Early Embryogenesis
Contents
Early Embryogenesis and ASD
- History
Those with ASD are highly heterogeneous in symptom severity, genetic composition, and comorbid conditions. Despite this, much research in Autism Spectrum Disorders focuses on discrete abnormalities that are seen in ASD individuals. It is generally accepted that autism is caused by variants in many different genes. However, it is unknown how a particular genetic composition leads to the development of autism. Imprinting may contribute to the 4:1 ratio of affected males to females diagnosed with ASD.
Disturbances during early embryogenesis would explain the heterogeneity in, symptoms, comorbidities with other psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, and physical abnormalities displayed by those with ASD. Although the theory is difficult to test,
- Theory
Supporters of a early organogenesis hypothesis believe disturbances (both genetic and environmental) during early organogenesis cause the pleiotropic effects seen in autism.1
Criticisms
Ways to ascertain hypothesis
Neuroimaging
Genetics
Animal Models
Citations
1. Ploeger A. et. al. The association between autism and errors in early embryogenesis: what is the causal mechanism?Biol Psychiatry. 2010 Apr 1;67(7):602-7. PMID 19932467 Imprinting