Autism: A “Critical Period” Disorder?
2011
Autism: A Critical Period Disorder?
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Jocelyn J. LeBlanc, Michela Fagiolini
Primary Institution: Harvard Medical School and The F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children's Hospital Boston
Hypothesis
Alteration of the expression and/or timing of critical period circuit refinement in primary sensory brain areas may significantly contribute to autistic phenotypes.
Conclusion
The study suggests that disruptions in critical periods of brain development may lead to the sensory and behavioral symptoms observed in autism.
Supporting Evidence
- Critical periods are times when the brain is especially sensitive to experiences.
- Disruption of sensory processing during these periods can lead to long-lasting deficits.
- Autism is associated with an imbalance in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission.
Takeaway
The brain is very flexible when we're young, but if things go wrong during important learning times, it can lead to problems like autism.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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