“The Potential Link Between High LDL Cholesterol Levels and Autism Spectrum Disorder”

Autistic spectrum disorder, often simply called autism, represents an association of several pathological conditions related to neuropsychic development, which have as common points difficulties both in verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as in relating to the environment (such as adopting repetitive gestures).

Autism can be observed since childhood and affects not only this stage of development, but also adult life. The diversity of the clinical picture and its severity may differ from one person to another, but the key elements can be easily identified.

Due to the impact that this neuropsychiatric pathology has on the quality of life, more and more studies are trying to identify its main causes, as well as potential risk and aggravating factors. So far, there is no clear cause-and-effect link, but several sources have been identified as potential triggers.

Blood lipid levels and their relationship to autism

Several studies recently carried out by clinics and medical universities around the world have analyzed the possible connection between the level of lipids in the body (lipid profile) and autism spectrum disorder (autism).

In order to be able to identify this potential connection and establish a cause-effect relationship or risk factor and predisposition, two different groups of study participants were used: children who did not receive a diagnosis of autism (considered healthy) and children already documented with this disease.

Thus, it was discovered that, among children with autism, the level of LDL colesterol (also called bad cholesterol) is increased compared to those who do not have this condition.

What is LDL cholesterol

Low density lipoprotein colesterolalso called LDL cholesterol for short, represents the majority fraction of cholesterol in the body.

Its name bad cholesterol comes from the negative impact it exerts on the cardiovascular system. Recently, it has been discovered that this negative impact can extend to other important body systems, thus becoming a potential risk factor in the development of autism.

Production mechanisms involved

Starting from the increased incidence of hypercholesterolemia found in people with autism, an attempt was made to identify a pathophysiological mechanism that could explain the connection between the two phenomena.

Since up to this point no single key mechanism could be discovered, several hypotheses have been formulated. One of these presupposes the existence of structural and functional abnormalities of cholesterol with an effect felt at the brain level (and, implicitly, at the level of neuropsychic development).

Another identified hypothesis highlights the pronounced inflammatory status, caused by a high level of LDL cholesterol. This inflammatory status influences the activity of several key body systems, one example being the neurological one.

Currently, the medical world continues to search for new mechanisms possibly involved and to identify the method by which the negative effects can be mitigated or even stopped.

Methods of treatment and prognosis

Given the fact that there is no well-established link between a high cholesterol level and the occurrence of autism, but only a high probability, a specific therapy aimed at reducing the high level of LDL cholesterol cannot be instituted at this time.

However, changing the lifestyle to a healthy one, both in terms of nutrition and physical effort, has an important role in reducing high cholesterol levels and preventing its further increase.

In conclusion, there is a suggestive link between an elevated LDL cholesterol level and the development of an autism spectrum disorder. Although the studies are still in their infancy and further research is needed to establish the exact pathophysiological mechanisms involved, this connection represents a step forward in reducing the incidence of autism.

Sursa foto: Shutterstock