Autistic disorder and phospholipids: A review Christine M. Brown, David W. Austin n Swinburne Autism Bio-Research Initiative (SABRI), Faculty of Life and Social Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
Conclusion A review of the literature suggests that there is compelling evidence that phospholipid metabolism is at least impaired in individuals with AD (Autistic Disorder). However, at this stage, it has not been established whether phospholipid metabolism is implicated in causal, mechanistic or epiphenomenological models. More research is needed to ascertain whether breastfeeding, and specifically, the administration of colostrum or an adequate substitute can play a preventative role by supplying the neonate with EFAs at a critical juncture in their development. In regard to treatment, further clinical trials of EFA supplementation are essential to, at worst, eliminate the possibility of the efficacy of EFAs in reducing AD symptomatology and at best, determine whether supplementation can serve as a cost-effective and readily available intervention. If so, it is critical to determine which EFAs are most effective and in what ratios. New non-invasive tests such as the measurement of volatiles in breath [78] need to be rigorously applied to investigate the possibility of establishing a reliable biological diagnostic determinant of AD.