Fecal transplants for autism deliver success in clinical trials (2019)
In a 2019 clinical trial published in Scientific Reports, researchers at Arizona State University tested fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) on 18 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The treatment involved a 2-week course of oral antibiotics, a bowel cleanse, then daily FMT doses for 7-8 weeks. Results showed an 80% reduction in gastrointestinal symptoms and significant improvements in behavioral scores on the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC). Improvements persisted at 8-week and 2-year follow-ups. The study, led by Dr. James Adams, suggests that altering the gut microbiome can impact ASD symptoms. However, the trial was small and not placebo-controlled, so larger studies are needed. The findings have sparked interest in microbiome-based therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Highlights potential of microbiome interventions for neurological conditions, opening new research avenues.