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Dynamic Clamp Methods to Investigate Impaired Neuronal Excitability Associated with Autism
Published on: October 17, 2025
Neurochemistry in the pathophysiology of autism
Christopher J McDougle1, Craig A Erickson, Kimberly A Stigler
1Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202-4800, USA. cmcdougl@iupui.edu
Abstract:
Significant progress has been made in the search for underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms in autism over the past 50 years. The cause of the disorder, however, remains largely unknown. This article reviews neurochemical contributions to the pathophysiology of autism with a focus on monoamines, glutamate/gamma-aminobutyric acid systems, and neuropeptides. As these efforts move forward, it will be important to begin to integrate genetic studies with those involving neuroimaging and postmortem research in each of these 3 areas, as well as with pharmacologic treatment approaches.
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