Can Fecal Microbiota Transplantation therapy treat autism?

Hyderabad: Highlighting what he calls a preventable public-health challenge, Dr Chandrasekhar Thodupunuri, Chairman of Resplice Autism Research Institute, said that the origins of autism may begin before birth and early intervention could make a significant difference.

“Autism starts from the womb, catch it before autism cripples your family & child’s life,” he said while addressing the media in Hyderabad on Tuesday.

The Resplice Autism Research Institute, located in Manikonda, claims to be the first in India to offer Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) therapy as a core treatment for autism, a condition that continues to see a rise in diagnoses over recent decades. The Institute has now announced a free assessment camp for autism from October 29 to November 15.

Personal Fight Leads to Research and a New Institution

A cardiologist by training, Dr. Thodupunuri stepped into microbiome research after his own daughter was diagnosed with autism in 2016. He noticed that alongside behavioural challenges, she struggled with severe gut issues.

“This journey towards finding a solution for her gut problems led me down the research route in 2017 to understand the role of the gut microbiome in children with autism spectrum disorder,” he said.

“Whether treating that will improve the behavioural symptoms and overall quality of life of autistic children.”

That effort resulted in two innovations that form the backbone of Resplice:

• FMT and detox-based protocols for autistic children, people with gut disorders, and cancer patients post-chemotherapy

• A prevention model focusing on maternal and environmental factors that influence the foetus

Therapy Targeting the Gut-Brain Axis

Gut-related symptoms such as constipation, bloating, and food intolerance affect many autistic children, the Institute said. Citing research on the microbiome’s connection to brain function, Dr. Thodupunuri explained:

“Bacteria in our stomachs can affect behaviour, sleep patterns, and even learning by sending signals to the brain.”

On FMT outcomes, he added:

“Fecal microbiota transplant has shown 30–40 percent benefit… and a new treatment aimed at targeted delivery of signalling molecules to immature neurons has the potential for 70–80 percent recovery.”

The Institute is also undertaking AI-integrated multi-omics diagnostics and leads what it says is India’s first stool bank for microbiome-based therapies.

Prevention Programme for Pregnant Women

The doctors said their ongoing research indicates autism could originate during pregnancy. To reduce risk, the Institute has created what it describes as a “toxin-free pregnancy” initiative.

Pregnant women enrolled in the programme receive N-acetyl cysteine, folic acid, and other supplements. They are advised to avoid pesticides, plastics, and cosmetic chemicals and follow an organic diet.

Parents-Turned-Researchers Join the Mission

Several doctors who are also parents of autistic children have joined the organisation’s efforts.

Dr. Kala Ramya Marepally, a dentist who returned to India from the U.S. for her son’s treatment, said she chose to stay after witnessing improvements.

“This proves the parents’ trust in the research and treatment offered by the Institute, thus making the Institute a unique entity which is not run by just doctors, but also by suffering and affected parents who are also doctors,” she said.

Studies Nearing Completion

Dr. Thodupunuri said the Institute’s ICMR-approved three-year study on autism prevention at the foetal stage, launched in February 2022, is nearing completion. A parallel study on FMT for autism is also in its final stages, with results expected to be published after completion.

“As a parent myself, I know that I would do anything for my child,” he said.

Free Screening Camp Details

The free camp will run from October 29 to November 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Institute’s facility:

3rd Floor, Above Vijetha Supermarket, Shivapuri Colony, Manikonda, Hyderabad.

For appointments or registration, families can contact Bhavani at 91000 65552.