Research progress on the main brain network mechanisms of sleep disorders in autism spectrum disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often co-occurs with sleep disorders, which can exacerbate core symptoms such as social impairments and repetitive stereotyped behaviors. Sleep is crucial for brain function, as it enhances cerebrospinal fluid circulation, clears metabolic toxins, and consolidates memories. Despite the high prevalence of these sleep issues in individuals with autism, the specific brain networks involved remain poorly understood. This study reviews recent advancements in identifying the brain network mechanisms underlying sleep disorders in ASD. By focusing on the interplay between autism-related sleep disturbances and brain network functionality, we synthesize current findings to highlight key mechanisms involved. Our research provides a preliminary theoretical framework that advances understanding of how sleep disorders impact brain networks in autism, offering a valuable reference for future investigations in this area.