Etiology

Mark E. Reber

doi:10.1017/CBO9780511978616.007

Chapter 6 - Etiology

essential autism

from Section 1 - What We Know about Autism and How We Know It

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 05 November 2012

Mark E. Reber

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Mark Reber

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Mark Reber: Affiliation:
Drexel University, Philadelphia

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Summary

The previous chapter reviewed the features of ASDs as they occur in several specific genetic disorders with well described syndromic presentations. By following molecular pathways from genes to neurodevelopment, we considered several mechanisms that could explain the emergence of autistic symptoms. These included the genetic defects themselves, abnormalities in the formation of synapses and interneuronal connections, alteration in the balance of neuronal excitation and inhibition, and abnormalities in activity-driven synaptic plasticity. Underlying some of these aberrant neuronal processes was presumed disruption of epigenetically regulated transcription of particular genes.

The present chapter will continue to explore some of the possible etiologic mechanisms for ASDs, looking at the fundamental role of genetic variations, at some possible ways in which genes and the environment might interact, and at abnormalities in other physiologic processes that might mediate the link between genetic vulnerability and the emergence of autism.

The discussion will focus on primary or essential autism – not associated with particular genetic and malformation syndromes. This is also a heterogeneous category: no single mechanism is likely to explain all ASDs.

Type: Chapter
Information: The Autism Spectrum
Scientific Foundations and Treatment
, pp. 145 - 178

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511978616.007 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2012

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Chapter 6 - Etiology

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