Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) represents a multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction and communication, combined with restrictive and repetitive behaviors. Despite its high heritability, the isolated examination of genetic factors falls short in fully accounting for the spectrum of ASD clinical presentations or the observed rise in diagnosis rates. The latest estimates from the CDC suggest 1 in 31 children in the United States is affected by ASD, highlighting the urgency of broadening the scope of research to include environmental determinants. Recent investigations have shown compelling associations between early-life exposure to environmental factors—such as air pollutants, endocrine disruptors, and birth complications—and altered autism risk. Despite these findings, the specific mechanisms and causal pathways interlinking genetics and environmental factors remain elusive.

This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of how environmental exposures, either in isolation or synergistically with genetic predispositions, underpin autism spectrum disorder development. By inviting the expertise of multiple disciplines, including toxicology, neuroscience, and data science, this research seeks to illuminate mechanistic pathways, pinpoint crucial exposure periods, and explore gene-environment synergies contributing to ASD onset. These insights are crucial for refining prevention strategies and crafting informed public health policies aimed at ASD mitigation.

To gather further insights into the intersection of genetics and environment in ASD risk, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Epidemiological studies relating prenatal and early-life exposures to ASD propensity

- Mechanistic analyses of how toxins, like air pollutants and pesticides, impact neurodevelopment

- Exposome methodologies and cumulative environmental risk assessments

- Exploration of gene-environment interactions and epigenetic factors in ASD

- Use of experimental models to mimic environmental exposures associated with ASD risk

- Innovations in data integration, machine learning, or computational methodologies to elucidate ASD-environment links

- Sex-specific or demographic vulnerabilities to environmental determinants

- Translational research initiatives focused on prevention, policy planning, or interventions

We advocate for submissions that employ multidisciplinary approaches and national collaborations, like the Autism Data Science Initiative. Eligible article types include Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Methods, Hypothesis & Theory, Perspective, and Opinion articles in alignment with Frontiers in Toxicology.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Decoding environmental influences on autism risk: A multidisciplinary approach