disorder in Slovakia and its correlation with astrocytes activity marker and specific behavioural patterns.

Abstract Recent research suggests the involvement of bidirectional gut-brain axis in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of this study was to establish the role of changed gut microbiota in behavioural and gastrointestinal manifestations, but also in astrocyte activation in children with ASD. Distinct faecal microbiota in children with ASD was found to be more heterogeneous compared to that in neurotypical children. Different bacterial abundance and correlation with behavioural and GI manifestations revealed several bacterial genera possibly important for ASD. Microbial-neuronal cross talk could be accomplished through S100B, released by glial cells, activated by low grade inflammation. More complex studies are required to understand ASD pathogenesis.