Low Plasma Progranulin Levels in Children with Autism
Author Information
Author(s): AL-Ayadhi Laila Y, Mostafa Gehan A
Primary Institution: King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Hypothesis
The study investigates the plasma levels of progranulin in children with autism compared to healthy controls.
Conclusion
Plasma progranulin levels were reduced in a subgroup of patients with autism.
Supporting Evidence
- Autistic children had significantly lower plasma progranulin levels than healthy controls.
- Reduced plasma progranulin levels were found in 65% of autistic children.
- There was no significant difference in plasma progranulin levels between mild to moderate and severe autism.
Takeaway
Kids with autism have lower levels of a protein called progranulin in their blood, which might be important for their brain health.
Methodology
Plasma levels of progranulin were measured using ELISA in 40 autistic patients and 40 healthy controls.
Limitations
The study suggests caution in interpreting the results until further investigations with larger populations are conducted.
Participant Demographics
The autistic group comprised 32 males and 8 females, aged 3 to 12 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p=0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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