A toxin-free foetus can lead to a healthy baby as Autism starts right from the womb

■   Resplice Autism Research Institute, Hyderabad — India’s first centre offering FMT gut-based therapy showing 30–40% improvement, with new treatments targeting 70–80% recovery.

■   Conducting ICMR-approved studies on foetal-stage Autism prevention and gut-based management for an Autism-free generation.

■   Dr. Chandrashekhar Thodupunuri flagged delays in releasing key Autism research, including the U.S. MAHA report (2005–2025).

■   Free Autism Assessment Camp: Oct 29 – Nov 15 at Resplice Institute, Manikonda, for early diagnosis and awareness.

MAHESH AVADHUTHA I hyderabad

In what may be termed as a major breakthrough and respite and relief for thousands of children affected by autism, two Telugu doctors have come out with a treatment and prevention. The doctors turned personal struggles into a scientific mission and have made a significant breakthrough in the treatment and prevention of Autism through gut-based therapies.

Dr. Chandrashekhar Thodupunuri, a cardiologist, and Dr. Kala Ramya Marepally, a dentist, are behind the Resplice Autism Research Institute in Hyderabad — India’s first healthcare center to offer Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) therapy, targeting the Gut-Brain Axis to manage Autism and related neurological conditions. The Institute, located at Shivapuri Colony, Manikonda, announced a Free Autism Assessment Camp from October 29 to November 15, to create awareness among parents and caregivers.

Dr. Chandrashekhar’s journey into this field began with a personal challenge — his daughter, born in 2015, was diagnosed with Autism a year later. “She had severe gut health issues. This journey towards finding a solution for her gut problems led me down the research route in 2017 to understand the role of the gut microbiome in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and whether treating that will improve behavioral symptoms and overall quality of life,” he said.

Driven by that quest, Dr. Chandrashekhar established Resplice Institute, now conducting an ICMR-approved three-year study on Autism prevention during the foetal stage and FMT therapy for Autism management. “Autism starts right from the womb. Providing a toxin-free environment to a developing foetus can lead to a healthy baby without Autism,” he said.

He added that the incidence of Autism has risen sharply — “From one in 10,000 in 1980, and now one in 54 children in 2020.” He attributed this spike to “chemical- and pesticide-ridden food that directly impacts the womb during pregnancy.”

Explaining the science behind FMT, he said, “Constipation, bloating, or food intolerance are among the digestive issues many autistic children face. Bacteria in our stomach can affect behavior, sleep, and even learning by sending signals to the brain. FMT transfers healthy gut bacteria from a donor’s stool into a patient’s digestive system to restore balance. It’s already showing 30–40% improvement, and with targeted therapies, we aim for 70–80% recovery.”

Joining this mission, Dr. Kala Ramya Marepally, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) at Resplice, shared her own story. “I was a practising dentist in the US. When my son was diagnosed with Autism, I left my career, came back to India, and took treatment for him at Resplice. After witnessing remarkable results, I decided to join this movement,” she said. “Resplice is unique because it is not just run by doctors — it’s driven by parents who are also doctors and who understand the pain firsthand.”

Dr. Murali Mohan Reddy, Ethics Committee Member at Resplice, highlighted the scientific backing for the institute’s work. “Over 400 studies have been done worldwide on FMT since 2013. The Resplice team is following ICMR guidelines and regulations, conducting multiple trials, and we are hopeful of final approval soon,” he said.

Commending their efforts, Dr. Chandrakaanthaa Rao, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at Mahavir Hospital, said, “All things start from the gut. A good gut will go a long way in leading a healthier life. It’s no wonder that even brain-linked disorders like Autism can have a solution through the gut. The phrase ‘gut feeling’ truly means something — if your gut is good, it sends good signals to the brain.”

Dr. Rao added that many parents from abroad have been coming to India for treatment. “Impressed by Resplice’s work, around 168 Indian parents have flown from the US to India for four-week treatment programs,” he revealed. Summing up his mission, Dr. Chandrashekhar said, “Autism starts from the womb — catch it before it cripples your family and your child’s life. Our goal is to help women have toxin-free pregnancies for an Autism-free generation.”