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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
08:44
Dynamic Clamp Methods to Investigate Impaired Neuronal Excitability Associated with Autism
Published on: October 17, 2025
[Genetics and epigenetics in autism]
Atsuo Nakayama1, Shiego Masaki, Eiko Aoki
1Department of Embryology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Human Service Center, 713-8 Kagiya-cho, Kasugai, 480-0392 Japan. atsuon@inst-hsc.jp
Nihon Shinkei Seishin Yakurigaku Zasshi = Japanese Journal of Psychopharmacology
|January 24, 2007
Summary
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by genetics and environment. Epigenetics may explain how multiple genes and environmental factors interact to cause autism.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
Context:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
- Genetic factors are strongly implicated in ASD etiology, but no single causative gene has been identified.
- Environmental influences are also recognized as contributing factors to ASD development.
Purpose:
- To explore the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors in autism.
- To highlight the potential role of epigenetic regulation in understanding ASD.
- To synthesize current knowledge on autism's multifactorial origins.
Summary:
- ASD is characterized by social, communication, and behavioral challenges.
- While genetics play a significant role, multiple susceptibility genes likely interact.
- Environmental risk factors can influence ASD onset and progression.
- Epigenetic mechanisms offer a potential framework for understanding gene-environment interactions in ASD.
Impact:
- Advances in understanding autism's complex etiology.
- Potential for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting gene-environment interactions.
- Improved insights into neurodevelopmental disorders.
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01:28Human Genetics
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01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
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01:23Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
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01:37Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic changes alter the physical structure of the DNA without changing the genetic sequence and often regulate whether genes are turned on or off. This regulation ensures that each cell produces only proteins necessary for its function. For example, proteins that promote bone growth are not produced in muscle cells. Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
X-chromosome...
X-chromosome...
01:46Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
01:46Epigenetic Regulation
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.