New Vaccine Could Help Control Autism-Associated Bacteria

Scientists at the University of Guelph have announced the development of a new vaccine. The carbohydrate-based drug works against the gut bacteria Clostridium bolteae, which is known to cause gut disorders and is found in high levels in many autistic children.

Scientists still do not know why autistic children are so predisposed to gastrointestinal disorder, but it is hoped that this new vaccine will improve treatment.

The vaccine works by targeting the specific complex polysaccharides, or carbohydrates, on the surface of the clostridium bolteae bacteria and has already been shown to promote antibody production in rabbits. Some scientists believe that gut problems could be not only a symptom but also a contributing factor to severe autism, which leads to the exciting possibility of this vaccine being used to regulate autistic symptoms.

Although drugs in this early stage of development will take more than ten years to make it through trials and onto the market, the research marks a significant step in treatment for autistic children.