Lymphocyte subsets and interleukin-2 receptors in autistic children

Author(s): Frei, B. W., Gaffney, G. R.

Journal/Book: J Autism Dev Disord. 1996; 26: 233 Spring St, New York, NY 10013. Plenum Publ Corp. 87-97.

Abstract: Blood samples were obtained from 10 male autistic children ages 7-15 years and 10 age-matched, male, healthy controls. Lymphocyte subsets (helper-inducer, suppressor-cytotoxic, total T, and total B cells) were enumerated using monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry. Bound and soluble interleukin-2 receptors were assayed in unstimulated blood samples and in cell cultures following 72-hour stimulation with phytohemagglutinin. The children with autism had a lower percentage of helper-inducer cells and a lower helper:suppressor ratio, with both measures inversely related to the severity of autistic symptoms (r = -.56 and -.68, respectively). A lower percentage of lymphocytes expressing bound interleukin-2 receptors following mitogenic stimulation was also noted, and this too was inversely related to the severity of autistic symptoms.

Note: Article DR Denney, Univ Kansas, Dept Psychol, Lawrence, KS 66045 USA

Keyword(s): SOLUBLE INTERLEUKIN-2; BEHAVIOR CHECKLIST; SEROTONIN; SERUM

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