UC Davis MIND Institute Identifies Immune System "Brakes" as Potential Therapy for Autism Inflammation

UC Davis MIND Institute studies show that altering regulatory T cells can reduce inflammation and improve social behaviors in autism, especially in males.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 11:01 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from University of California - Davis Health

Identifying the Immune Imbalance in Autistic Children

Groundbreaking research published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation has provided a detailed characterization of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in children with autism, identifying them as a critical link between the immune system and neurodevelopment. Often described as the "brakes" of the immune system, Tregs are responsible for calming inflammatory responses to prevent physiological overreaction. The study found that autistic children possess fewer of these cells compared to typically developing peers, and the existing Tregs exhibit unstable genetic identities, suggesting a diminished capacity to regulate systemic inflammation.

The Influence of Gastrointestinal Comorbidity on Immune Health

The study utilized data from the ongoing CHARGE study to determine how common co-occurring conditions, such as gastrointestinal (GI) issues, impact the immune profile of autistic children. Researchers discovered that the reduction in Treg populations was highly specific to the presence of GI symptoms. Children with both autism and GI issues had significantly fewer Tregs capable of producing anti-inflammatory proteins, whereas those without GI issues had fewer Tregs capable of dividing after activation. This finding suggests that the immune dysfunction associated with autism may manifest differently depending on a child's specific medical profile.

Gene Expression and Metabolic Instability in T Cells

Beyond simple cell counts, the research identified 213 differentially expressed genes within the Tregs of autistic children. The majority of these genes were upregulated and involved in DNA repair and energy metabolism, while downregulated genes were linked to the conversion of nutrients into usable energy. According to Rachel Moreno, the study’s lead author, these metabolic shifts and DNA reorganizations suggest that the very identity of these immune cells is unstable. Notably, across all groups studied, a lower number of Tregs was consistently associated with more significant behavioral support needs.