Antibodies against the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) and its protective ligand hexokinase-I in children with autism.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Autistic children show elevated serum levels of autoantibodies to several proteins essential for the function of normal brains. The voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) and hexokinase-I, a VDAC protective ligand, were identified as targets of this autoimmunity in autistic children. These autoantibodies were purified using immunoaffinity chromatographic techniques. Both antibodies induce apoptosis of cultured human neuroblastoma cells. Because VDAC and hexokinase-I are essential for brain protection from ischemic damage, the presence of these autoantibodies suggests a possible causal role in the neurologic pathogenesis of autism.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Gonzalez-Gronow, M; Cuchacovich, M; Francos, R; Cuchacovich, S; Fernandez, MDP; Blanco, A; Bowers, EV; Kaczowka, S; Pizzo, SV

Published Date

  • October 8, 2010

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 227 / 1-2

Start / End Page

  • 153 - 161

PubMed ID

  • 20576296

Pubmed Central ID

  • PMC2943043

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1872-8421

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2010.06.001

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • Netherlands