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Open Access 01-10-2017 | Original Article

Tryptophan status in autism spectrum disorder and the influence of supplementation on its level

Authors: Joanna Kałużna-Czaplińska, Jagoda Jóźwik-Pruska, Salvatore Chirumbolo, Geir Bjørklund

Published in: Metabolic Brain Disease | Issue 5/2017

Abstract

Recent reports show that the worldwide incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is dramatically increasing, although ASD etiology and pathogenesis are still far to be fully elucidated. Some dietary-derived essential compounds, such as the amino acid tryptophan, appear to be impaired in patients with ASD. Tryptophan (Trp) plays a significant role in the human organism and serves as a precursor for a wide range of bioactive compounds, including major neurotransmitters. Research indicates that tryptophan might be deficient in subjects with ASD. Deficiency in the tryptophan level can be retrieved by investigating Trp levels or its major metabolite kynurenine in urines. The purpose of the present study is to quantify tryptophan content in urine samples (n = 236) of ASD patients, who underwent a supplemented dietary panel with B vitamins and magnesium, compared to controls (without this diet regimen). The samples were analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Additionally, the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and the level of this amino acid in urine was accomplished. Basic parameters of urine samples were also evaluated. Statistical evaluations in the concentration of tryptophan in ASD patients with different severity of symptoms were reported. A significant difference in tryptophan levels in all groups was observed. Supplementation with B vitamins and magnesium has an influence on the Trp concentration. Furthermore, no correlation between BMI and tryptophan levels was found. These results assess that the Trp level in ASD subjects is critical and that intake of B vitamins and magnesium with diet might influence its metabolic homeostasis.

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Title: Tryptophan status in autism spectrum disorder and the influence of supplementation on its level
Authors: Joanna Kałużna-Czaplińska
Jagoda Jóźwik-Pruska
Salvatore Chirumbolo
Geir Bjørklund
Publication date: 01-10-2017
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Metabolic Brain Disease / Issue 5/2017
Print ISSN: 0885-7490
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7365
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11011-017-0045-x

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Tryptophan status in autism spectrum disorder and the influence of supplementation on its level

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

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