Autism and the Effects of Serotonin

By Jody Smith HERWriter

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Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by problems with interpersonal communication, repetitive behavior and social interaction. Signs and symptoms of autism generally make their appearance during the years of early childhood.

A young child may become withdrawn or unresponsive to social situations and one-on-one contacts. Autism may be accompanied by sensory disturbances, seizures and mental retardation.

Higher than normal levels of serotonin may contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorders. According to The National Autistic Society in the U.K., between 30 percent and 50 percent of children with autism have higher than normal blood serotonin levels.

It appears that children with autism produce an overabundance of serotonin and their brains aren't able to utilize it effectively.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that contributes to the healthy development of the central nervous system. At healthy levels, it is best known for its enhancement of well-being and improvement of mood.

Serotonin has significant effects on sensory perception, in the functions of sensation, sight, sound, smell and taste.

Serotonin also affects regulation of body temperature and energy levels. It influences aggression, sleep and social behavior.

The June 6, 2006 issue of Current Biology reported that research from the University of Pennsylvania indicated that serotonin also affects quality of sleep.

Serotonin is manufactured by the body from an amino acid called tryptophan. Foods high in tryptophan are bananas, pecans, pineapples, plums and tomatoes as well as breads, pastas, some cheeses, nuts and seeds. Avoiding these foods can help to reduce serotonin levels.

Research out of the UT Health Science Center San Antonio examined the role played by serotonin in autism spectrum disorders. Mice that displayed behaviors similar to those seen in autism were studied.

These behaviors improved after the administering of an anti-anxiety / antidepressant adjuvant medication called buspirone. The term "adjuvant" means that it enhances the efficacy of other medications. Buspirone caused more serotonin to be transmitted between neurons because buspirone mimics the effect of the neurotransmitter on receptors.

The mice treated with buspirone spent more time with an unfamiliar mouse, in social behavior like sniffing the new mouse, than did the untreated mice.

It should be noted that possible side effects of buspirone are constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain and vomiting. It can cause both fatigue and difficulty sleeping. People taking buspirone may experience weakness, numbness and nervousness.

Symptoms like blurred vision, itching, irregular heartbeat and skin rash should be checked out by a doctor at once.

Resources:

Autism
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/autism.html

Facts About Serotonin
http://www.ehow.com/about_5387546_serotonin.html

Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders)
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/autism/complete-index.shtml

Serotonin Plays Role in Many Autism Cases, Studies Confirm
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110224121940.htm

Serotonin and autism spectrum disorders
http://www.autism.org.uk/living-with-autism/approaches-therapies-and-interventions/medical-interventions/serotonin-and-autism-spectrum-disorders.aspx

Buspirone
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a688005.html

Visit Jody's website and blog at http://www.ncubator.ca and http://ncubator.ca/blogger

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.