A reproducible buccal transcriptomic response to music exposure in autism spectrum disorder: insights into the oral-brain axis

A recent study explored the impact of music on individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Researchers examined the molecular changes that occur when music exposure occurs, using samples collected through saliva and a specialized gene expression test. This investigation was conducted on two groups of participants - those with ASD and healthy individuals (controls).

In the initial phase, the study collected data from both the initial exposure and after the intervention, while the subsequent phase included a follow-up sample taken 25 minutes after exposure. A total of 33 potential gene markers were identified in the initial analysis, with 20 (61%) proving to be significantly different in the follow-up cohort. Out of these, 13 markers remained significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Among the replicated genes were several crucial components of the innate immune and inflammatory signaling systems, including CXCL8, MYD88, RELA, PTGS2, PTPRC, SELL, LYN, and LTBR. The researchers then performed a functional analysis, which revealed that the identified genes were primarily involved in innate immune and inflammatory pathways. This included TLR/IL-1-MYD88 signaling, cytokine activity, leukocyte activation, and antimicrobial responses.

The study also utilized a co-expression network to identify changes in immune transcriptional programs within ASD. A consensus feature selection process was employed to create a two-gene signature that could accurately differentiate between music-exposed and non-exposed samples in ASD, but not in control subjects. Remarkably, this same signature was able to detect changes in transcriptional responses after just 25 minutes of music exposure, indicating a progressive, time-dependent reaction.

Overall, the results demonstrated a consistent transcriptional reaction to music in ASD participants across different study groups, suggesting a potential neuroimmune link. The resulting transcriptional signature provides a promising foundation for the development of non-invasive biomarkers to monitor the effects of music interventions in neurodevelopmental disorders.