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Associations Between Sensory Processing and Irritability in Prader-Willi Syndrome: Beyond Genetic Subtypes and
Erina Nakane1, Hiroyuki Ogata1, Sohei Saima1
1Department of Psychiatry, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Koshigaya, Saitama, Japan.
American Journal of Medical Genetics. Part A
|April 29, 2026
Summary
Sensory processing significantly impacts irritability in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), independent of genetics and medication. Understanding sensory profiles is key for effective interventions and environmental adjustments in PWS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Irritability is a primary challenge in Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS).
- Understanding the factors contributing to irritability is crucial for developing effective interventions.
- Previous research has not fully elucidated the role of sensory processing in PWS-related irritability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the independent contribution of sensory processing to irritability in individuals with PWS.
- To control for clinical and genetic factors when assessing the impact of sensory processing on irritability.
- To identify specific sensory processing patterns associated with irritability in PWS.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 101 individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) was studied.
- Caregivers completed the Japanese version of the Short Sensory Profile (SSP-J) and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC-J).
- Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the data, controlling for age, sex, genetic subtype, and medication use.
Main Results:
- Sensory processing variables explained an additional 38.2% of the variance in irritability, totaling 60.6% with clinical and genetic factors.
- Auditory filtering, under-responsiveness/seeking sensation, and visual/auditory sensitivity were significant independent predictors of irritability.
- The association between the maternal uniparental disomy (mUPD) genetic subtype and irritability became non-significant after accounting for sensory variables.
Conclusions:
- Sensory processing is a robust predictor of irritability in PWS, independent of genetic subtype and medication.
- Evaluating individual sensory profiles is essential for tailoring environmental adaptations and behavioral interventions in PWS.
- These findings highlight the importance of addressing sensory needs in managing irritability in Prader-Willi syndrome.
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