Study Identifies Three Distinct Autism Spectrum Disorder Subtypes
A groundbreaking study, published in the journal Autism Research, has identified three distinct subtypes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on brain patterns. This new understanding could significantly improve diagnosis and treatment of the condition, which affects around 1 in 100 children worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
The research, led by a team at Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, analyzed magnetic resonance images of 225 individuals with ASD and 255 without. By examining gray matter connections, the team identified three subtypes, each related to specific brain regions and their connections.
One subtype, predominantly found in males, showed higher verbal intelligence scores but struggled with communication and social interaction. Another subtype, also more common in males, exhibited different brain connectivity patterns, suggesting a distinct neurological basis. The third subtype, less understood, was identified using an AI algorithm, expanding our understanding of ASD's complexity.
These findings challenge current ASD diagnosis methods, which often overlook brain biology. By considering brain structure and connectivity, we can potentially tailor treatments to each subtype, improving outcomes for individuals with ASD. Future research should address the study's limitation of not considering ASD in women to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition.
