Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with
unique characteristics in information processing and social interactions. Recent
research indicates that the gut-brain axis, particularly through the vagus nerve, plays
a role in the pathophysiology of autism. Factors such as gut microbiome composition,
mode of delivery (birth method), antibiotic use, and diet can influence this connection.
This analytical review examines the current evidence regarding this relationship.
Methods: The research methodology of this study is based on a structured review
conducted through a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
Key search terms included "Autism Spectrum Disorder," "Gut-Brain Axis," "Gut Microbiota,
Studies published between 2010 and 2024 were collected and screened based on inclusion
criteria encompassing human and animal studies, availability of full-text articles, and
publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Result: Research indicates that dysfunction of the gut-brain axis, particularly through
the vagus nerve pathway, plays a determinant role in the pathophysiology of ASD
.Studies confirm a significant reduction in microbial diversity and ecological imbalance
in the gut microbiota of ASD patients. Specifically, butyrate-producing bacteria show
up to 50% reduction while pro-inflammatory bacteria demonstrate up to 3-fold
increase. These alterations are accompanied by impaired vagus nerve signaling,
which plays a crucial role in bidirectional gut-brain communication .The consequences
include reduced production of essential metabolites, increased blood-brain barrier
permeability, and activation of systemic inflammatory responses. Risk factors such as
cesarean delivery (23% increased odds ratio) and childhood antibiotic exposure (34%
increased relative risk) exacerbate this dysbiosis .The findings suggest that targeted
interventions modulating microbiota and improving vagus nerve function could provide
effective therapeutic approaches for managing ASD .gut-brain communication. The
consequences include reduced production of essential metabolites, increased bloodbrain barrier permeability, and activation of systemic inflammatory responses. Risk
factors such as cesarean delivery (23% increased odds ratio) and childhood antibiotic
exposure (34% increased relative risk) exacerbate this dysbiosis. The findings suggest
that targeted interventions modulating microbiota and improving vagu nerve function
could provide effective therapeutic approaches fofor managing ASD.