Potential natural products for the management of autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Autism in a broader sense is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which frequently occurs during early childhood and can last for a lifetime. This condition is primarily defined by difficulties with social engagement, with individuals displaying repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Numerous neuroanatomical investigations on autistic children have revealed that their brains grow atypically, resulting in atypical neurogenesis, neuronal migration, maturation, differentiation, and degeneration. Special education programs, speech therapy, and occupational therapy have all been used to address autism-related behavioral problems. While widely prescribed antidepressant drugs, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and stimulants have demonstrated response in autistic individuals. However, these medications do not fully reverse the core symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The adverse reactions of ASD medicines and an increased risk of developing various other problems, such as obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and thyroid disorders, prompted the researchers to investigate herbal medicines for the treatment of autistic individuals. Clinical trials are now being done to establish the efficacy of alternative techniques based on natural substances and to understand better the context in which they may be used to treat autism. This review of literature will look at crucial natural compounds derived from animals and plants that have shown promise as safe and effective autism treatment strategies.

Keywords: autism; dietary supplement; natural products; neurodevelopmental disorder; neurotherapeutics.

Figure 1

The figure shows the potential risk factor associated with ASD, such as the release of cytokines, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neurotransmission dysregulation, and environmental toxins. It has been seen that the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, which causes inflammation, influences the development of ASD. The elevated levels of oxidative stress lead to mitochondrial dysfunction through disrupted energy regulation. Impaired mitochondrial function, neurotransmission, and prolonged exposure to environmental toxins are linked with abnormal brain development, causing ASD. ASD, autism spectrum disorder. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]

Figure 2

Autism affects the cerebellum, marked by blue color, and in the cerebellum, RNF8 protein is found. It has been seen that the absence of the RNF8 gene leads to impaired learning skills. GABA neurotransmitter is involved in autism, which natural products can balance. In preclinical and clinical trials reduced the negative symptoms and showed positive responses in mice (movement) and better speech, eye contact, and improved social skills in children and adults. [Color figure can be viewed at wileyonlinelibrary.com]