How an Imbalance in Gut Bacteria Affects Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of conditions related to brain development, which affect social interactions and communication. The gut and brain work together closely, and this interaction may play a role in ASD—bacteria, that live in the gut, can influence brain development and may affect ASD symptoms. To further support this gut-brain connection, most people with ASD suffer from stomach problems. This article will tell you about research indicating that gut bacteria may affect brain functions like social behavior and emotion regulation, which have been linked to a part of the brain called the amygdala. A deeper understanding of how gut bacteria, the brain, and behavior interact could lead to therapies that improve both emotional and physical symptoms in individuals with ASD.
Authors
- Mohammad I. K. Hamad (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7413-0305)
- Lidya K. Yassin
- Shamsa H. Alshamsi
- Fatimetou Hreimou
- Salem Alyammahi
Publication Details
- Journal
- Frontiers for Young Minds
- Published
- 2025-08-19
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3389/frym.2025.1467097
- Primary Topic
- Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00