Gastrointestinal microbiota and metabolite biomarkers in children with autism spectrum disorders

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Many affected individuals also display symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) disturbance, suggesting GI factors may play an important role in the pathogenesis of ASD and/or related complications. The current review will focus on evidence supporting a role for the GI microbiota and their fermentation products in the etiology and/or symptoms of ASD, and their potential use as biomarkers. GI-related biomarkers could potentially enable early identification of ASD at risk of GI disturbance, and thereby guide targeted interventions, potentially improving the health and quality of life of affected individuals. © 2014 Future Medicine Ltd