Hyperserotoninemia and altered immunity in autism

J Autism Dev Disord. 2006 Jul;36(5):697-704. doi: 10.1007/s10803-006-0100-7.

Abstract

One of the most consistent biological findings in autism is elevated whole blood serotonin (5-HT) levels found in about 1/3 of cases. Immune abnormalities are also commonly observed in this disorder. Given 5-HT's role as an immunomodulator, possible connections between 5-HT and immune abnormalities in autism are explored in this review. Areas of focus include hyperserotoninemia and cellular immune function, autoantibodies to 5-HT receptors, and 5-HT's role in autoimmunity. Further research is needed to determine the interactions between neuropsychiatric and immune dysfunction in autism and related disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / blood
  • Autistic Disorder / immunology*
  • Autoantibodies / blood
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Cellular
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / etiology
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / immunology
  • Reference Values
  • Serotonin / blood*

Substances

  • Autoantibodies
  • Serotonin