Treatment Of Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Articles

Family-Centric Applied Behavior Analysis Facilitates Improved Treatment Utilization and Outcomes.

Background/Objective: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by lifelong impacts on functional social and daily living skills, and restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRBs). Applied behavior analysis (ABA), the gold-standard treatment for ASD, has been extensively validated. ABA access is hindered by limited availability of qualified professionals and logistical and financial barriers. Scientifically validated, parent-led ABA can fill the accessibility gap by overcoming treatment barriers. This retrospective cohort study examines how our ABA treatment model, utilizing parent behavior technicians (pBTs) to deliver ABA, impacts adaptive behaviors and interfering behaviors (IBs) in a cohort of children on the autism spectrum with varying ASD severity levels, and with or without clinically significant IBs. Methods: Clinical outcomes of 36 patients ages 3-15 years were assessed using longitudinal changes in Vineland-3 after 3+ months of pBT-delivered ABA treatment. Results: Within the pBT model, our patients demonstrated clinically significant improvements in Vineland-3 Composite, domain, and subdomain scores, and utilization was higher in severe ASD. pBTs utilized more prescribed ABA when children initiated treatment with clinically significant IBs, and these children also showed greater gains in their Composite scores. Study limitations include sample size, inter-rater reliability, potential assessment metric bias and schedule variability, and confounding intrinsic or extrinsic factors. Conclusion: Overall, our pBT model facilitated high treatment utilization and showed robust effectiveness, achieving improved adaptive behaviors and reduced IBs when compared to conventional ABA delivery. The pBT model is a strong contender to fill the widening treatment accessibility gap and represents a powerful tool for addressing systemic problems in ABA treatment delivery.

Recent advances in the virtual reality technology for treating children with autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the neurodevelopmental disorders in children, and there are currently no specific treatments, with the main interventions focusing on educational training and behavioral correction. Virtual reality, as an emerging technology, is a computer-based environmental simulation system that achieves interactive dynamics and immersive experiences by integrating information from multiple sources. In recent years, it has been gradually applied in intervention training for children with ASD. This paper reviews the recent studies on the effects of virtual reality intervention on emotional cognition, social skills, daily living skills, motor skills, and specific phobias in children with ASD, offering a new direction for ASD intervention training.

Role of Gut-Brain Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Focus on the Neuroinflammation and Microglial Polarization

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social behavior and gives rise to repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. The complexity of ASD suggests the influence of multiple etiological factors, including genetic, environmental and immunological elements. Recently, the gut-brain axis has emerged as a significant field of interest, proposing an intriguing connection between the composition of the gut microbiota and the neurobehavioral manifestations of ASD. This narrative review explores the current evidence linking the gut-brain axis to neuroinflammation and microglial polarization in the context of ASD. This review highlights the importance of integrated approaches to understanding the complexity of ASD, pointing to the need for further research exploring the role of the gut-brain axis as a potential therapeutic target. We conclude that a deeper understanding of the interactions between gut microbiota, neuroinflammation and microglial activity may reveal new avenues for more effective interventions in ASD.

The role of physical activity and sport in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Abstract: Background: Various health-related benefits of physical activity (PA) in children and adolescents have been reported, with suggestions that PA could effectively address certain deficits found in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, there remains insufficient engagement in PA among individuals with ASD, and barriers to accessing PA persist. Objective: This study aims to review PA interventions (types, frequencies, and durations) in ASD over the last five years and discuss their effects. Methods: Searches were conducted in the PubMed database from October to December 2022 using Mesh Terms: “adolescent” OR “children” AND “sport” OR “physical activity” AND “mental health” AND/OR “autism.” Results were critically appraised using PEDro and Cochrane’s ROB-2, categorized into five stages to assess potential bias. Results: A total of ten papers were included and appraised, examining various types of PA. Primary benefits observed in children and adolescents included the development of social skills, reduction of autistic traits, regulation of emotions, and management of behaviour and cognition. Conclusions: Evidence indicates that PA can effectively address some neuropsychological deficits in ASD. Additionally, managing and protecting against metabolic conditions through PA can significantly enhance overall health.

Reversing valproic acid-induced autism-like behaviors through a combination of low-frequency repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a neurostimulation device used to modulate brain cortex activity. Our objective was to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of low-frequency repeated TMS (LF-rTMS) in a rat model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) induced by prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure through the injection of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). For the induction of ASD, we administered prenatal VPA (600 mg/kg, I.P.) on the 12.5th day of pregnancy. At postnatal day 30, SPIONs were injected directly into the lateral ventricle of the brain. Subsequently, LF-rTMS treatment was applied for 14 consecutive days. Following the treatment period, behavioral analyses were conducted. At postnatal day 60, brain tissue was extracted, and both biochemical and histological analyses were performed. Our data revealed that prenatal VPA exposure led to behavioral alterations, including changes in social interactions, increased anxiety, and repetitive behavior, along with dysfunction in stress coping strategies. Additionally, we observed reduced levels of SYN, MAP2, and BDNF. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in dendritic spine density in the hippocampal CA1 area. However, LF-rTMS treatment combined with SPIONs successfully reversed these dysfunctions at the behavioral, biochemical, and histological levels, introducing a successful approach for the treatment of ASD.

Resveratrol regulates Thoc5 to improve maternal immune activation-induced autism-like behaviors in adult mouse offspring

Maternal infection during pregnancy is an important cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in offspring, and inflammatory infiltration caused by maternal immune activation (MIA) can cause neurodevelopmental disorders in the fetus. Medicine food homologous (MFH) refers to a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) concept, which effectively combines food functions and medicinal effects. However, no previous study has screened, predicted, and validated the potential targets of MFH herbs for treating ASD. Therefore, in this study, we used comprehensive bioinformatics methods to screen and analyze MFH herbs and drug targets on a large scale, and identified resveratrol and Thoc5 as the best small molecular ingredient and drug target, respectively, for the treatment of MIA-induced ASD. Additionally, the results of in vitro experiments revealed that resveratrol increased the expression of Thoc5 and effectively inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory factor production by BV2 cells. Moreover, in vivo, resveratrol increased the expression of Thoc5 and effectively inhibited placental and fetal brain inflammation in MIA pregnancy mice, and improved ASD-like behaviors in offspring.

Roles of Epigenetics and Glial Cells in Drug-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by severe deficits in social communication and interaction, repetitive movements, abnormal focusing on objects, or activity that can significantly affect the quality of life of the afflicted. Neuronal and glial cells have been implicated. It has a genetic component but can also be triggered by environmental factors or drugs. For example, prenatal exposure to valproic acid or acetaminophen, or ingestion of propionic acid, can increase the risk of ASD. Recently, epigenetic influences on ASD have come to the forefront of investigations on the etiology, prevention, and treatment of this disorder. Epigenetics refers to DNA modifications that alter gene expression without making any changes to the DNA sequence. Although an increasing number of pharmaceuticals and environmental chemicals are being implicated in the etiology of ASD, here, we specifically focus on the molecular influences of the abovementioned chemicals on epigenetic alterations in neuronal and glial cells and their potential connection to ASD. We conclude that a better understanding of these phenomena can lead to more effective interventions in ASD.

Occupational therapy interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders - a Rapid Review

Introduction: This rapid review aimed to synthesise evidence for occupational therapy intervention in the management of autism spectrum disorders. The review forms part of a series of rapid reviews commissioned by the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa to help inform decision making as South Africa prepares for a new health system.
 Method: Level I and II research studies published from 2017 - 2022 were considered for inclusion. Electronic database searches were conducted on the Cochrane database. The identified records were screened in Rayyan according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality assessment of the selected articles was done with the CASP appraisal tool. Data were extracted to a custom Microsoft Excel® worksheet and analysed quantitatively by percentage/frequency and qualitatively by thematic analysis of statements.
 Results: Thirty-eight records were selected. These included 30 systematic reviews and eight randomised controlled trials. Twelve intervention domains across four age groups were identified with sensory integration and social skills interventions most frequently examined. Interventions were delivered across various venues, including mediation and technology (e.g., telehealth interventions). A number of different outcome measures were used.
 Conclusion: There is evidence to support the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan for twelve different domains.
 Implications for practice
 
 Occupational Therapists are involved in the provision of therapy intervention across all age groups for people with ASD.
 Intervention can successfully take place in a clinic setting, but also at home or through means of technology.
 There is growing evidence for sensory integration therapy or techniques when considering functional outcomes when treating people with ASD.
 There is a lack of Level I and II research in the form of randomised control trials and systematic reviews regarding ASD intervention in sub-Saharan Africa.
 

Family systemic therapy: intervention in autism spectrum disorder

IntroductionAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by communication impairments and difficulties in social interaction. These impairments can affect relationships with family members, increase stress and frustration for both the patient and family members, and contribute to behavioral disturbances in these patients. They are frequently associated with high rates of psychiatric comorbidity.ObjectivesGiven the impact of this disorder on the family unit, we set out to assess the clinical effectiveness of systemic family therapy, its influence on improving communication and coping with this disorder, strengthening relationships and mental health in these patients and their families.MethodsA literature review was performed by searching for articles in Pubmed on May 24, 2023, focusing the terminology used on “Autism Spectrum Disorder” and “Systemic Family Therapy”. The search was limited to full text articles in English and Spanish, published in the last 10 years.ResultsSeveral authors have stated that systemic family therapy could be beneficial:-Providing education.-Reporting additional educational resources.-Focusing sessions on improving social and communication skills, mood and coping behaviors.-Providing therapy to all family members to cope with this disorder and what it implies. It will be very important that the patient with ASD understands his condition and can receive support from his family, working with siblings on the bonding and coping with this condition.-Contributing to facilitate mourning the loss of the condition of “neurotypical” person, exploring emotions, feelings and belief systems, valuing the social and cultural context of the family. ConclusionsReviewing a variety of literature on this therapeutic approach, the authors concluded that “strategic, narrative and structural interventions can be applied from multiple approaches, especially suited to the challenges often faced by patients with ASD and their families”. Therapeutic work needs to involve different family members at different times. Therapeutic conversations will consider the child, the family and the family unit in context. Studies so far have not been able to establish whether particular systemic approaches have more favorable outcomes than others, which warrants further research.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

An Update on Psychopharmacological Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

While behavioral interventions remain the mainstay of treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), several potential targeted treatments addressing the underlying neurophysiology of ASD have emerged in the last few years. These are promising for the potential to, in future, become part of the mainstay treatment in addressing the core symptoms of ASD. Although it is likely that the development of future targeted treatments will be influenced by the underlying heterogeneity in etiology, associated genetic mechanisms influencing ASD are likely to be the first targets of treatments and even gene therapy in the future for ASD. In this article, we provide a review of current psychopharmacological treatment in ASD including those used to address common comorbidities of the condition and upcoming new targeted approaches in autism management. Medications including metformin, arbaclofen, cannabidiol, oxytocin, bumetanide, lovastatin, trofinetide, and dietary supplements including sulforophane and N-acetylcysteine are discussed. Commonly used medications to address the comorbidities associated with ASD including atypical antipsychotics, serotoninergic agents, alpha-2 agonists, and stimulant medications are also reviewed. Targeted treatments in Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common genetic disorder leading to ASD, provide a model for new treatments that may be helpful for other forms of ASD. Appeared originally in Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:248-262.

Nutritional Supplements in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review

Nutritional Supplements in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review

Conceptualizing Co-occurring Autism Spectrum Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Gender Diversity in Adolescents: A Narrative Review

Differential diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in adolescents is difficult due to similar behavioral topography. For instance, restrictive, repetitive behavior, cognitive rigidity, anxiety, and avoidance contribute to impairment in social relationships and daily living skills in both conditions. The diagnostic picture for youth with ASD and/or OCD may be further clouded by high rates of co-occurring gender-diverse clinical concerns, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, tic disorder, depression, and anxiety disorders With increased prevalence and improved identification of ASD, OCD, and gender-identity-related distress, more adolescents are seeking treatment. It is vital that providers are knowledgeable about best practices for diagnosing and treating these overlapping symptoms. This review describes the state of the literature regarding presentation and prevalence of ASD, OCD, and gender-identity concerns separately and as co-occurring phenomena. Sex differences and gender-diversity among individuals with ASD and OCD are also reviewed. We briefly describe evidence-based behavioral treatments for ASD, OCD, gender-identity-related distress as separate and co-occurring considerations. Recommendations for tailoring within these therapies and family involvement are discussed.

Resolving neuroinflammatory and social deficits in ASD model mice: Dexmedetomidine downregulates NF-κB/IL-6 pathway via α2AR

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that severely affects individuals’ daily life and social development. Unfortunately, there are currently no effective treatments for ASD. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a selective agonist of α2 adrenergic receptor (α2AR) and is widely used as a first-line medication for sedation and hypnosis in clinical practice. In recent years, there have been reports suggesting its potential positive effects on improving emotional and cognitive functions. However, whether dexmedetomidine has therapeutic effects on the core symptoms of ASD, namely social deficits and repetitive behaviors, remains to be investigated. In the present study, we employed various behavioral tests to assess the phenotypes of animals, including the three-chamber, self-grooming, marble burying, open field, and elevated plus maze. Additionally, electrophysiological recordings, western blotting, qPCR were mainly used to investigate and validate the potential mechanisms underlying the role of dexmedetomidine. We found that intraperitoneal injection of dexmedetomidine in ASD model mice-BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice could adaptively improve their social deficits. Further, we observed a significant reduction in c-Fos positive signals and interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression level in the prelimbic cortex (PrL) of the BTBR mice treated with dexmedetomidine. Enhancing or inhibiting the action of IL-6 directly affects the social behavior of BTBR mice. Mechanistically, we have found that NF-κB p65 is a key pathway regulating IL-6 expression in the PrL region. In addition, we have confirmed that the α2AR acts as a receptor switch mediating the beneficial effects of dexmedetomidine in improving social deficits. This study provides the first evidence of the beneficial effects of dexmedetomidine on core symptoms of ASD and offers a theoretical basis and potential therapeutic approach for the clinical treatment of ASD.

The Effects of Applied Behavior Analysis on Verbal Behavior With Autistic Individuals Using the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VBMAPP) and the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS).

Introduction Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a fundamental practice-based intervention for treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Few studies have directly measured and evaluated the effects of ABA on verbal behaviors, mainly using the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VBMAPP) and the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS) as outcome measures. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the relationship between ABA interventions and the enhancement of verbal skills, as measured by the VBMAPP and the ABLLS, in a convenience sample of individuals with ASD. Materials and methods At The Oxford Centers (TOCs) in Brighton and Troy, Michigan, USA, 33 individuals with autism received treatment from January 2018 to July 2021, spanning 43 months. A pretest-posttest design was employed to retrospectively examine any impacts between ABA interventions and alterations in verbal scores among individuals with ASD. Depending on developmental age, all subjects underwent two verbal assessments with a six-month interval in-between. Twelve children were administered the VBMAPP, while 21 were given the ABLLS. Results Paired t-tests for pretest and posttest VBMAPP subscales resulted in statistically significant effects (p<0.05) for (VBMAPP - Mand), (VBMAPP - Tact), (VBMAPP - Listener Responding), (VBMAPP - Visual Perceptual Skills and Matching-to-Sample), (VBMAPP -Independent Play), (VBMAPP - Social Play), (VBMAPP - Motor Imitation), (VBMAPP - Spontaneous Vocalization), (VBMAPP - Intraverbal), (VBMAPP - Group Behavior), and (VBMAPP - Linguistic Structure). As measured by Cohen's d, effect sizes were moderate to mostly high (-0.623to -1.688). There were non-significant results (p>0.05) for (VBMAPP - Listener Responding by Feature, Function, and Class) and (VBMAPP - Echoic). Paired t-tests for pretest and posttest ABLLS subscales resulted in statistically significant effects (p<.05) for all ABLLS scales: (ABLLS - Receptive Language), (ABLLS - Requests), (ABLLS - Labeling), (ABLLS - Intraverbals), (ABLLS - Spontaneous Vocalizations), (ABLLS - Syntax Grammar), (ABLLS - Social Interactions), and (ABLLS - Generalized Responding).As measured by Cohen's d, effect sizes were moderate to mostly high (-0.656 to -1.372). Conclusions The administration of ABA treatments had a noteworthy influence, with statistically significant impacts on improving verbal behaviors on 11 of the 13 VBMAPP scales and all of the ABLLS scales. As measured by Cohen's d, effect sizes were moderate to high for both scales. These findings underscore the importance and effectiveness of ABA interventions in enhancing verbal skills in children with ASD. However, it's crucial to note that further confirmatory studies are required to verify the reliability of these original findings, emphasizing the ongoing need for research in this field.

"Therapeutic potential of licorice extract in a prenatal valproic acid model of autism spectrum disorder in Wistar rats: Neurobehavioral and neurobiochemical insights"

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), impose significant burdens on society due to their genetic and clinical complexity. We explored the therapeutic potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) extract in a prenatal valproic acid (VPA) model of ASD. Neurobehavioral parameters encompassing social interaction, locomotor activity, repetitive behaviour, anxiety-related behaviour, and learning and memory were assessed in Wistar rat offspring. Licorice extract administration at 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg was initiated from postnatal day 21, emulating the developmental stage of early childhood. The study incorporated a controlled group, a VPA-induced ASD group, and groups treated with two different doses of licorice extract and Risperidone.Results revealed that licorice extract, particularly at 300 mg/kg, exhibited remarkable potential in restoring social interaction deficits, enhancing locomotor activity, attenuating repetitive behaviour, and mitigating anxiety-related behaviour-like behaviours. Furthermore, licorice extract displayed cognitive benefits, as evidenced by the discrimination index enhancement in object recognition memory. Importantly, licorice extract demonstrated modulatory effects on neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, evident through suppressed interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, as well as reduced thiobarbaturic acid reactive substances (TBARS) in the brain.These findings underscore the promising neuroprotective properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract against prenatal VPA-induced ASD-like behaviours. The elucidation of licorice's multifaceted impact on behaviour, cognition, and neurobiochemical markers offers a potential avenue for future therapeutic interventions for ASD, meriting further investigation in clinical contexts. This study contributes to the expanding knowledge of natural compounds in ameliorating complex neurodevelopmental disorders and highlights the necessity of multi-faceted approaches to address their intricate etiology and manifestation.

Using Restricted Interests in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results From a Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial.

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit significant deficits in social communication and emotion regulation skills. While cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) applications appear promising, trials to date have largely excluded social communication skill development and have not been designed to include a wider range of emotional challenges. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to pilot a uniquely modified CBT program targeting emotion regulation, including social communication training, and explicitly focusing on the child's areas of circumscribed interest in order to teach skills and promote generalization. Forty participants were randomly assigned to either the CBT group or a waitlist control (WLC) group, resulting in 20 school-aged children in each group. The treatment approach was determined to be feasible and acceptable, and therapy engagement and attendance were reasonably high. Caregivers expressed high satisfaction with the program, qualitatively citing gains in skills such as social problem-solving, emotion identification, and identifying and processing cognitive distortions. The primary outcome of postintervention changes was not significantly different between the groups (CBT vs. WLC). The mean Social Skills Improvement System score decreased by 0.44 points (95% confidence interval [CI]: -5.04, 4.15) in the CBT group and increased by 0.41 points (95% CI: -4.23, 5.04) in the WLC group, and the postintervention changes were not significantly different between the groups (difference: -0.85; 95% CI: -7.29, 5.60; p = .79). The estimated rate of emotional dysregulation episodes decreased by a factor of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.57, 1.56) in the CBT group and increased by a factor of 1.07 (95% CI: 0.51, 2.24) for WLC (p = .74). Among those who reported emotional dysregulation episodes, the mean duration decreased by 1.39 minutes (95% CI: -3.90, 6.67) less for CBT than waitlist (p = .60). Although satisfaction, acceptability, and emotional dysregulation outcome results from this preliminary CBT treatment for ASD are promising, sample size and measurement limitations will be important considerations to inform future trials.

Developmental Dopaminergic Signaling Modulates Neural Circuit Formation and Contributes to Autism Spectrum Disorder–Related Phenotypes

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex etiology. Recent evidence suggests that dopamine plays a crucial role in neural development. However, it remains unclear whether and how disrupted dopaminergic signaling during development contributes to ASD. In this study, human brain RNA-seq transcriptome analysis revealed a significant correlation between changes in dopaminergic signaling pathways and neural developmental signaling in ASD patients. In the zebrafish model, disrupted developmental dopaminergic signaling led to neural circuit abnormalities and behavior reminiscent of autism. Dopaminergic signaling may impact neuronal specification by potentially modulating integrins. These findings shed light on the mechanisms underlying the link between disrupted developmental dopamine signaling and ASD, and they point to the possibility of targeting dopaminergic signaling in early development for ASD treatment.

Dietary nutrients that potentially mitigate autism spectrum disorder and dietary recommendations for children and pregnant women

AbstractThe increasing incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) worldwide poses serious social and family problems. Various risk factors for ASD are gradually being recognized, and there are also various options for the treatment of ASD. It is worth noting that dietary interventions have been shown to have a positive effect in terms of mitigating and preventing some psychiatric disorders, such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and ASD, and they are gradually receiving attention as a safe adjuvant treatment. In this review, based on the current understanding of the pathogenic factors and intervention strategies for ASD, different dietary patterns that can be selected for children with ASD are discussed in depth. Moreover, a review was conducted on the use of dietary factors, such as natural products from food sources, prebiotics, and probiotics, as effective supplements to existing dietary patterns. As increasing evidence shows that maternal risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, are associated with an increased risk of ASD in offspring, dietary suggestions are also made for pregnant woman with ASD‐related risk factors to counteract the impact of these risk factors. With compensation from food‐derived natural products, prebiotics, and probiotics, suitable dietary patterns can further enhance the effectiveness of dietary interventions for ASD. In addition, dietary recommendations for pregnant woman may reduce the potential impact of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension and may help to prevent the occurrence of ASD to the maximum extent possible.

Neural responses to syllable-induced P1m and social impairment in children with autism spectrum disorder and typically developing Peers.

In previous magnetoencephalography (MEG) studies, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been shown to respond differently to speech stimuli than typically developing (TD) children. Quantitative evaluation of this difference in responsiveness may support early diagnosis and intervention for ASD. The objective of this research is to investigate the relationship between syllable-induced P1m and social impairment in children with ASD and TD children. We analyzed 49 children with ASD aged 40-92 months and age-matched 26 TD children. We evaluated their social impairment by means of the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) and their intelligence ability using the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC). Multiple regression analysis with SRS score as the dependent variable and syllable-induced P1m latency or intensity and intelligence ability as explanatory variables revealed that SRS score was associated with syllable-induced P1m latency in the left hemisphere only in the TD group and not in the ASD group. A second finding was that increased leftward-lateralization of intensity was correlated with higher SRS scores only in the ASD group. These results provide valuable insights but also highlight the intricate nature of neural mechanisms and their relationship with autistic traits.

Association between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cancer - a Review from the Literature

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is neurodevelopmental polygenic disorder with strong genetic component. In adult period, it is associated with many chronic diseases including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.&#x0D; The aim of this article is to show possible connection between autism spectrum disorder and some kinds of cancers, and to show possible pathways for prevention and treatment.&#x0D; Methodology: The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched using the keywords: autism spectrum disorder, genetics, cancer, prevention and treatment.&#x0D; Results: Autism spectrum disorder is associated with high rates of genomic aberrations, including chromosomal rearrangements and de novo copy-number variations. Autism and cancer share 43 risk genes, suggesting that common mechanisms underlying the functions of some of these genes could conceivably be leveraged to develop therapies not just for cancer but for autism as well. Pleiotropy, whereby gene variants exert effects on multiple phenotypes, has been the source of increasing research attention with ASD and cancer.&#x0D; Germline loss-of-function PTEN mutations increase the rate of benign and malignant tumors and also manifest as ASD and macrocephaly. Mutations in TSC1 and TSC2 genes cause tuberous sclerosis complex which is characterized by cortical tubers, and neurocognitive phenotypes including epilepsy, ASD, and intellectual disability (ID).&#x0D; Conclusion: There is may be an association between autism and specific forms of cancer. Further epidemiologic research in large populations is needed to elucidate the association between autism and cancer and identify explanatory factors. Approved drugs targeting oncogenic pathways might also have therapeutic value for treating autism spectrum disorder.