Contribution of lipid Peroxidation to Social Behaviors in individuals with autism spectrum disorders

The study investigated the role of lipid peroxidation in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by examining 18 individuals with ASD and 8 healthy controls. It found that individuals with ASD had higher plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and a higher DHA/omega-6 PUFA arachidonic acid ratio, along with lower levels of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). These biochemical changes were associated with higher scores on the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), indicating more severe social impairments. The study suggested that the DHA/ARA ratio and decreased SOD levels, linked to lipid peroxidation, might contribute to social behavior issues in ASD.