In this wide ranging conversation, Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with Professor Edward Quadros of SUNY Downstate to explore the critical roles of folate vitamin B9 and vitamin B12 in brain development and lifelong health. We unpack why some children show low cerebrospinal fluid folate despite a normal diet, how autoantibodies to the folate receptor can block folate from reaching the brain, and what the folate receptor antibody test FRAT reveals. Professor Quadros explains the research behind folinic acid leucovorin as a folate enhancer, what clinical studies show in children on the spectrum, and why earlier treatment tends to yield better outcomes. We also look at prenatal folate fortification, the potential value of screening parents, the milk and autoimmunity connection in susceptible kids, and clear up myths around the common MTHFR polymorphism. Finally, we connect B12 status, homocysteine, and the different B12 forms used in practice. If you care about evidence based insights on autism research, neurodevelopment, and smart supplementation, this episode is a must listen.
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In this wide ranging conversation, Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with Professor Edward Quadros of SUNY Downstate to explore the critical roles of folate vitamin B9 and vitamin B12 in brain development and lifelong health. We unpack why some children show low cerebrospinal fluid folate despite a normal diet, how autoantibodies to the folate receptor can block folate from reaching the brain, and what the folate receptor antibody test FRAT reveals. Professor Quadros explains the research behind folinic acid leucovorin as a folate enhancer, what clinical studies show in children on the spectrum, and why earlier treatment tends to yield better outcomes. We also look at prenatal folate fortification, the potential value of screening parents, the milk and autoimmunity connection in susceptible kids, and clear up myths around the common MTHFR polymorphism. Finally, we connect B12 status, homocysteine, and the different B12 forms used in practice. If you care about evidence based insights on autism research, neurodevelopment, and smart supplementation, this episode is a must listen.
Ep. 184 - Does Autism Begin in the Womb? The Maternal Immune Connection with Dr. Judy Van der Water
The Smartest Doctor in the Room
53 minutes
4 months ago
Ep. 184 - Does Autism Begin in the Womb? The Maternal Immune Connection with Dr. Judy Van der Water
In this episode of the Smartest Doctor in the Room, host Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with renowned immunologist and autism researcher Dr. Judy Van der Water from the UC Davis MIND Institute. Together, they dive deep into the groundbreaking research linking maternal immune health, the fetal microbiome, and the rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).Dr. Van der Water shares her pioneering work on gestational immune dysregulation, including the role of maternal autoantibodies (MAR antibodies) in fetal brain development—and why these findings challenge long-held misconceptions about autism’s origins. They also tackle tough questions: Is autism risk determined in utero? How do environmental toxins and epigenetics play a role? And what about vaccines?From early detection strategies to community resources for families, this conversation blends cutting-edge science with practical hope. Whether you’re a parent, clinician, or simply curious about the immune-brain connection, this episode offers invaluable insights into one of medicine’s most urgent mysteries.Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph ReissPhone Number: 908-451-4592 Email: jprconsultants7929@gmail.comVisit Dr. Mitchell's website here: https://www.mitchellmedicalgroup.com
The Smartest Doctor in the Room
In this wide ranging conversation, Dr. Dean Mitchell sits down with Professor Edward Quadros of SUNY Downstate to explore the critical roles of folate vitamin B9 and vitamin B12 in brain development and lifelong health. We unpack why some children show low cerebrospinal fluid folate despite a normal diet, how autoantibodies to the folate receptor can block folate from reaching the brain, and what the folate receptor antibody test FRAT reveals. Professor Quadros explains the research behind folinic acid leucovorin as a folate enhancer, what clinical studies show in children on the spectrum, and why earlier treatment tends to yield better outcomes. We also look at prenatal folate fortification, the potential value of screening parents, the milk and autoimmunity connection in susceptible kids, and clear up myths around the common MTHFR polymorphism. Finally, we connect B12 status, homocysteine, and the different B12 forms used in practice. If you care about evidence based insights on autism research, neurodevelopment, and smart supplementation, this episode is a must listen.
