Elemental Profile of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders as a Biomarker of Autism

Based on a review of scientific literature, this article analyzes factors in the development of autism (autism spectrum disorder) in children. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of essential micronutrient imbalances and the effects of toxic elements. It is shown that autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a deficit in social interaction, limited interests, and a tendency toward stereotypical behavior. The causal factors of autism are not fully understood, reflecting the complex interaction between genetics and the environment. Autism is believed to arise from a genetic predisposition that is realized under adverse circumstances. The subjectivity of ASD diagnosis, based on behavioral responses, necessitates the inclusion of objective biomarkers. It is shown that the balance of chemical elements in the body significantly influences the development and progression of autism. Toxic elements, as well as a deficiency or excess of essential micronutrients (calcium, iron, selenium, zinc, and copper), have been shown to play a role in the development of ASD. Most of the reviewed publications focus on the role of toxic metals (mercury, cadmium, lead, aluminum, and arsenic). A review of the extensive literature on the link between ASD and excess mercury exposure yielded inconclusive results. Mercury exposure to ASD has been linked to the use of vaccines containing thimerosal, but the incidence of the disease continued to increase after thimerosal was removed or reduced from vaccine formulations. The toxic effects of aluminum on the brain have also been linked to the use of pediatric vaccines containing immune adjuvants. References to autism increased during the period when mercury was removed from vaccines, and the presence of aluminum adjuvant increased. According to the researchers, there is a negative correlation between ASD and aluminum, leading the authors to believe that aluminum may be a biomarker of autism in children. Further study of the elemental status of children with ASD will clarify the mechanisms of autism development, and the elemental characteristics of people with ASD may be a diagnostic marker of autism.