O EIXO INTESTINO-CÉREBRO NO TRANSTORNO DO ESPECTRO AUTISTA (TEA)

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition frequently associated with gastrointestinal manifestations. In recent years, literature has increasingly highlighted the role of the gut-brain axis and the intestinal microbiota in modulating immunological, metabolic, and neurobehavioral responses related to the disorder. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the gut-brain axis and ASD, with emphasis on potential laboratory biomarkers and their implications for biomedical investigation of ASD.This is an exploratory literature review with a qualitative approach, based on publications from 2014 to 2025. The studies analyzed indicate that individuals with ASD may present reduced microbial diversity, decreased levels of beneficial commensal bacteria, increased abundance of potentially pathogenic microorganisms, alterations in metabolite production, increased intestinal permeability, and activation of systemic inflammatory pathways. Among the most recurrent complementary markers are zonulin, pro-inflammatory cytokines, shortchain fatty acids, and microbial profiles obtained through molecular methods. However, these parameters do not demonstrate sufficient specificity to independently confirm ASD and should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical evaluation. It is concluded that the gut-brain axis represents a promising field for laboratory investigation and complementary monitoring of ASD, and that biomedical professionals play a strategic role in the execution, quality control, and critical interpretation of these examinations.