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7-2 Final Project Part 1:
Gut-Axis Microbiata and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Brynne Nicholas
Southern New Hampshire University
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Literature Review
Developmental disabilities like autism spectrum disorder (ADS) are frequently identified
at early ages in children with an estimation that 1 out of every 54 children will have a diagnosis
of autism spectrum disorder. Because of the heterogeneity of autism spectrum disorder, there are
a variety of symptoms and characteristics that are commonly displayed across all with autism;
however, every individual with autism will not be the same. There are three levels of severity for
the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder which include: “Level 1 (‘Requiring support’), Level 2
(‘Requiring substantial support’), and Level 3 (‘Requiring very substantial support’)” (Weitlauf
AS, Gotham KO, Vehorn AC, Warren ZE., 2014). Intervention and treatment in behavioral
learning has proven to be more effective earlier on in those diagnosed with autism as they may
show difficulties in learning, communicating, problem solving, and communicating. Autism
affects learning and communication skills, as well as social deficiencies, systemic inflammation,
immune-related digestive issues, and changes in the composition of the gut microbiota (Van
Sadelhoff, J., Perez Pardo, P., Wu, J., Garssen,...Kraneveld, 2019).
Below are the findings of an investigation of previous research on the distinct roles of the
brain in relation to autism spectrum disorder. More specifically, results from analyzing research
that has been done regarding the comorbidity of gastrointestinal issues in individuals with autism
spectrum disorder. Among the various medical comorbidities linked to autism spectrum disorder,
gastrointestinal dysfunction has a substantial impact on these individual's quality of life. Because
of the comorbidity associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction, it is implied that the gut
