B1 Other refereed article (e.g., editorial, letter, comment) in a scientific journal

Theoretical Framework and Methodological Approach for Investigating Potential Associations Between Long COVID and Autism Spectrum Disorder Prevalence




AuthorsRudroff, Thorsten

PublisherMDPI AG

Publication year2025

JournalNeuroSci

Article number80

Volume6

eISSN2673-4087

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6030080

Web address https://doi.org/10.3390/neurosci6030080

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/500038458


Abstract

This perspective paper proposes a theoretical framework for investigating potential associations between Long COVID and rising autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence through established epidemiological methodologies. I propose examining temporal correlations, biological mechanisms, and rigorous methodological approaches, including Mendelian randomization, animal models, and evidence-based analyses, that could distinguish association from causation. The proposed framework recognizes autism as neurodiversity while suggesting investigation of environmental factors that may influence expression of genetic predispositions. Hypothesized key mechanisms include neuroinflammation, cytokine alterations, and immune dysfunction. I emphasize the critical distinction between demonstrating statistical associations and establishing causal influence, proposing specific experimental designs that could test causality. This paper presents conceptual frameworks requiring future empirical validation and does not include original data analysis.


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Funding information in the publication
This research received no external funding.


Last updated on 2025-23-09 at 17:03