Age-Dependent Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Role of Key Bacterial Ratios
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a wide-ranging impact on individuals’ quality of life and development, and there is a critical need for greater awareness, early intervention, and comprehensive support strategies to effectively address the unique needs of those affected by ASD. Recent studies highlight the gut microbiome’s potential role in modulating ASD symptoms via the gut–brain axis, but specific microbial biomarkers remain unclear. This study aims to investigate differences in gut microbiota composition between ASD patients and neurotypical controls in a novel approach, specifically assessing ratios of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B), Actinobacteria/Proteobacteria (A/P), and Prevotella/Bacteroides (P/B) as potential biomarkers. Methods: We analyzed gut microbiome samples from 302 Bulgarian children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD (aged 2–19 years). Microbial ratios (F/B, A/P, and P/B) were calculated and compared against previously reported reference meta-analytic means from European neurotypical populations. The statistical significance of deviations was assessed using parametric (t-tests), non-parametric (Wilcoxon signed-rank tests), and proportion-based (binomial tests) methods. Effect sizes were quantified using Cohen’s d. Significant differences between ASD cases and neurotypical reference values were observed across several age groups. Results: Notably, children with ASD demonstrated significantly lower F/B and A/P ratios, with the…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 302 participants or records.
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