About this Research Topic
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a parasol term covering autism, pervasive development disorder, and Asperger syndrome, refers to deficits in social skills and sensory/motor issues. As the name suggests there is a very wide range of symptoms in individuals diagnosed with ASD, and each individual has his/her own trajectory. The condition has no cure, however in certain cases, the symptoms get suppressed so as to allow smooth daily functioning. Nevertheless, constant support and guidance is required for the development of normal functioning interactive social skills, verbal and non-verbal communication and daily activites. Early diagnosis and intervention is key to overcoming the condition in order to promote a normal independent life. However, lack of appropriate postnatal guidance, lack of knowledge of new parents regarding age-related milestones and hence, difficulty or delay in assessment of ASD symptoms, are some of the key challenges in effective management of ASD.
At present, determining the exact cause of ASD in each diagnosed case is difficult owing to scarce knowledge in the area. There has been evidence highlighting the genetic basis of ASD independent from environmental reasons, however, more rigorous investigations are required to have a concise and comprehensive understanding of all the factors, that may lead to the development of ASD in early childhood. Such factors may work independently or in combination. Also, real-time application of available knowledge has not been possible till now.
The present Research Topic aims to identify the molecular/genetic factors in conjunction with other environmental influences leading to development of ASD during early childhood. This Topic welcome Original Research, Reviews and other article types focusing on, but not limited to, the following:.
• Role of oral contraceptives as risk factor for stimulating molecular changes before, during or after conception;
• Molecular changes associated with hormonal imbalances (during conditions such as polycystic ovarian disease) as risk factor;
• Molecular factors influenced by gestational diabetes or diabetes before conception;
• Neonatal jaundice, phototherapy and risk of ASD development;
• Passing on of recessive genes through past generations increasing likelihood of ASD;
• Early molecular diagnostic biomarkers of ASD;
• Molecular therapies for ASD.
At present, determining the exact cause of ASD in each diagnosed case is difficult owing to scarce knowledge in the area. There has been evidence highlighting the genetic basis of ASD independent from environmental reasons, however, more rigorous investigations are required to have a concise and comprehensive understanding of all the factors, that may lead to the development of ASD in early childhood. Such factors may work independently or in combination. Also, real-time application of available knowledge has not been possible till now.
The present Research Topic aims to identify the molecular/genetic factors in conjunction with other environmental influences leading to development of ASD during early childhood. This Topic welcome Original Research, Reviews and other article types focusing on, but not limited to, the following:.
• Role of oral contraceptives as risk factor for stimulating molecular changes before, during or after conception;
• Molecular changes associated with hormonal imbalances (during conditions such as polycystic ovarian disease) as risk factor;
• Molecular factors influenced by gestational diabetes or diabetes before conception;
• Neonatal jaundice, phototherapy and risk of ASD development;
• Passing on of recessive genes through past generations increasing likelihood of ASD;
• Early molecular diagnostic biomarkers of ASD;
• Molecular therapies for ASD.
Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Molecular Psychiatry, ASD
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