Metabolomic changes in children with autism

Table 4 The prevalence, contributing factors, impact, therapeutic implications, and research needs related to lipid metabolism abnormalities in individuals with autism spectrum disorder

Aspect	Lipid metabolism in ASD
Overview	Lipid metabolism involves the synthesis, breakdown, and transportation of fats, which are crucial for cell membranes and energy
Dyslipidemia in ASD	Abnormal lipid levels observed in children with ASD. Variations include elevated total cholesterol and LDL-C, reduced HDL-C, and increased triglycerides. Increased LDL-C to HDL-C ratio, a marker of cardiovascular risk
Factors contributing to abnormalities	Genetic variations in lipid metabolism-related genes. Syndromes like Smith–Melli–Opitz syndrome linked to lipid metabolism and neurodevelopmental delay. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are common in ASD, affecting lipid metabolism. Gut microbiota alterations and dietary factors are also implicated
Impact on ASD	Abnormal lipid metabolism can affect brain development, myelination, synaptogenesis, and neurotransmitter signaling in ASD. Disruptions may lead to oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuronal damage. Potential implications for cellular energy production and utilization in the brain
Therapeutic implications	Interest in lipid-based interventions for ASD, but effectiveness needs further research. Potential therapeutic targets to address lipid disorders and associated symptoms in ASD. Complex relationship between lipid disorders and ASD, influenced by genetic, environmental, and metabolic factors
Research needs	Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying lipid disorders in ASD. Investigation required into the effectiveness of lipid-based interventions on ASD symptoms and lipid profiles. Recognition that not all individuals with ASD have lipid abnormalities, and vice versa

ASD: Autism spectrum disorder; HDL-C: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol; LDL-C: low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol.