Research: “Effects of trace metal profiles characteristic for autism on synapses in cultured neurons”

According to recent research from Ulm University (Germany), having the incorrect dosage of metal ions may disrupt neuron and cell development, specifically neuronal synapse formation. Additionally, reports have shown a strong association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and an imbalance in normal dosages of metal ions. This study wanted to see if changing the metal dosages would help to restore proper synaptic formation. Scientists looked at in vitro neurons in the hippocampus and created a metal ion-dosage panel similar to that of an ASD patient. Scientists found that, while changing the levels of many metals did not have an effect, changing the levels of Zn helped restore synaptic formation to normal levels when beginning with a biometal profile representative of an ASD patient.