The Interconnection Between Altered Gut Microbiota and Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This article aims to understand the relationship between alterations in the intestinal microbiota and behavioral and physiological disorders associated with ASD, focusing on nutritional interventions and therapies. A literature review was carried out between 2008 and 2024, using databases such as PubMed, Scopus and the Cochrane Library. Nineteen full articles were selected in Portuguese, English, Spanish and French, which address the microbiological, metabolic and behavioral aspects of ASD, as well as therapeutic interventions. The results indicated that intestinal dysbiosis is a recurrent characteristic in individuals with ASD, associated with increased intestinal permeability, systemic inflammation and metabolic alterations. Food selectivity, common in individuals with ASD, aggravates the condition, leading to significant nutritional deficiencies and increased gastrointestinal problems. Therapeutic interventions such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, fecal transplants and restrictive diets have shown promise, promoting the modulation of the intestinal microbiota, reducing inflammation and improving both gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms. Therefore, altered intestinal microbiota plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of ASD, influencing both behavioral and physiological aspects. Therapeutic interventions based on microbiota modulation and dietary re-education show promise for improving the quality of life of patients, but require larger and standardized studies to establish effective and safe protocols.