Exploring the Autism Cascade Hypothesis with Scientist Sinem Berthier
Download MP3Hosts Paul and Gino sit down with scientist and independent researcher Nuriye Sinem Berthier. With a rich background in chemistry, pharmacology, genetics, and biochemistry, and personal experience as a parent navigating autism, Sinem offers a unique lens on child development, neurodiversity, and the microbiome.
She introduces her Autism Cascade Hypothesis, highlighting how early-life environmental factors—including birth method, feeding choices, and gut health—may influence neurodevelopment. Sinem also discusses the critical role of probiotics, fermented foods, and cultural perspectives in supporting healthy development.
This conversation blends cutting-edge science with lived experience, empowering families with new insights and sparking dialogue on how culture shapes our understanding of neurodiversity.
Connect With Nuriye Sinem Berthier
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sinem-berthier
Orcid Account: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5840-7957
Journal Articles:
1. Proposing the Autism Cascade Hypothesis: A Novel Mechanistic Framework Linking Dietary Peptides, Neuroimmune Activation, and Developmental Timing. https://zenodo.org/records/17007271
2. Cascading Pathways in Autism: A New Clinical Lens on Early Pediatric Intervention. https://zenodo.org/records/17019400
Connect With Us
Connect With Nuriye Sinem Berthier
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sinem-berthier
Orcid Account: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5840-7957
Journal Articles:
1. Proposing the Autism Cascade Hypothesis: A Novel Mechanistic Framework Linking Dietary Peptides, Neuroimmune Activation, and Developmental Timing. https://zenodo.org/records/17007271
2. Cascading Pathways in Autism: A New Clinical Lens on Early Pediatric Intervention. https://zenodo.org/records/17019400
Connect With Us
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Episode Chapters
- 00:00 – Podcast Introduction
- 02:05 – Meet Sinem Berthier
- 03:13 – Shifting Paths: From Pharma to Independent Research
- 05:07 – Understanding the Autism Cascade Hypothesis
- 09:17 – Practical Steps for Families
- 10:21 – Common Misconceptions About Autism
- 11:05 – Bridging Science & Everyday Families
- 11:36 – Creating Le Fermentis
- 13:12 – Community & Cultural Awareness
- 14:20 – Empowering Parents
- 15:16 – Looking Ahead in Research
- 16:02 – Legacy & Impact
- 16:38 – Conclusion and Reflections
Disclaimer:
The content provided in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The content provided in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
Creators and Guests
Host
Gino Akbari
He is a global citizen with a passion for understanding the human experience. Having lived across multiple cultures and worked in a wide range of industries—from military training to acting, politics, and entrepreneurship—Gino has developed a deep appreciation for how people think, behave, and thrive within their environments. With over 12 years of experience training military personnel, he brings discipline, adaptability, and leadership into every space he enters. A multilingual speaker and lifelong learner, Gino’s journey has also led him to the performing arts, where he owns a dance company and embraces movement as a form of expression and connection. Today, Gino is a certified life coach with credentials across various disciplines. His mission is simple yet powerful: to explore what it means to live a truly full life—and to guide others on their own paths of growth, purpose, and continuous self-improvement.
Guest
Nuriye Sinem Berthier
She is an independent researcher and science educator based in Lyon, France. She founded Le Fermentis, a community initiative that connects biomedical education, culinary practice, and public health.
