Placental Vascular Growth Protein Changes Linked to Autism and ADHD in Children

What is it about?

The placenta is a vital organ that connects the mother to the baby and regulates its nutrition and brain development. In this Chilean pilot study, researchers analyzed two proteins that promote blood vessel formation—vegetative growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PLGF)—as well as their receptors, in the placentas of children (aged 10 to 12) who were later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They compared these levels with those of placentas from children without these disorders (control group). They found that the placentas of children with ASD had significantly lower levels of VEGF and PLGF (and the KDR receptor) and higher levels of the FLT1 receptor, while in the placentas of children with ADHD, FLT1 was also increased and VEGF decreased. These results suggest that there are alterations in placental vascularization in these disorders, supporting the idea that placental health could influence childhood brain development.

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Photo by Snap Sthlm on Unsplash

Photo by Snap Sthlm on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This work reminds us that brain health begins before birth. By showing that the placentas of children who later develop autism or ADHD exhibit alterations in key proteins for blood vessel formation, the study suggests that the pregnancy environment can profoundly and lastingly influence child development. Understanding these changes not only expands our scientific knowledge but also opens a human and preventative opportunity: better placental care could mean giving children a better start in their neurological development and future quality of life.

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