The Role of Sertoli Cell Hormones in Male Preponderance Observed in Autism Spectrum Disorder


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Goksoy S. C., TANIR Y., SOYLU N., BAKİ A. M., VURAL P., KARAYAĞMURLU A.

NOROPSIKIYATRI ARSIVI-ARCHIVES OF NEUROPSYCHIATRY, cilt.61, sa.2, ss.141-147, 2024 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier identifier

Özet

Introduction: There is a significant, but poorly understood, male preponderance in prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between male preponderance in ASD and Inhibin B (InhB) and Anti-M & uuml;llerian hormone (AMH) levels and the 2D/4D finger ratio associated with fetal androgen exposure. Methods: 42 patients with ASD and 42 neurotypical controls between the ages of 5 and 10 were included. ASD diagnosis and severity were determined using K-SADS PL (Kiddie-SADS - Present and Life Time) Version 2016 and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Serum InhB and AMH were measured. The 2D/4D finger length ratio was also calculated for hand anthropometric measurements. Results: Serum InhB levels were higher in children diagnosed with ASD compared to the neurotypical controls (p=0.003). Serum AMH levels were similar in both groups. Positive correlation was determined between AMH and CARS scores (r=0.315, p=0.05). 2D/4D finger ratios in the ASD group were significantly lower than in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: The study findings suggest that InhB, AMH, and fetal testosterone may be associated with male preponderance in ASD. More research is now required for a better understanding of this subject.