Changes in CSF neurotransmitters during the first year of life

Changes in cerebrospinal fluid neurotransmitter metabolites in 25 children younger than 1 year of age were analyzed to assess maturation of the central nervous system and were compared to cerebrospinal fluid from older children and adults. Significant inverse correlations (P < .05) with aging were observed for tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, kynurenine, tyrosine, dopa, dopamine, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, homovanillic acid, norepinephrine, and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol concentrations. There were no significant differences observed with respect to age in the cerebrospinal fluid serotonin, 3-hydroxykynurenine, and 3-methoxytyramine concentrations. This study suggests that changes in the major cerebrospinal fluid neurotransmitters occur with increasing age during the neonatal period. Because these findings are preliminary, additional patients require study.