Do autism and OCD show similar gut-brain axis breakdown?

Jane Foster, PhD

June 12, 2018

Several studies have reported differences in bacterial diversity and differences in bacterial composition in individuals with autism. To date not comparable clinical studies have been conducted. Gastrointestinal issues and more prevalence of functional GI disorders have been reported in both autism and OCD so more research is needed to better understand the role of the gut-brain axis in these disorders.

This question was answered by Jane Foster, PhD. 

About the Author:

Jane Foster, PhD

Jane Foster, PhD joined the McMaster University faculty in 2003. She holds a research appointment with the University Health Network in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, as well as a scientific position with St. Michael’s Hospital.

Dr. Foster is an active researcher with two translational networks, The Province of Ontario Neurodevelopment Disorders Network (POND) and the Canadian Biomarker Integration Network in Depression (CAN-BIND). Her research focuses on the role of immune-brain and gut-brain interactions on neurodevelopment, behavior, and brain function. The Foster Lab includes a behavioral unit designed to measure human behavior across the lifespan.

Click here to learn more about Foster Lab.

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