Autism Spectrum Disorder Study (H-39137)

Antibiotics in ASD: Evaluating Changes in GI and Behavioral Symptoms

We are seeking participants for a research study of the effects of antibiotics in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Eligible participants include children 2-17 years of age with a diagnosis of ASD as well as children without a diagnosis of ASD. The study will encompass behavior, abdominal pain, and the bacteria (microbiome) and small biological molecules (metabolome) in the gastrointestinal tract. Participation is easy, there is no pain involved, and your time will be compensated.

Antibiotics are known to affect gastrointestinal symptoms, but changes in behavior have also been seen while taking antibiotics. Previous research has shown that some children with autism experience significant changes in their autism symptoms while taking antibiotics, and symptoms have either improved or worsened depending on the child and the antibiotic that was prescribed. In order to find out why, we need to see what changes in the gut while the child is taking antibiotics.

Healthy children and children with ASD who have been prescribed antibiotics will be asked to provide two stool specimens as well as complete several surveys and diaries over a two-week period. The stool specimen will be used to determine differences in microbes and metabolites before and after taking antibiotics. Behavior will also be compared to the results of the microbes and metabolites analyses. This study is being conducted by Baylor College of Medicine in conjunction with Texas Children's Hospital, and this research is funded by N of One Autism Research Foundation.