Advances in the Study of Pathogenic Mechanisms Responsible for Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a common and devastating neurodevelopmental disorder. The causes that may involve genetic and epigenetic factors as well as environment factors are still poorly understood and thus there is no identified cure. However, a range of significant advancements have been made in ASD research in the recent years. Scientists have detected abnormalities in brain structure, neurochemistry, cellular and molecular organizations as well as in genetic and epigenetic areas. Findings emerging from these study areas have started to form a clearer picture in the pathogenesis responsible for ASD.

In this Research Topic on “Advances in the study of pathogenic mechanisms responsible for autism”, we would like to invite manuscripts on studies investigating the possible mechanisms that contribute to the development of ASD, including studies on brain structure, functions, molecular biological changes as well as genetic alterations. We also welcome manuscript in the creation of animal models for autism studies. We hope this issue will bring a better understanding of the pathogenesis of ASD at all levels from genetic, neurobiological to cognitive and behavioral, and thus provide clues to develop early diagnosis and better treatment for ASD.