Altered cytokine profiles and elevated lactate levels in children with autism spectrum disorder: indications of a dysregulated immune-metabolic network?

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties in social communication and restricted, repetitive behavior. The etiology and pathophysiology of ASD remain largely unknown; however, a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors is widely assumed. More recently, altered cytokine/chemokine profiles and a potential vulnerability to mitochondrial alterations have been proposed.