Apo D and Apo E Levels in Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract Apo D is an atypical plasma apolipoprotein and a member of the lipocalin protein superfamily. In recent years, Apo D has been identified as an important factor in the pathology of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Apo D is highly produced in the brain and acts as a multiligand and multifunctional carrier. Apo D binds to and stabilizes Arachidonic acid in the cell membrane and cytosol. Thus, it suppresses inflammation and protects the cell membrane against oxidation. Apo E is important in cholesterol transfer and it has been reported that it may play a role in immune regulation, nerve regeneration, synaptogenesis and neuronal homeostasis. In this study, plasma Apo D and Apo E levels were examined and its possible role in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) pathology was investigated. Thirty-nine subjects with ASD were compared with 30 healthy subjects who typically developed. Accordingly, plasma Apo D and Apo E levels were statistically significantly lower in the ASD group compared to the healthy control group. According to the results of this study, it can be suggested that low levels of Apo D and Apo E may play a role in ASD pathogenesis.