Аннотация
Objectives β-catenin, E-cadherin, and vinculin are essential components of adherens junctions. They play critical roles in both the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the intestinal barrier. Increased intestinal and BBB permeability has been suggested to play a role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a difference in the levels of these molecules between individuals diagnosed with ASD and healthy controls.Methods A total of 40 children with ASD and 40 controls aged 2–12 years were enrolled in this study. Plasma levels of biochemical variables were determined using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits.Results The plasma β-catenin level was significantly higher in the ASD group compared to the control group. However, no significant difference was found between the groups in terms of plasma vinculin and E-cadherin levels.Conclusions These findings suggest that β-catenin may play a role in the pathogenesis of ASD.