Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex conditions that can cause social, language and behavioural problems in childhood. Children with ASDs require long term support from families and the community. Little is known about what causes ASDs and no specific treatments are yet available.

Medications have been helpful in some cases, and dietary supplements have been tried by many families who have reported benefits. However there have been no scientifically valid trials examining the use of dietary supplements in ASDs.

Peptizyde(TM) is an enzyme supplement which is used by some individuals with autism. We would like to study the role of dietary supplementation with Peptizyde(TM) in children with ASDs. We will look at changes in language skills, behaviour and autistic symptoms and measure gastrointestinal permeability (a measure of so called “leakiness of the gut”) in children who take Peptizyde(TM) compared to children who do not.

It is important to understand more about the different treatment options available for children with ASDs. Many families invest a great deal of time and money in nutritional supplements for children with ASDs but their benefits are still unproven. The information obtained from this study will be helpful in providing knowledge about the risks and benefits of using nutritional supplements. This information will be important for families and therapists.

Age ranges needed: Young children (ages 3-8)

Diagnoses needed: Those who have been diagnosed with autism or pervasive developmental disorder

Type of testing involved: Initial interview, monthly questionnaires for parents and the child’s regular therapist, 3 laboratory (blood) tests (over a 6-month period)

Location of testing: State Child Development Centre

Contact: If you wish your child to participate, please contact or Dr Ashanthi Munasinghe at the State Child Development Centre on 9481 7660 or e-mail: ashanthi.munasinghe@health.wa.gov.au

Dr John Wray & Dr Ashanthi Munasinghe State Child Development Centre West Perth WA 6872