.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
Return
Research progress on the microbiota-gut-brain axis in autism spectrum disorder: a narrative review
.png){kind=icon}
OA
AI
S
Y
Y
S
D
C
J
Y
Y
DOI：10.3389/fmicb.2026.1824546.png)
.png){kind=icon}
Original request for help.png){kind=icon}
Share.png){kind=icon}
Save
Abstract
En 中文
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficits in social interaction and the presence of repetitive; stereotyped behaviors; often accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms. The prevalence of ASD is on the rise; and the lack of specific pharmacological treatments places a significant burden on families and society. However; the discovery of the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) offers new opportunities for research into ASD. The gut microbiota; a core component of the MGBA; engages in bidirectional communication with the central nervous system through neural; immune; and metabolic pathways. Dysregulation of the gut microbiota is closely associated with the pathogenesis and progression of ASD. Children with ASD often exhibit specific alterations in their gut microbiota; including an increased abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria; a decreased abundance of Bacteroidaceae; and abnormalities in short-chain fatty acid metabolism. These alterations are associated with neurotransmitter imbalances and impaired intestinal barrier function; which are thought to subsequently contribute to neuroinflammation. Given these insights; intervention strategies targeting the gut microbiota-such as probiotics/prebiotics supplementation; fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT); and gluten-free/casein-free diets-show promise in alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms and core behavioral deficits in children with ASD. This narrative review synthesizes the fundamentals of the MGBA; critically examines the mechanisms linking gut microbiota to ASD; discusses recent advances in related treatments and their methodological limitations; and aims to provide insights for future research and the potential development of precise; microbiota-based interventions for ASD.
Keywords:
gut microbiota
autism spectrum disorder
mechanism of action
microbiota-gut-brain axis
treatment strategies
Journal
IF:
4.5
Papers:
4.0W
Citations:
16.6W
Organization
Cited Papers