What role does oxidative stress from low birth weight and birth complications play in autism?

PostedDecember 1, 2025

UpdatedDecember 1, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Researchers are increasingly exploring the biological effects of oxidative stress on the developing brain, particularly in infants facing low birth weight and birth complications. These perinatal challenges can trigger an imbalance between harmful molecules and the body’s ability to neutralise them, leading to oxidative stress that may contribute to the development of autism.

Understanding the connection between oxidative stress and autism offers insight into the molecular events that may underlie autism risk.

How Oxidative Stress Affects Brain Development

Here’s a closer look at how mechanisms linking oxidative stress and autism may affect neurodevelopment in vulnerable newborns:

Free radical damage

When infants experience birth-related complications or are born underweight, their tissues may be exposed to free radical damage. These unstable molecules can attack cells in the brain, potentially disrupting normal neural communication during a critical stage of brain growth.

Antioxidant depletion

In healthy development, antioxidant systems protect the brain from damage. But in babies with low birth weight, these defences may be immature or overwhelmed, leading to antioxidant depletion and a reduced capacity to protect against neurological harm.

Cellular injury and inflammation

Excessive oxidative stress can lead to cellular injury, inflammation, and disrupted signalling in the developing brain. These changes are believed to affect pathways related to social interaction, sensory regulation, and language; traits often altered in autism.

By examining how mechanisms linking oxidative stress and autism develop, we gain a better understanding of how early medical challenges can shape lifelong outcomes. Visit Autism Detect for tailored consultation and guidance on risk awareness and developmental support.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Birth Complications and Low Birth Weight.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.