Ocular manifestations in autism spectrum disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Ophthalmology
• Genetics

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition impacting the central nervous system.
• Shared embryological origins exist between the brain and retina, influencing visual processing.
• Individuals with ASD often display visual impairments, affecting face recognition and gaze control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent research on ocular alterations in ASD patients and animal models.
• To explore the molecular mechanisms behind vision dysfunction in ASD.
• To enhance understanding of the eye-brain connection in ASD.

Main Methods:

• Ophthalmic assessments such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electroretinography (ERG).
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms in improved ASD animal models.
• Review of existing studies on retinal alterations in ASD.

Main Results:

• Documented retinal alterations in individuals with ASD through various ophthalmic assessments.
• Evidence suggests impairments in visual mechanisms linked to ASD.
• ASD animal models provide insights into vision dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Retinal alterations are observed in ASD, supporting the eye-brain connection.
• Further investigation into molecular mechanisms is crucial for understanding vision dysfunction in ASD.
• This review contributes to the ongoing research on ocular manifestations of ASD.