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Full-field electroretinogram in autism spectrum disorder
Paul A Constable1,2, Sebastian B Gaigg3, Dermot M Bowler3
1Department of Optometry and Vision Science, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA, 5001, Australia. paul.constable@flinders.edu.au.
Documenta Ophthalmologica. Advances in Ophthalmology
|February 13, 2016
Summary
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit reduced scotopic electroretinogram (ERG) b-wave amplitudes, indicating altered cone-ON bipolar signaling. Some also show subnormal dark-adapted ERG b-wave amplitudes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition.
- Previous research suggests potential visual system differences in ASD.
- Scotopic electroretinogram (ERG) measures retinal function, particularly rod pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate reduced scotopic ERG b-wave amplitudes in individuals with ASD.
- To explore differences in light-adapted (LA) and dark-adapted (DA) ERG responses between ASD and control groups.
Main Methods:
- Performed LA and DA ERGs across a range of flash strengths in high-functioning ASD (N=11) and control (N=15/14) groups.
- Applied Naka-Rushton analysis to DA b-wave amplitude growth.
- Recorded scotopic 15-Hz and LA 30-Hz flicker ERGs, oscillatory potentials (OPs), and prolonged ON-OFF stimuli.
Main Results:
- ASD group showed reduced LA b-wave amplitude (p < 0.001) and prolonged ON response (p = 0.003).
- No significant group differences in DA b-wave amplitude growth or Naka-Rushton parameters.
- Some ASD individuals had subnormal DA ERG b-wave amplitudes; DA b-wave time to peak was longer in ASD (p=0.04).
Conclusions:
- Reduced LA b-wave and prolonged ON response in ASD suggest altered cone-ON bipolar cell signaling.
- Exploratory findings highlight potential visual pathway differences in ASD.
- Further research is needed to confirm these ERG findings in ASD.
