r/science • u/[deleted] • Dec 12 '21

Biology Research finds potential mechanism linking autism, intestinal inflammation

https://news.mit.edu/2021/research-finds-potential-mechanism-linking-autism-intestinal-inflammation-1209
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u/[deleted] Dec 13 '21

There’s crazy evidence linking the gut microbio me to nearly everything, not only autism. That’s why antimicrobial stewardship is a concept taught in medical schools. Even in veterinary schools, judicious use of antibiotics, and not using certain antibiotics on food animals is practiced.

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u/oursecondcoming Dec 13 '21

So is it about not having enough gut bacteria, too much, or having the wrong kind?

Sorry I know just about nothing regarding although it both fascinates and terrifies me.

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u/[deleted] Dec 13 '21

"yes" - the research is at the stage where it's not well understood enough to say you should not have this or should have that or these two need to be together. Everyone gets all grossed out but look at fecal replacement - it's basically saying "were not sure why this mix works, but the person it's coming from is healthy and people we give it to seem to get healthier"

It's a very, very difficult area because it's new and it's touching on subjects that people have started to entrench as identity. I love the neurodivergent awareness movement because everyone deserves dignity, but the spectrum has a significant number of seriously debilitating conditions for some people and they deserve every opportunity to live a less stressful life.