Autism spectrum disorder: neurobiological findings
Keywords:
autism spectrum disorder, neurobiological findings, neurodevelopment, neuropsychology, cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, amygdalaAbstract
Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents a broad clinical heterogeneity that has prompted the study of its neurobiological bases, revealing alterations in neuronal networks, synaptic processes, and genetic mechanisms that affect social cognition, sensory integration, and emotional self-regulation.
Objective: To analyze the main neurobiological findings related to the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, highlighting current evidence on structural and functional alterations in the brain, the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms involved, and future prospects for the development of clinically applicable biomarkers.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted from May to October 2025, through a search of bibliographic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scielo. Descriptors in Spanish and English were used. Results: Autism Spectrum Disorder is associated with atypical brain development, characterized by structural and functional alterations in key regions such as the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum, which impact social, emotional, and cognitive functions from the early stages of development.
Conclusions: Autism Spectrum Disorder includes alterations in growth, neuronal migration, cortical organization, and functional connectivity, affecting structures such as the prefrontal cortex, cerebellum, and amygdala. These changes, along with abnormal microglial activation and the influence of genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors, create a complex neurobiological profile that guides the search for more precise and personalized diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jheissy Teresa Ramos Rúa, Omar Hernández Rivero, Mileny s Cabrera Molina
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february 15, 2026
