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, which suggests impacts to regulatory T cells (Tregs). Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sultanate (PFOS) are widespread environmental pollutants and induce developmental and immuno-toxicity. 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. Treg ex vivo function was decreased in male offspring at all doses of PFOA and Treg numbers were decreased in female offspring exposured to 2 mg/kg of PFOA. These data suggest that the functional capacity of Tregs may be undermined by developmental exposure to PFOA. Additional analysis will determine if PFOS induces similar effects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA559251
Entities
People
- Jamie C. Dewitt
- Qing Hu
Organizations
- East Carolina University