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The teratology of autism

Tara L Arndt1, Christopher J Stodgell, Patricia M Rodier

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.

International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the International Society for Developmental Neuroscience
|March 8, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) brain alterations occur early in development, often before behavioral symptoms are apparent. Evidence suggests these changes begin before birth, impacting early social and communication development.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Developmental neuroscience

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) behaviors manifest during critical social development periods.
  • Evidence indicates underlying brain alterations precede observable symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the early developmental origins of autism spectrum disorder.
  • To correlate environmental risk factors and developmental timing with ASD.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of behavioral studies in infants.
  • Review of histological and congenital anomaly data.
  • Examination of animal models exposed to teratogens.

Main Results:

  • ASD symptoms detectable within the first 6 months of life.
  • Environmental risk factors act during embryogenesis.
  • Early developmental alterations are consistent with histological findings and congenital syndromes.

Conclusions:

  • Autism spectrum disorder originates from early developmental disruptions.
  • Valproic acid exposure in rat embryos mimics human ASD features.
  • Understanding early developmental timing is crucial for autism research.

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