PRIMARY STUDY

Plasma anandamide concentrations are lower in children with autism spectrum disorder.

Key Findings:  Children with lower anandamide concentrations were more likely to have ASD. These findings are the first empirical human data to translate preclinical rodent findings to confirm a link between plasma anandamide concentrations in children with ASD. Although preliminary, these data suggest that impaired anandamide signaling may be involved in the pathophysiology of ASD.