Pathophysiology
Nrf2 dysregulation
Redox imbalance and decreased anti-oxidant capacity is observed in an autistic child owing to decreased Nrf2 levels which manifests into their tendency of repetitive behavior.
Immune dysregulation/ neuroinflammation
The brains of autistic individuals have elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, activated microglia and astrocytes. This leads to neuroinflammation because of the overexpression of NF-κB.
Decreased neuronal autophagy
Dysregulation of autophagy contribute to the accumulation of abnormal proteins and damaged cellular components in the synaptic cleft, which could impact cognitive and learning capabilities of a child.
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Mitochondrial dysfunction and altered energy metabolism is quite evident in autistics which impairs the speech and communication of a child.
Synaptic dysfunction
Improper regulation of misfolded, partially denatured proteins in the synapse hinders the signal transmission across neurons. Disruptions in synaptic transmission can affect the efficiency of neural communication, potentially leading to atypical behaviour.