Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social deficits, communication challenges, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. A considerable proportion of individuals with ASD also have an intellectual disability and undertake self-injurious behaviors, which complicate therapeutic interventions and impact social integration, job security, and independent living. Here we will discuss how alterations in the processing of neuronal information during neurodevelopment are related to the temporal emergence of ASD symptoms. We will discuss how hyperconnectivity due to impaired synaptic pruning has been linked to excessive neural noise, reducing the brain’s signal-to-noise ratio and leading to heightened sensory sensitivity, inefficient information processing, and difficulties in social interaction. Since early sensory processing abnormalities can impair exteroception, interoception, and proprioception, affecting an individual’s ability to understand and communicate internal and external states, this diminished perceptual fidelity may contribute to the emergence of maladaptive behaviors and further exacerbate communication difficulties. Given the role of neuroplasticity, early therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing sensory processing and reducing neural noise may significantly improve outcomes. While modifying intrinsic neurobiological factors remains challenging, adapting external environments to support sensory regulation and targeted behavioral therapies can facilitate social integration and skill development. We expect that this information will be useful for anyone interested in having insights into the neurobiological basis of disability in ASD.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Hyperconnectivity and Disrupted Signal-to-Noise Processing in Autism

  • Agenor Limon,
  • Mayra Corona-Moreno

摘要

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social deficits, communication challenges, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. A considerable proportion of individuals with ASD also have an intellectual disability and undertake self-injurious behaviors, which complicate therapeutic interventions and impact social integration, job security, and independent living. Here we will discuss how alterations in the processing of neuronal information during neurodevelopment are related to the temporal emergence of ASD symptoms. We will discuss how hyperconnectivity due to impaired synaptic pruning has been linked to excessive neural noise, reducing the brain’s signal-to-noise ratio and leading to heightened sensory sensitivity, inefficient information processing, and difficulties in social interaction. Since early sensory processing abnormalities can impair exteroception, interoception, and proprioception, affecting an individual’s ability to understand and communicate internal and external states, this diminished perceptual fidelity may contribute to the emergence of maladaptive behaviors and further exacerbate communication difficulties. Given the role of neuroplasticity, early therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing sensory processing and reducing neural noise may significantly improve outcomes. While modifying intrinsic neurobiological factors remains challenging, adapting external environments to support sensory regulation and targeted behavioral therapies can facilitate social integration and skill development. We expect that this information will be useful for anyone interested in having insights into the neurobiological basis of disability in ASD.