Neurobiological Bases of Autism

Authors: Shehata GA*, Abdellatif HA, Elsayed M

DOI: 10.23880/pprij-16000283

Volume 6, Issue 3

Abstract

Autism is a neuro-developmental disorder, which is associated with impaired social interactions and communication. The biological basis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is still not fully understood. ASD has an early onset in life and a complex, heterogeneous, multifactorial etiology. In this review, we try to include the main findings on the genetic influence, neuropathology, neuron structure, and brain networks considered in Autism. Other findings from peripheral samples of subjects with autism and animal models, which show immune, oxidative, mitochondrial dysregulation, are reported. Then, other biomarkers involved and clinical evaluations from very different systems associated with Autism are reported. Finally, it is attempted to integrate the available evidence, which points to an oligogenic, multifactorial etiology that converges in micro-organization of the cortex, with abnormal functioning of the synapses and abnormalities in very general physiological pathways as inflammatory, immune, and redox systems. Although behavioral and educational therapies have been the mainstay of managing ASD, social, pharmacological, and interventional treatments, have also shown some benefit in ASD subjects. The key architecture of ASD development, which could be a target for treatment, is still uncharted territory. Further work is needed to increase the horizons on the understanding of ASD.

Keywords: Autism; Neurobiological basis; Genetic in ASD; Pharmacological and interventional treatments in ASD

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