Serum Tryptophan, Tryptophan Catabolites and Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor in Subgroups of Youngsters with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

Increased BDNF production and changes in the metabolism of tryptophan are associated with many ASD characteristics, showing particularly strong associations with childhood autism and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Peripheral BDNF and tryptophan metabolism appear to take part in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders and their phenotypes.