Oral Microbiota Composition and Its Association with Gastrointestinal and Developmental Abnormalities in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is frequently accompanied by gastrointestinal disturbances, dietary selectivity, and altered stress responses, with growing evidence pointing to gut-brain axis involvement. While intestinal microbiota has been extensively studied, the role of the oral microbiota remains underexplored. This study investigates the associations between oral microbiota composition and behavioral, gastrointestinal, dietary, and neuroendocrine parameters in children with ASD. A total of 45 children aged 2-18 years comprised the study group. Data collection included oral swabs for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, salivary cortisol sampling, dietary records, and standardized behavioral assessments using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. A total of 363 microbial species across 11 phyla were identified. Significant correlations were observed between specific bacterial taxa and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), dietary patterns, salivary cortisol rhythms, and functioning. Children with FGIDs, food selectivity, or macronutrient imbalances exhibited enriched pro-inflammatory taxa (e.g., <i>Selenomonas</i>, <i>Megasphaera</i>), whereas those with typical cortisol secretion or higher adaptive functioning showed greater microbial diversity and abundance of health-associated genera (e.g., <i>Bifidobacterium dentium</i>). These findings suggest that oral microbiota profiles may reflect systemic physiological and neurobehavioral traits in children with ASD. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal relationships and support the development of microbiota-targeted interventions.