Possible link revealed between autism and zinc deficiency during pregnancy

Although scientists don’t have a conclusive answer to what causes autism, a new study has revealed that there may be evidence that babies who do not get enough zinc while in the womb may be more likely to develop the condition.

In a recently published paper, German and US scientists stated that zinc levels during pregnancy may be a defining environmental factor in the development of the behavioural disorder and that, although further research is needed to confirm the link, they have defined a possible systematic link.

The team found that zinc shapes the connections between the formation of brain cells during early development via an intricate molecular machinery.

They do, however, caution that research is still at an early stage and that pregnant women should not start to take zinc supplements to prevent autism.

Dr Sally Kim, senior author of the study, said “Autism is associated with specific variants of genes involved in the formation, maturation and stabilisation of synapses during early development.

“Our findings link zinc levels in neurons – via interactions with the proteins encoded by these genes – to the development of autism.”

Craig Garner, co-senior author, added “Currently, there are no controlled studies of autism risk with zinc supplementation in pregnant women or babies, so the jury is still out.

“We really can’t make any conclusions or recommendations for zinc supplementation at this point, but experimental work in autism models also published in this Frontiers Research Topic holds promise.”

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events. Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

If you believe that you or a relative may have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence solicitors on the freephone number below.

Posted by Tony May, Partner/head of Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Freephone : 0800 304 738