Pro-inflammatory Immune Dysregulation and Genetic Susceptibility in Iraqi Children with Autism: A Tetra-Primer ARMS-PCR Investigation of Interleukin Polymorphisms

Journal of molecular neuroscience : MN  ·  2026

Wisam Hindawi Hoidy; Ali Mohsen Essa; Shaimaa Mohsen Essa; Doaa Hadi Chyad; Mohammed Hamza Al-Saadi;

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ABSTRACT

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is associated with multiple co-occurring conditions. Research has linked ASD with immune dysregulation and altered interleukin levels. This study examines interleukin levels in children with autism and assesses immune markers in relation to disorder severity. This case-control study included 195 children with ASD and 310 typically developing controls. Serum levels of interleukins (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8) were measured using ELISA. Genetic polymorphisms in interleukin genes were investigated using tetra-primer amplification and OB-PCR systems. The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was used to assess autism severity. Children with ASD demonstrated significantly elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to controls. IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 levels were increased 6.35-fold, 5.16-fold, and substantially higher, respectively, in the ASD group. Conversely, IL-2 and IL-4 showed moderately reduced levels (0.36 to 0.43-fold) compared to controls. Positive correlations were identified between interleukin levels (particularly IL-8) and autism severity. Specific genetic polymorphisms and haplotype combinations were associated with altered interleukin levels and ASD diagnosis. Altered serum interleukin levels in Iraqi children with autism support the hypothesis of immune dysregulation in ASD. These findings suggest that inflammatory processes involving immune cells may play a role in autism pathophysiology. Targeting inflammation may represent a potential therapeutic approach for autism management.

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