Maria Maranò
Biography
Degree in Medicine and Surgery, specialisation in paediatrics, free choice paediatrician USL Modena. Practised at the Community Paediatrics of Mirandola in the territorial paediatric vaccination service. Expert in Clinical Homeopathy, Homeopathic Immuno-pharmacology, Homotoxicology, Systemic Medicine. Lecturer in courses and seminars in Homeopathy and Complementary Medicine, AIMES lecturer in Systemic Paediatrics. An expert in alterations of the intestinal microbiota, she has for many years carried out her clinical-therapeutic activity in the management of paediatric gastrointestinal pathologies, particularly in autism spectrum disorders linked to neuroinflammation and dysregulation of the gut-brain axis.
Abstract
We will explore the interaction between neurodevelopmental disorders and metabolomics. This omics science analyses metabolites in biological samples providing insights into metabolic pathways and their dysregulation. Autism spectrum biomarkers can be amino acids, fatty acids, neurotransmitters. Metabolic pathways in autism spectrum disorders include alterations in glycolysis, increased oxidative stress, disruption of lipid metabolism and dysregulation of neurotransmitter synthesis. Of fundamental importance in these alterations is the study of the gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in brain development and function (gut-brain axis). Dysbiosis or imbalance of the gut microbiota can lead to a metabolic alteration that contributes to the development of ASD; it can also promote chronic inflammation implicated in the development of the disease or its aggravation. Combining microbiota screening with metabolomics testing is therefore indispensable today, as some metabolites can directly interfere with mitochondrial activity by damaging and hindering key metabolic pathways. The metabolomics test becomes a powerful tool in aiding the diagnosis of the Autistic Spectrum by accelerating therapeutic courses and intervening with them in a personalised manner.
