The etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is unclear. Studies involving children with ASD suggest that oxidative stress could explain some of the pathology. Few reports have investigated the role of oxidative stress into adulthood. Furthermore, the knowledge on psychiatric and somatic co-morbidities, as well as socio-economic status in a trajectory across lifespan is sparse.

Investigating oxidative stress related markers in ASD, along with trajectories in socio-economic functioning and co-morbidities.

To evaluate the importance of oxidative stress in the neurobiology of adults with ASD and assess the socio-economic level of functioning and co-morbidities.

Plasma levels of antioxidant super-oxide-dismutase isoenzymes (SOD1 and SOD2) and pro-oxidant xanthineoxidase (XO) were measured in 56 patients ≥18years of age, diagnosed in childhood with ASD (F84.0, F84.1, F84.5 or F84.8), along with gender and age matched controls. Participants were interviewed regarding their health, familial predisposition and social status.

Cases showed higher levels of SOD1 (268.2ng/mL vs. 205.6ng/mL). We found no differences regarding SOD2 and XO. Patients had a higher BMI (27 vs. 24), fewer drank alcohol (40% vs. 75%), more had a psychiatric co-morbidity (50% vs. 2%), more had family member with a psychiatric diagnosis (80% vs. 50%). None of the bio-psycho-social factors showed association with biomarker levels.

Oxidative stress seems to play a role in ASD. Furthermore, patients with ASD often have psychiatric co-morbidities; more often have a family history of psychiatric diagnoses, and are less healthy physically.