Immunopathogenesis in Autism: Regulatory T-Cells and Autoimmunity in Neurodevelopment
Abstract
An immunopathology reported in some autistic patients is development of autoantibodies against brain-specific proteins, suggesting impacts to regulatory T cells (Tregs). Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sultanate (PFOS) are environmental pollutants that induce developmental and immunotoxicity. Our hypothesis is that developmental exposure to PFOA or PFOS will affect number and/or function of Tregs and increase autoimmune risk in offspring. In immunocompetent male and female offspring exposed to PFOA or PFOS during gestation and lactation, splenic Treg number and function, serum markers of autoreactivity, and levels of myelin basic protein and T cell infiltration in the cerebella were evaluated. Notable findings included alterations to splenic Treg number and splenic Treg ex vivo function after developmental exposure to either compound. These data suggest that the number of Tregs or the functional capacity of Tregs may be altered by developmental exposure to PFOA of PFOS. However, autism risk cannot be determined from these data alone.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA559241
Entities
People
- Jamie Dewitt
Organizations
- East Carolina University