What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today. So, what exactly does an autism diagnosis mean? Autism encompasses a wide range of conditions, often characterized by challenges with social skills and communication, repetitive behaviors, and impaired sensory processing. Autism is described on a spectrum because the disorder looks different for everyone it affects. Individuals with autism have unique strengths, challenges, interests, and needs for support. The variation in cases when studying ASD makes the disorder very complex to research.
ASD neuroscience research has uncovered common differences in neuroanatomical structures and cell signaling pathways between a neurotypical brain and the brain of an individual with ASD. Here is an overview of what the research has started to uncover.
Neuroanatomical Structures
The brain can be divided into regions that each support a specialized function. Individuals with ASD are found to have hyperactivation, hypoactivation, or an irregularity in the studied brain regions' size and growth. Research has indicated differences in the amygdala, hippocampus, orbitofrontal cortex, temporoparietal cortex, and insula, to name a few. These regions play an important role in a variety of functions including emotional regulation, memory encoding, and sensory processing. The disrupted function of these neuroanatomical structures is beginning to explain the foundation of symptoms observed in individuals with ASD.
Cell Signaling
Prior research has indicated the genetic basis for autism, detailing approximately 1000 genes that contribute to the development of ASD. Some of these genes are known to impact neuron communication and cell signaling. The nervous system receives and transmits information by sending electrical and chemical signals from one neuron to another through the synapse which is the gap between neurons. Our genes play a role in neuron communication by regulating various steps in cell signaling pathways. Mutations in ASD risk genes lead to dysfunctions in neuronal signaling and abnormalities in the structure and function of the synapse.
Conclusion
While there is no standard treatment for ASD, there are many therapies and interventions that allow individuals with autism to minimize their symptoms and enhance their learning and growth. Early diagnosis and access to the proper interventions such as cognitive behavior therapy, occupational therapy, and social-skills training can have positive impacts on symptoms and skill development. The autism community will benefit greatly from more detailed and conclusive research on the pathogenesis of ASD to develop even more effective treatments.
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