Plasma oxytocin levels are reduced in Slovak autistic boys

BACKGROUND: Oxytocin is a neuropeptide affecting social behaviour. Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by social deficits, impaired communication and repetitive behaviours. Several studies have shown reduced plasma levels of oxytocin and moreover, administration of oxytocin reduced clinical symptoms of autism. AIM: The aim of this study was to reveal differences in the plasma levels of oxytocin between autistic and healthy populations in Slovakia. METHODS: After a signed consent, 108 autism spectrum disorder patients were enrolled in the study (83 males, 25 females). A control group of 131 healthy children was recruited (106 males, 25 females). Blood samples were obtained from all children and plasma oxytocin levels were measured using the ELISA method. RESULTS: Oxytocin levels were lower in the boys older than 10 years of age in comparison to controls. There were no significant differences in oxytocin levels among girls. Oxytocin levels did not significantly correlate with age in either of the examined groups. CONCLUSION: Decreased oxytocin levels in plasma of autism boys may be related to decreased sociability and social interactions. The addition of psychological profiling may reveal possible correlations of hormone levels with symptom severities (Tab. 1, Fig. 2, Ref. 23). Text in PDF www.elis.sk.