Leucovorin (folinic acid) is a reduced form of folate that addresses cerebral folate deficiency (CFD), a condition linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and impaired 5-MTHF transport into the brain via the folate receptor alpha (FRα). Autoantibodies against FRα (FRAAs) are present in 58–76% of individuals with ASD, disrupting folate transport and leading to low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) folate levels. Leucovorin bypasses this dysfunction by utilizing alternative transport pathways, normalizing CSF folate. Studies reveal significant improvements in ASD symptoms, including communication, attention, and motor function, with 21% of patients achieving full recovery.
Rossignol, D.A., & Frye, R.E. (2021) 'Cerebral Folate Deficiency, Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies and Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Treatment in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis', Journal of Personalized Medicine.
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Rossignol, D.A., & Frye, R.E. (2021) 'Cerebral Folate Deficiency, Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies and Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Treatment in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis', Journal of Personalized Medicine.
Rossignol, D.A., & Frye, R.E. (2021) 'Cerebral Folate Deficiency, Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies and Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Treatment in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis', Journal of Personalized Medicine.
Rossignol, D.A., & Frye, R.E. (2021) 'Cerebral Folate Deficiency, Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies and Leucovorin (Folinic Acid) Treatment in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis', Journal of Personalized Medicine.