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Mumbai Autism Trial: Gut Bacteria Hope for Kids
22 Apr
Summary
- Trial explores gut microbe modification for children with autism.
- Faecal microbiota transplant transfers healthy gut bacteria.
- Free gut health assessment camp offered this Sunday in Matunga.
A clinical trial in Mumbai is seeking participants to investigate the impact of altering gut microbes in children diagnosed with autism. This neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by challenges in social interaction and communication, affects a significant portion of children in India.
The trial, approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and conducted by the Hyderabad-based Resplice Autism Research Foundation, focuses on faecal microbiota transplant (FMT). This procedure involves transferring healthy gut bacteria from a donor into a patient's digestive system to re-establish a balanced gut microbiome.
Many children with autism frequently experience digestive problems, including food intolerance and constipation. The foundation is offering this therapy on compassionate grounds as part of a larger global effort involving over 400 FMT trials. Dr. Chandrasekhar Thodupunuri, chairman of the foundation, theorizes that prenatal exposure to environmental toxins may disrupt fetal gut microbiota development, contributing to autism.
One parent shared a positive experience, noting significant improvements in her eight-year-old son after he began FMT treatment. However, widespread approval for FMT therapy is anticipated to take at least five more years.
In anticipation of the trial's continuation, the foundation is hosting a free gut health assessment and microbiome testing camp this Sunday at Mysore Auditorium, Matunga. The event aims to identify gut health issues in children with autism.
