Redox Effects of Gluten and Casein-derived Opiate Peptides
Many autistic children benefit from a GF/CF diet, suggesting that it might improve redox and methylation status. Our studies show that peptides released from gluten and casein exert complex effects on cysteine uptake in both neuronal and GI epithelial cells. Human and bovine forms exhibit different profiles, with implications for breast feeding vs. bottle feeding. These findings represent novel roles for opiates and provide additional support for the "Redox/Methylation" hypothesis of autism.
Richard C. Deth, PhD
Dr. Richard Deth is Professor of Pharmacology in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University. His recent research has focused on the roles of oxidative stress and impaired methylation in autism, ADHD and other neurological, neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
