Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2025
07:38
Strategies for Assessing Autistic-Like Behaviors in Mice
Published on: September 20, 2024
1.1K
Conceptualizing Epigenetics and the Environmental Landscape of Autism Spectrum Disorders
German Torres1, Mervat Mourad2, Saba Iqbal3
1Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Medaille College, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
Genes
|September 28, 2023
Summary
This review explores how gene variants and environmental factors contribute to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It examines evolutionary, molecular, and epigenetic influences on brain development in ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Major psychiatric disorders arise from complex gene-environment interactions.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) involves genetic susceptibility, epigenetic factors, and brain mutations.
- Understanding ASD etiology requires examining evolutionary, molecular, and epigenetic mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent evolutionary, molecular, and epigenetic mechanisms linked to autism etiology.
- To provide insights into the interplay between epigenetic and environmental variations in ASD development.
Main Methods:
- Clinical vignette describing maladaptive behaviors in autistic patients.
- Microdissection of brain regions relevant to autism nosology and cell networks.
- Cataloging pathogenic environments and associated disease risk factors.
Main Results:
- Identified clusters of maladaptive behaviors in autistic patients.
- Detailed brain regions and cell networks implicated in ASD.
- Cataloged environmental risk factors contributing to ASD.
Conclusions:
- Gene variants and environmental factors are crucial in ASD pathophysiology.
- Epigenetic and environmental variations dynamically interact in ASD development.
- This review offers emerging insights into the complex etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
121
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
121
01:20Gene-Environment Interactions
346
Gene expression is a dynamic process that is significantly influenced by environmental factors. This interaction underlies the complex nature of biological development and the phenotypic differences observed among individuals, even among those with identical genetic makeups. Factors such as radiation, temperature, behavior, nutrition, and stress play pivotal roles in determining how genes are expressed. The concept of the reaction range is central to understanding this interaction. It posits...
346
02:27Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
6.6K
Although the genetic makeup of an organism plays a major role in determining the phenotype, there are also several environmental factors, such as temperature, oxygen availability, presence of mutagens, that can alter an organism’s phenotype.
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
6.6K
01:28Human Genetics
601
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
601
01:23Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
394
Behavior genetics explores how genetic inheritance influences human behavior. It focuses on how genes, passed from parents to offspring, contribute to the development of behavioral traits and tendencies. This branch of genetics seeks to understand the complex interplay between inherited genetic factors and environmental influences in shaping our behaviors.
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
394
01:46Epigenetic Regulation
31.1K
Epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in healthy development. Conversely, precisely regulated epigenetic mechanisms are disrupted in diseases like cancer.
31.1K