The Role of Glial Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches

Title:The Role of Glial Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches

Volume: 24

Author(s): Aparna Inamdar, Bannimath Gurupadayya and Himanshu Sharma*

Affiliation:

• Department of Pharmacy, Teerthanker Mahaveer College of Pharmacy, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad (UP)-244001, India

Keywords: Autism, glial cells, neuroinflammation, therapeutics, myelination, biomarkers.

Abstract: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors. Emerging evidence highlights the significant role of glial cells, particularly astrocytes and microglia, in the pathophysiology of ASD. Glial cells are crucial for maintaining homeostasis, modulating synaptic function, and responding to neural injury. Dysregulation of glial cell functions, including altered cytokine production, impaired synaptic pruning, and disrupted neuroinflammatory responses, has been implicated in ASD. Molecular mechanisms underlying these disruptions involve aberrant signaling pathways, such as the mTOR pathway, and epigenetic modifications, leading to altered gene expression profiles in glial cells. Moreover, microglial activation and reactive astrocytosis contribute to an inflammatory environment that exacerbates neural circuit abnormalities. Understanding these molecular mechanisms opens avenues for therapeutic interventions. Current therapeutic approaches targeting glial cell dysfunction include anti-inflammatory agents, modulators of synaptic function, and cell-based therapies. Minocycline and ibudilast have shown potential for modulating microglial activity and reducing neuroinflammation. Additionally, advancements in gene editing and stem cell therapy hold promise for restoring normal glial function. This abstract underscores the importance of glial cells in ASD. It highlights the need for further research to elucidate the complex interactions between glial dysfunction and ASD pathogenesis, aiming to develop targeted therapies that can ameliorate the clinical manifestations of ASD.

Cite this article as:

Inamdar Aparna, Gurupadayya Bannimath and Sharma Himanshu*, The Role of Glial Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches, CNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets 2025; 24 () . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0118715273337007241115102118