Hormonal disorders in autism spectrum disorders.

Area of Science:

• Neurobiology
• Endocrinology
• Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
• Emerging research highlights the role of neural, anatomical, and chemical factors in ASD pathophysiology.
• Hormonal imbalances are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the association between key hormones and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
• To provide a concise overview of hormones as potential therapeutic targets for ASD.
• To synthesize current literature on hormonal influences in ASD development and management.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of scientific databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Semantic Scholar.
• Selection of relevant manuscripts focusing on the relationship between hormones and ASD.
• Review and synthesis of findings from selected studies.

Main Results:

• Specific hormones such as Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) and melatonin show altered levels in individuals with ASD (e.g., reduced IGF-1 and melatonin).
• Other hormones including serotonin, thyroid hormones, oxytocin, and vasopressin are implicated in ASD.
• These hormonal variations suggest a potential link between endocrine function and ASD characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Hormonal factors, including IGF-1 and melatonin, are significantly associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Understanding these hormonal associations may pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate ASD effects.
• Further research into hormone-based interventions holds promise for managing ASD.