Research progress on the role of intestinal microbial metabolite p-cresol in autism spectrum disorder

VernacularTitle:肠道微生物代谢物对甲酚在孤独症谱系障碍中的作用研究进展
Author: Lingfei QIAN ¹ ; Lili ZHANG ; Yunshu ZHANG ; Kexin GENG ; Keqing LI
Author Information

1. 河北大学临床医学院，保定071000
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Autistic disorder; P-cresol; Etiology; Pathogenesis
From: Chinese Journal of Psychiatry 2022;55(6):475-480
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a serious neurodevelopmental disorder with multiple causes, different subtypes and various developmental tracks. Existing studies have shown that ASD may be related to genetic and environmental factors. Studies on the relationship between intestinal microbiota, its metabolites, and ASD have not yet formed a system. Intestinal microbiota and its metabolites may be a potential factor affecting the pathogenesis of ASD. P-cresol is a toxic small molecular metabolite, which can be produced through the degradation of tyrosine by intestinal flora in human body. The harmful effects of excessive p-cresol on specific areas of the central nervous system in susceptible children may be related to the etiology of ASD. Elevated levels of p-cresol in the human body may reshape intestinal flora, affect the function of dopamine neurons, and induce ASD-related behaviors. This study summarized the updated research about the potential role of p-cresol in the pathogenesis of ASD.