Altered vascular phenotype in autism:: Correlation with oxidative stress

Background: Autism is a neurologic disorder characterized by impaired communication and social interaction. Results of previous studies showed biochemical evidence for abnormal platelet reactivity and altered blood flow in children with autism. Objective: To evaluate the vascular phenotype in children with autism. Design and Main outcome Measures: Urinary levels of isoprostane F-2 alpha-VI, a marker of lipid peroxidation; 2,3-dinor-thromboxane B-2, which reflects platelet activation; and 6-keto-prostaglandin F-1 alpha, a marker of endothelium activation, were measured by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in subjects with autism and healthy control subjects. Setting and Subjects: Children with a clinical diagnosis of autism attending the Pfeiffer Treatment Center. Results: Compared with controls, children with autism had significantly higher urinary levels of isoprostane F-2 alpha-VI, 2,3-dinor-thromboxane B2, and 6-ketoprostaglandin F-1 alpha. Lipid peroxidation levels directly correlated with both vascular biomarker ratios. Conclusion: Besides enhanced oxidative stress, platelet and vascular endothelium activation also could contribute to the development and clinical manifestations of autism.