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Ross LA, Molholm S, Butler JS, Del Bene VA, Brima T, Foxe JJ. Neural correlates of audiovisual narrative speech perception in children and adults on the autism spectrum: A functional magnetic resonance imaging study. Autism Res 2024; 17:280-310. [PMID: 38334251 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Autistic individuals show substantially reduced benefit from observing visual articulations during audiovisual speech perception, a multisensory integration deficit that is particularly relevant to social communication. This has mostly been studied using simple syllabic or word-level stimuli and it remains unclear how altered lower-level multisensory integration translates to the processing of more complex natural multisensory stimulus environments in autism. Here, functional neuroimaging was used to examine neural correlates of audiovisual gain (AV-gain) in 41 autistic individuals to those of 41 age-matched non-autistic controls when presented with a complex audiovisual narrative. Participants were presented with continuous narration of a story in auditory-alone, visual-alone, and both synchronous and asynchronous audiovisual speech conditions. We hypothesized that previously identified differences in audiovisual speech processing in autism would be characterized by activation differences in brain regions well known to be associated with audiovisual enhancement in neurotypicals. However, our results did not provide evidence for altered processing of auditory alone, visual alone, audiovisual conditions or AV- gain in regions associated with the respective task when comparing activation patterns between groups. Instead, we found that autistic individuals responded with higher activations in mostly frontal regions where the activation to the experimental conditions was below baseline (de-activations) in the control group. These frontal effects were observed in both unisensory and audiovisual conditions, suggesting that these altered activations were not specific to multisensory processing but reflective of more general mechanisms such as an altered disengagement of Default Mode Network processes during the observation of the language stimulus across conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars A Ross
- The Frederick J. and Marion A. Schindler Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Sophie Molholm
- The Frederick J. and Marion A. Schindler Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - John S Butler
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Technological University Dublin, City Campus, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Victor A Del Bene
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
- Heersink School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Tufikameni Brima
- The Frederick J. and Marion A. Schindler Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - John J Foxe
- The Frederick J. and Marion A. Schindler Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine & Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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2
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Dastamooz S, Tham CCY, Yam JCS, Li M, Wong SHS, Sit CHP. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the ocular characteristics in children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19397. [PMID: 37938638 PMCID: PMC10632382 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46206-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ocular characteristics. Systematic review with meta-analysis. Six databases (PubMed, Scopus, APA PsycInfo, Embase, EBSCOhost, and Cochrane library) were selected for a systematic literature search from database inception to July 2022. The observational studies assessing and reporting at least one outcome regarding ocular characteristics in children and adolescents with ADHD or ASD aged 6-17 were included. Studies in languages other than English, studies of adult or elderly human populations, and animal studies were excluded. The results were analyzed following the PRISMA guideline 2020. The findings of 15 studies, including 433 participants with ADHD, 253 participants with ASD, and 514 participants with typical development (TD), revealed that there were no significant differences in retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell complex, and macular thickness between the ADHD group and the TD group. In subgroup analysis, significant differences in inferior ganglion cell (MD = - 3.19; 95% CI = [- 6.06, - 0.31], p = 0.03) and nasal macular thickness (MD = 5.88; 95% CI = [- 0.01, 11.76], p = 0.05) were detected between the ADHD group and the TD group. A significant difference in pupillary light reflex (PLR) was also observed between the ASD group and the TD group (MD = 29.7; 95% CI = [18.79, 40.63], p < 0.001). Existing evidence suggests a possible association between children and adolescents with ADHD or ASD and ocular characteristics. Given the limited number of studies, further research on a larger cohort is necessary to claim a possible diagnosis of ADHD or ASD through ocular characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sima Dastamooz
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Clement C Y Tham
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jason C S Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Minghui Li
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stephen H S Wong
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cindy H P Sit
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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3
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Byrne D, Fisher A, Baker L, Twomey EL, Gorman KM. Yield of brain MRI in children with autism spectrum disorder. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:3603-3609. [PMID: 37227501 PMCID: PMC10460367 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition. The American Academy of Paediatrics and American Academy of Neurology do not recommend routine brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the assessment of ASD. The need for a brain MRI should be decided on atypical features in the clinical history and examination. However, many physicians continue to use brain MRI routinely in the assessment process. We performed a retrospective review of indications for requesting brain MRI in our institution over a 5-year period. The aim was to identify the yield of MRI in children with ASD and calculate the prevalence of significant neuroimaging abnormalities in children with ASD and identify clinical indications for neuroimaging. One hundred eighty-one participants were analysed. An abnormal brain MRI was identified in 7.2% (13/181). Abnormal brain MRI was more likely with an abnormal neurological examination (OR 33.1, p = 0.001) or genetic/metabolic abnormality (OR 20, p = 0.02). In contrast, abnormal MRI was not shown to be more likely in children with a variety of other indications such as behavioural issues and developmental delay. Conclusion: Thus, our findings support that MRI should not be a routine investigation in ASD, without additional findings. The decision to arrange brain MRI should be made on a case-by-case basis following careful evaluation of potential risks and benefits. The impact of any findings on the management course of the child should be considered prior to arranging imaging. What is Known: • Incidental brain MRI findings are common in children with and without ASD. • Many children with ASD undergo brain MRI in the absence of neurological comorbidities. What is New: • Brain MRI abnormalities in ASD are more likely with an abnormal neurological examination and genetic or metabolic conditions. • Prevalence of significant brain MRI abnormalities in ASD alone is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Byrne
- Department of Neurodisability, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - A Fisher
- Department of Neurodisability, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - L Baker
- Department of Neurodisability, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - EL Twomey
- Department of Radiology, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - K M Gorman
- Department of Paediatric Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
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Sotgiu MA, Lo Jacono A, Barisano G, Saderi L, Cavassa V, Montella A, Crivelli P, Carta A, Sotgiu S. Brain perivascular spaces and autism: clinical and pathogenic implications from an innovative volumetric MRI study. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1205489. [PMID: 37425010 PMCID: PMC10328421 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1205489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Our single-center case-control study aimed to evaluate the unclear glymphatic system alteration in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through an innovative neuroimaging tool which allows to segment and quantify perivascular spaces in the white matter (WM-PVS) with filtering of non-structured noise and increase of the contrast-ratio between perivascular spaces and the surrounding parenchyma. Methods Briefly, files of 65 ASD and 71 control patients were studied. We considered: ASD type, diagnosis and severity level and comorbidities (i.e., intellectual disability, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, epilepsy, sleep disturbances). We also examined diagnoses other than ASD and their associated comorbidities in the control group. Results When males and females with ASD are included together, WM-PVS grade and WM-PVS volume do not significantly differ between the ASD group and the control group overall. We found, instead, that WM-PVS volume is significantly associated with male sex: males had higher WM-PVS volume compared to females (p = 0.01). WM-PVS dilation is also non-significantly associated with ASD severity and younger age (< 4 years). In ASD patients, higher WM-PVS volume was related with insomnia whereas no relation was found with epilepsy or IQ. Discussion We concluded that WM-PVS dilation can be a neuroimaging feature of male ASD patients, particularly the youngest and most severe ones, which may rely on male-specific risk factors acting early during neurodevelopment, such as a transient excess of extra-axial CSF volume. Our findings can corroborate the well-known strong male epidemiological preponderance of autism worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Lo Jacono
- Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Barisano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Laura Saderi
- Clinical Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vanna Cavassa
- Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Montella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Crivelli
- Radiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Carta
- Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Stefano Sotgiu
- Unit of Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Li B, Zhao H, Tu Z, Yang W, Han R, Wang L, Luo X, Pan M, Chen X, Zhang J, Xu H, Guo X, Yan S, Yin P, Zhao Z, Liu J, Luo Y, Li Y, Yang Z, Zhang B, Tan Z, Xu H, Jiang T, Jiang YH, Li S, Zhang YQ, Li XJ. CHD8 mutations increase gliogenesis to enlarge brain size in the nonhuman primate. Cell Discov 2023; 9:27. [PMID: 36878905 PMCID: PMC9988832 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-023-00525-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction and behavior. Mutations in the gene encoding chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 8 (CHD8) lead to autism symptoms and macrocephaly by a haploinsufficiency mechanism. However, studies of small animal models showed inconsistent findings about the mechanisms for CHD8 deficiency-mediated autism symptoms and macrocephaly. Using the nonhuman primate as a model system, we found that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated CHD8 mutations in the embryos of cynomolgus monkeys led to increased gliogenesis to cause macrocephaly in cynomolgus monkeys. Disrupting CHD8 in the fetal monkey brain prior to gliogenesis increased the number of glial cells in newborn monkeys. Moreover, knocking down CHD8 via CRISPR/Cas9 in organotypic monkey brain slices from newborn monkeys also enhanced the proliferation of glial cells. Our findings suggest that gliogenesis is critical for brain size in primates and that abnormal gliogenesis may contribute to ASD.
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Grants
- UL1 TR001863 NCATS NIH HHS
- This work was supported by Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province (2021ZT09Y007; 2020B121201006, 2018B030337001, X.J. Li), Guangzhou Key Research Program on Brain Science (202007030008, X.J. Li)the National Science Foundation of China to X.J. Li (81830032, 31872779).
- the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Fund (2019018, B. Li), the Postdoctoral Science Foundation of China (2019M653275, B. Li)
- the National Science Foundation of China to H. Zhao (32100783)
- the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (21619104, L. Wang)
- the Strategic Priority Research Program B of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDBS1020100 to Y.Q. Zhang), the National Key Research and Development Program (2019YFA0707100 and 2021ZD0203901 to Y.Q. Zhang),the National Science Foundation of China to Y.Q. Zhang (31830036 and 31921002).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuchi Tu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Weili Yang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Han
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University & Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaopeng Luo
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingtian Pan
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiusheng Chen
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huijuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Guo
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sen Yan
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Peng Yin
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiguang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianrong Liu
- Yuanxi Biotech Inc., Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yafeng Luo
- Yuanxi Biotech Inc., Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuefeng Li
- Guangdong Landau Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhengyi Yang
- Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baogui Zhang
- Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiqiang Tan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University & Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University & Institute of Molecular and Functional Imaging, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianzi Jiang
- Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Q Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Nabi SU, Rehman MU, Arafah A, Taifa S, Khan IS, Khan A, Rashid S, Jan F, Wani HA, Ahmad SF. Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders by Mitochondrial-targeted Drug: Future of Neurological Diseases Therapeutics. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1042-1064. [PMID: 36411568 PMCID: PMC10286588 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221121095618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex etiology that might involve environmental and genetic variables. Recently, some epidemiological studies conducted in various parts of the world have estimated a significant increase in the prevalence of autism, with 1 in every 59 children having some degree of autism. Since autism has been associated with other clinical abnormalities, there is every possibility that a sub-cellular component may be involved in the progression of autism. The organelle remains a focus based on mitochondria's functionality and metabolic role in cells. Furthermore, the mitochondrial genome is inherited maternally and has its DNA and organelle that remain actively involved during embryonic development; these characteristics have linked mitochondrial dysfunction to autism. Although rapid stride has been made in autism research, there are limited studies that have made particular emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and autism. Accumulating evidence from studies conducted at cellular and sub-cellular levels has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction's role in autism is more than expected. The present review has attempted to describe the risk factors of autism, the role of mitochondria in the progression of the disease, oxidative damage as a trigger point to initiate mitochondrial damage, genetic determinants of the disease, possible pathogenic pathways and therapeutic regimen in vogue and the developmental stage. Furthermore, in the present review, an attempt has been made to include the novel therapeutic regimens under investigation at different clinical trial stages and their potential possibility to emerge as promising drugs against ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Showkat Ul Nabi
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Muneeb U. Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azher Arafah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Taifa
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Iqra Shafi Khan
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Jan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CT University, Ludhiana, Ferozepur Road, Punjab, 142024, India
| | - Hilal Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biochemistry, Government Degree College Sumbal, Bandipora, J&K, India
| | - Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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7
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Li X, Ruan C, Zibrila AI, Musa M, Wu Y, Zhang Z, Liu H, Salimeen M. Children with autism spectrum disorder present glymphatic system dysfunction evidenced by diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e32061. [PMID: 36482590 PMCID: PMC9726346 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) to assess glymphatic system function in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to healthy controls. Patients with ASD may have glymphatic system dysfunction, which is related to age. We retrospectively included 30 children with ASD and 25 healthy controls in this study. 3T magnetic resonance imaging scanner was used to perform DTI magnetic resonance imaging on all participants, and the DTI-ALPS index was calculated from the DTI data. Additionally, we evaluated how the DTI-ALPS index differed between the 2 groups. Moreover, we examined the relationships between the bilateral DTI-ALPS index and the age of the participants. The DTI-ALPS index considerably differed between groups. In the left index (1.02 ± 0.12 vs. 1.27 ± 0.25, P < .001) and in the right index (1.03 ± 0.12 vs. 1.32 ± 0.20, P < .001), the DTI-ALPS in ASD patients was significantly lower than that in healthy controls. Furthermore, the DTI-ALPS index was strongly and positively associated with age. In patients with ASD, there is a glymphatic system dysfunction. This is intimately correlated to age. Our findings suggest the importance of the DTI-ALPS approach in assessing the function of the glymphatic system in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Anaesthesiology, School of Medicine, Yan’an University, Yanan, China
| | - Cailian Ruan
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Yan’an University, Yanan City, China
| | - Abdoulaye Issotina Zibrila
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Mazen Musa
- Department of Orthodontics, Al Tegana Dental Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Science and Technology, Omdurman, Sudan
| | - Yifan Wu
- MD Undergraduate Program, School of Medicine, Yan’an University, Yan’an City, China
| | - Zhengxiang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Yan’an University, Yan’an City, China
| | - Heng Liu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Medical Imaging Center of Guizhou Province, Zunyi City, China
| | - Mustafa Salimeen
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Yan’an University, Yan’an City, China
- Department of Radiology, Dongola Teaching Hospital Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Dongola, Dongola, Republic of Sudan, Dongola, Sudan
- * Correspondence: Mustafa Salimeen, Radiology Department, Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Yana’an University, Yan’an City, China (e-mail: )
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8
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Sachdeva P, Mehdi I, Kaith R, Ahmad F, Anwar MS. Potential natural products for the management of autism spectrum disorder. IBRAIN 2022; 8:365-376. [PMID: 37786737 PMCID: PMC10528773 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism in a broader sense is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which frequently occurs during early childhood and can last for a lifetime. This condition is primarily defined by difficulties with social engagement, with individuals displaying repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. Numerous neuroanatomical investigations on autistic children have revealed that their brains grow atypically, resulting in atypical neurogenesis, neuronal migration, maturation, differentiation, and degeneration. Special education programs, speech therapy, and occupational therapy have all been used to address autism-related behavioral problems. While widely prescribed antidepressant drugs, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and stimulants have demonstrated response in autistic individuals. However, these medications do not fully reverse the core symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The adverse reactions of ASD medicines and an increased risk of developing various other problems, such as obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and thyroid disorders, prompted the researchers to investigate herbal medicines for the treatment of autistic individuals. Clinical trials are now being done to establish the efficacy of alternative techniques based on natural substances and to understand better the context in which they may be used to treat autism. This review of literature will look at crucial natural compounds derived from animals and plants that have shown promise as safe and effective autism treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Punya Sachdeva
- Amity Institute of Neuropsychology and NeurosciencesAmity UniversityNoidaUttar PradeshIndia
| | - Intizaar Mehdi
- School of Studies in NeuroscienceJiwaji UniversityGwaliorMadhya PradeshIndia
| | - Rohit Kaith
- School of Studies in NeuroscienceJiwaji UniversityGwaliorMadhya PradeshIndia
| | - Faizan Ahmad
- Department of Medical Elementology and ToxicologyJamia Hamdard UniversityDelhiIndia
| | - Md Sheeraz Anwar
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of CampaniaLuigi VanvitelliCasertaItaly
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9
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Zhang J, Guan M, Zhou X, Berry K, He X, Lu QR. Long Noncoding RNAs in CNS Myelination and Disease. Neuroscientist 2022; 29:287-301. [PMID: 35373640 DOI: 10.1177/10738584221083919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Myelination by oligodendrocytes is crucial for neuronal survival and function, and defects in myelination or failure in myelin repair can lead to axonal degeneration and various neurological diseases. At present, the factors that promote myelination and overcome the remyelination block in demyelinating diseases are poorly defined. Although the roles of protein-coding genes in oligodendrocyte differentiation have been extensively studied, the majority of the mammalian genome is transcribed into noncoding RNAs, and the functions of these molecules in myelination are poorly characterized. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate transcription at multiple levels, providing spatiotemporal control and robustness for cell type-specific gene expression and physiological functions. lncRNAs have been shown to regulate neural cell-type specification, differentiation, and maintenance of cell identity, and dysregulation of lncRNA function has been shown to contribute to neurological diseases. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the functions of lncRNAs in oligodendrocyte development and myelination as well their roles in neurological diseases and brain tumorigenesis. A more systematic characterization of lncRNA functional networks will be instrumental for a better understanding of CNS myelination, myelin disorders, and myelin repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Laboratory of Nervous System Injuries and Diseases, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children at Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China.,Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Menglong Guan
- Laboratory of Nervous System Injuries and Diseases, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children at Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xianyao Zhou
- Laboratory of Nervous System Injuries and Diseases, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children at Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Kalen Berry
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Xuelian He
- Laboratory of Nervous System Injuries and Diseases, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children at Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Q Richard Lu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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10
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In-depth characterization of neuroradiological findings in a large sample of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and controls. NEUROIMAGE: CLINICAL 2022; 35:103118. [PMID: 35868222 PMCID: PMC9421485 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2022.103118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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11
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Frewer V, Gilchrist CP, Collins SE, Williams K, Seal ML, Leventer RJ, Amor DJ. A systematic review of brain MRI findings in monogenic disorders strongly associated with autism spectrum disorder. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2021; 62:1339-1352. [PMID: 34426966 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on monogenic forms of autism spectrum disorder (autism) can inform our understanding of genetic contributions to the autism phenotype; yet, there is much to be learned about the pathways from gene to brain structure to behavior. This systematic review summarizes and evaluates research on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in monogenic conditions that have strong association with autism. This will improve understanding of the impact of genetic variability on brain structure and related behavioral traits in autism. METHODS The search strategy for this systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Risk of bias (ROB) assessment was completed on included studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scales. RESULTS Of 4,287 studies screened, 69 were included pertaining to 13 of the top 20 genes with the strongest association with autism. The greatest number of studies related to individuals with PTEN variants and autism. Brain MRI abnormalities were reported for 12 of the 13 genes studied, and in 51.7% of participants across all 13 genes, including 100% of participants with ARID1B variants. Specific MRI findings were highly variable, with no clear patterns emerging within or between the 13 genes, although white matter abnormalities were the most common. Few studies reported specific details about methods for acquisition and processing of brain MRI, and descriptors for brain abnormalities were variable. ROB assessment indicated high ROB for all studies, largely due to small sample sizes and lack of comparison groups. CONCLUSIONS Brain abnormalities are common in this population of individuals, in particular, children; however, a range of different brain abnormalities were reported within and between genes. Directions for future neuroimaging research in monogenic autism are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Frewer
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Courtney P Gilchrist
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Neurodevelopment in Health and Disease, RMIT University, Bundoora, Vic., Australia
| | - Simonne E Collins
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,School of Psychological Sciences, Turner Institute for Brain & Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Katrina Williams
- Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Monash Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Marc L Seal
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Richard J Leventer
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - David J Amor
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia.,Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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12
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Rafiee F, Rezvani Habibabadi R, Motaghi M, Yousem DM, Yousem IJ. Brain MRI in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Narrative Review and Recent Advances. J Magn Reson Imaging 2021; 55:1613-1624. [PMID: 34626442 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.27949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is neuropsychiatric continuum of disorders characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and restricted repetitive patterns of behavior which impede optimal functioning. Early detection and intervention in ASD children can mitigate the deficits in social interaction and result in a better outcome. Various non-invasive imaging methods and molecular techniques have been developed for the early identification of ASD characteristics. There is no general consensus on specific neuroimaging features of autism; however, quantitative magnetic resonance techniques have provided valuable structural and functional information in understanding the neuropathophysiology of ASD and how the autistic brain changes during childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. In this review of decades of ASD neuroimaging research, we identify the structural, functional, and molecular imaging clues that most accurately point to the diagnosis of ASD vs. typically developing children. These studies highlight the 1) exaggerated synaptic pruning, 2) anomalous gyrification, 3) interhemispheric under- and overconnectivity, and 4) excitatory glutamate and inhibitory GABA imbalance theories of ASD. The application of these various theories to the analysis of a patient with ASD is mitigated often by superimposed comorbid neuropsychological disorders, evolving brain maturation processes, and pharmacologic and behavioral interventions that may affect the structure and function of the brain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faranak Rafiee
- Department of Radiology, Fara Parto Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology Center, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Roya Rezvani Habibabadi
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mina Motaghi
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA
| | - David M Yousem
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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13
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Ji J, Yao Y. A novel CNN framework to extract multi-level modular features for the classification of brain networks. APPL INTELL 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10489-021-02668-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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14
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Guo X, Wang J, Wang X, Liu W, Yu H, Xu L, Li H, Wu J, Dong M, Tan W, Chen W, Yang Y, Chen Y. Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder in children using conventional MRI and apparent diffusion coefficient based deep learning algorithms. Eur Radiol 2021; 32:761-770. [PMID: 34482428 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-08239-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and validate deep learning (DL) methods for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on conventional MRI (cMRI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) images. METHODS A total of 151 ASD children and 151 age-matched typically developing (TD) controls were included in this study. The data from these subjects were assigned to training and validation datasets. An additional 20 ASD children and 25 TD controls were acquired, whose data were utilized in an independent test set. All subjects underwent cMRI and diffusion-weighted imaging examination of the brain. We developed a series of DL models to separate ASD from TD based on the cMRI and ADC data. The seven models used include five single-sequence models (SSMs), one dominant-sequence model (DSM), and one all-sequence model (ASM). To enhance the feature detection of the models, we embed an attention mechanism module. RESULTS The highest AUC (0.824 ~ 0.850) was achieved when applying the SSM based on either FLAIR or ADC to the validation and independent test sets. A DSM using the combination of FLAIR and ADC showed an improved AUC in the validation (0.873) and independent test sets (0.876). The ASM also showed better diagnostic value in the validation (AUC = 0.838) and independent test sets (AUC = 0.836) compared to the SSMs. Among the models with attention mechanism, the DSM achieved the highest diagnostic performance with an AUC, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.898, 84.4%, 85.0%, and 84.0% respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study established the potential of DL models to distinguish ASD cases from TD controls based on cMRI and ADC images. KEY POINTS • Deep learning models based on conventional MRI and ADC can be used to diagnose ASD. • The model (DSM) based on the FLAIR and ADC sequence achieved the best diagnostic performance with an AUC of 0.836 in the independent test sets. • The attention mechanism further improved the diagnostic performance of the models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Guo
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Jiehuan Wang
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Wang
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- Children Rehabilitation Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Hengyan Li
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | | | | | | | - Weijian Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yunjun Yang
- Department of Medical Imaging, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yueqin Chen
- Department of Radiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China.
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15
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Actionable and incidental neuroradiological findings in twins with neurodevelopmental disorders. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22417. [PMID: 33376247 PMCID: PMC7772336 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79959-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
While previous research has investigated neuroradiological findings in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the entire range of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) has not yet been well-studied using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Considering the overlap among NDDs and simultaneous development of the brain and face, guided by molecular signaling, we examined the relationship of actionable and incidental (non-actionable) MRI findings and NDD diagnoses together with facial morphological variants and genetic copy number variants (CNVs). A cross-sectional study was conducted with a twin cohort 8–36 years of age (57% monozygotic, 40% dizygotic), including 372 subjects (46% with NDDs; 47% female) imaged by MRI, 280 with data for facial morphological variants, and 183 for CNVs. Fifty-one percent of participants had MRI findings. Males had a statistically significantly higher percentage of MRI findings (57.7%) compared with females (43.8%, p = 0.03). Twin zygosity was not statistically significantly correlated with incidence or severity of specific MRI findings. No statistically significant association was found between MRI findings and any NDD diagnosis or facial morphological variants; however, MRI findings were statistically significantly associated with the number of CNVs (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.00–1.44, p = 0.05, adjusted OR for sex 1.24, 95% CI 1.03–1.50, p = 0.02). When combining the presence of MRI findings, facial morphological variants, and CNVs, statistically significant relationships were found with ASD and ADHD diagnoses (p = 0.0006 and p = 0.002, respectively). The results of this study demonstrate that the ability to identify NDDs from combined radiology, morphology, and CNV assessments may be possible. Additionally, twins do not appear to be at increased risk for neuroradiological variants.
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16
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Brain Magnetic Resonance Findings in 117 Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder under 5 Years Old. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10100741. [PMID: 33081247 PMCID: PMC7602717 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10100741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the potential benefits of neuroimaging measurements across the first 5 years of life in detecting early comorbid or etiological signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In particular, we analyzed the prevalence of neuroradiologic findings in routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of a group of 117 ASD children younger than 5 years old. These data were compared to those reported in typically developing (TD) children. MRI findings in children with ASD were analyzed in relation to their cognitive level, severity of autistic symptoms, and the presence of electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities. The MRI was rated abnormal in 55% of children with ASD with a significant prevalence in the high-functioning subgroup compared to TD children. We report significant incidental findings of mega cisterna magna, ventricular anomalies and abnormal white matter signal intensity in ASD without significant associations between these MRI findings and EEG features. Based on these results we discuss the role that brain MRI may play in the diagnostic procedure of ASD.
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17
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Fregeac J, Moriceau S, Poli A, Nguyen LS, Oury F, Colleaux L. Loss of the neurodevelopmental disease-associated gene miR-146a impairs neural progenitor differentiation and causes learning and memory deficits. Mol Autism 2020; 11:22. [PMID: 32228681 PMCID: PMC7106595 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00328-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formation and maintenance of appropriate neural networks require tight regulation of neural stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and neurogenesis. microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in brain development and plasticity, and dysregulated miRNA profiles have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders including autism, schizophrenia, or intellectual disability. Yet, the functional role of miRNAs in neural development and postnatal brain functions remains unclear. METHODS Using a combination of cell biology techniques as well as behavioral studies and brain imaging, we characterize mouse models with either constitutive inactivation or selectively hippocampal knockdown of the neurodevelopmental disease-associated gene Mir146a, the most commonly deregulated miRNA in developmental brain disorders (DBD). RESULTS We first show that during development, loss of miR-146a impairs the differentiation of radial glial cells, neurogenesis process, and neurite extension. In the mouse adult brain, loss of miR-146a correlates with an increased hippocampal asymmetry coupled with defects in spatial learning and memory performances. Moreover, selective hippocampal downregulation of miR-146a in adult mice causes severe hippocampal-dependent memory impairments indicating for the first time a role for this miRNA in postnatal brain functions. CONCLUSION Our results show that miR-146a expression is critical for correct differentiation of neural stem cell during brain development and provide for the first time a strong argument for a postnatal role of miR-146a in regulating hippocampal-dependent memory. Furthermore, the demonstration that the Mir146a-/- mouse recapitulates several aspects reported in DBD patients, including impaired neurogenesis, abnormal brain anatomy, and working and spatial memories deficits, provides convincing evidence that the dysregulation of miR146a contributes to the pathogenesis of DBDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Fregeac
- Developmental Brain Disorder Laboratory, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Moriceau
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Institut Necker Enfants Malades (INEM), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1151, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Antoine Poli
- Developmental Brain Disorder Laboratory, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Lam Son Nguyen
- Developmental Brain Disorder Laboratory, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Franck Oury
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Institut Necker Enfants Malades (INEM), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1151, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Laurence Colleaux
- Developmental Brain Disorder Laboratory, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
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18
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Barone R, Gulisano M, Amore R, Domini C, Milana MC, Giglio S, Madia F, Mattina T, Casabona A, Fichera M, Rizzo R. Clinical correlates in children with autism spectrum disorder and CNVs: Systematic investigation in a clinical setting. Int J Dev Neurosci 2020; 80:276-286. [PMID: 32159884 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with various molecular mechanisms including copy number variants (CNVs). We investigated possible associations between CNVs and ASD clinical correlates. We evaluated pertinent physical characteristics and phenotypic measures such as cognitive level, severity of ASD symptoms and comorbid conditions in ASD patients consecutively recruited over the study period. Children with causative (C-CNVs), non-causative (NC-CNVs) and without CNVs (W-CNVs) were compared. Out of 109 patients, 31 imbalances (16 duplications and 15 deletions) were detected in 25 subjects. Seven (6.4%) had C-CNVs and 18 (16.5%) had NC-CNVs. Paired post hoc comparisons with Bonferroni adjustment showed that dysmorphisms and microcephaly were significantly more frequent in the C-CNVs group. Patients with C-CNVs had more severe autistic core symptoms, while comorbid internalizing behavioral symptoms were more represented among participants with NC-CNVs. No significant differences were observed for distribution of macrocephaly, intellectual disability, epilepsy, isolated electroencephalogram abnormalities and studied neuroimaging characteristics among groups. Recurrent and rare C-CNVs highlighting genes relevant to neurodevelopment had a statistically higher occurrence in children with more severe ASD symptoms and further developmental abnormalities. This study documents the importance of measuring the physical and neurobehavioural correlates of ASD phenotypes to unravel the underlying molecular mechanisms in patient subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Barone
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- CNR-Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials IPCB, Catania, Italy
| | - Mariangela Gulisano
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Renata Amore
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carla Domini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Milana
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sabrina Giglio
- Medical Genetics Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital, University of Florence, Firenze, Italy
| | - Francesca Madia
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Teresa Mattina
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Medical Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Casabona
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Fichera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Medical Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Renata Rizzo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Samia P, Kanana M, King J, Donald KA, Newton CR, Denckla C. Childhood autism spectrum disorder: insights from a tertiary hospital cohort in Kenya. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES 2020; 33:12-21. [PMID: 33343175 PMCID: PMC7746135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in behavior, social communication, and interaction. There is little data on ASD from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) describing clinical characteristics in large cohorts of patients. Preliminary studies report a high male sex ratio, excess of nonverbal cases, possible infectious etiologies, and comorbidities e.g. epilepsy. OBJECTIVE To describe the clinical characteristics of children diagnosed with ASD in an African context. METHODS A retrospective medical chart review identified 116 children diagnosed with ASD according to DSM-5 criteria at a pediatric neurology clinic in Nairobi, Kenya. RESULTS The male to female ratio was 4.3:1. The median age at presentation was 3 years with speech delay as the most common reason for presentation. Expressive language delay was observed in 90% of the population. Sixty percent who obtained imaging had normal MRI brain findings. Only 44% and 34% of children had access to speech therapy and occupational therapy respectively. Epilepsy and ADHD were the most prevalent comorbidities. CONCLUSION An early median age at presentation and preponderance of male gender is observed. Access to speech therapy and other interventions was low. A prospective study would help determine outcomes for similar children following appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Samia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maureen Kanana
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Julie King
- School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten A Donald
- Division of Developmental Paediatrics, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Christy Denckla
- School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Berry K, Wang J, Lu QR. Epigenetic regulation of oligodendrocyte myelination in developmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. F1000Res 2020; 9:F1000 Faculty Rev-105. [PMID: 32089836 PMCID: PMC7014579 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.20904.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes are the critical cell types giving rise to the myelin nerve sheath enabling efficient nerve transmission in the central nervous system (CNS). Oligodendrocyte precursor cells differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes and are maintained throughout life. Deficits in the generation, proliferation, or differentiation of these cells or their maintenance have been linked to neurological disorders ranging from developmental disorders to neurodegenerative diseases and limit repair after CNS injury. Understanding the regulation of these processes is critical for achieving proper myelination during development, preventing disease, or recovering from injury. Many of the key factors underlying these processes are epigenetic regulators that enable the fine tuning or reprogramming of gene expression during development and regeneration in response to changes in the local microenvironment. These include chromatin remodelers, histone-modifying enzymes, covalent modifiers of DNA methylation, and RNA modification-mediated mechanisms. In this review, we will discuss the key components in each of these classes which are responsible for generating and maintaining oligodendrocyte myelination as well as potential targeted approaches to stimulate the regenerative program in developmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalen Berry
- Department of Pediatrics, Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Jiajia Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Q. Richard Lu
- Department of Pediatrics, Brain Tumor Center, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
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21
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Al-Dewik N, Al-Jurf R, Styles M, Tahtamouni S, Alsharshani D, Alsharshani M, Ahmad AI, Khattab A, Al Rifai H, Walid Qoronfleh M. Overview and Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:3-42. [PMID: 32006355 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder generally manifesting in the first few years of life and tending to persist into adolescence and adulthood. It is characterized by deficits in communication and social interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. It is a disorder with multifactorial etiology. In this chapter, we will focus on the most important and common epidemiological studies, pathogenesis, screening, and diagnostic tools along with an explication of genetic testing in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Al-Dewik
- Clinical and Metabolic Genetics Section, Pediatrics Department, Hamad General Hospital (HGH), Women's Wellness and Research Center (WWRC) and Interim Translational Research Institute (iTRI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar. .,College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar. .,Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences, Kingston University, St. George's University of London, London, UK.
| | - Rana Al-Jurf
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Science, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Meghan Styles
- Health Profession Awareness Program, Health Facilities Development, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Sona Tahtamouni
- Child Development Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dalal Alsharshani
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammed Alsharshani
- Diagnostic Genetics Division (DGD), Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Amal I Ahmad
- Qatar Rehabilitation Institute (QRI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Azhar Khattab
- Qatar Rehabilitation Institute (QRI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Hilal Al Rifai
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Newborn Screening Unit, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - M Walid Qoronfleh
- Research and Policy Department, World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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22
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Munnich A, Demily C, Frugère L, Duwime C, Malan V, Barcia G, Vidal C, Throo É, Besmond C, Hubert L, Roland-Manuel G, Malen JP, Ferreri M, Hanein S, Boddaert N, Assouline M. [Twenty years of on-site clinical genetics consultations for people with ASD]. Med Sci (Paris) 2019; 35:843-851. [PMID: 31845875 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2019170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in neurogenetics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), many patients fail to be systematically investigated, owing to preconceived ideas, limited access to genetics facilities and inadequacy of consultations to children with behavioural problems. To improve access to services, we reversed the paradigm and delivered on-site genetics consultations to ASD children of Greater Paris day care hospitals and specialized institutions. Since 1998, an ambulatory medical genetics team has been in operation, offering on-site consultations and services to patients and relatives in their usual environment. Because the mobile medical genetics unit operates under the umbrella of a university hospital, service laboratories were shared, including molecular cytogenetics and next generation sequencing (NGS). For the past 20 years, 502 patients from 26 institutions benefited from on-site consultations and genetics services in their usual environment. Less than 1 % of parents declined the offer. Previously undiagnosed genetics conditions were recognized in 71 ASD children, including pathogenic CNV variants (34/388 : 8.8 ; de novo : 19, inherited : 4), Fragile X (4/312 : 1.3 %) and deleterious variants in disease causing genes (33/141 ; 23.4 % : de novo : 23 ; inherited : 10, including 5 X-linked and 5 compound heterozygote mutations). Brain MRI were possible in 347 patients and 42 % were considered abnormal (146/347). All diagnosed patients presented atypical/syndromic ASD with moderate to severe intellectual disability. Thanks to such flexible organisation, a considerable number of missed consultations were tracked and families first benefited from medical genetics services. Owing to constraints imposed by behavioural problems in ASD, we suggest considering on-site genetics services to implement standard of care and counteract the loss of chance to patients and relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold Munnich
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Caroline Demily
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Lisa Frugère
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Charlyne Duwime
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Valérie Malan
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Giulia Barcia
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Céline Vidal
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Émeline Throo
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Claude Besmond
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Laurence Hubert
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gilles Roland-Manuel
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Malen
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Mélanie Ferreri
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Sylvain Hanein
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Boddaert
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Moise Assouline
- Fédération de Génétique Médicale et Institute Imagine, UMR Inserm 1163, Université Paris-Descartes, Hôpital Necker Enfants-Malades et Fondation Elan Retrouvé, 149 rue de Sèvres, 75015 Paris, France
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Smith A, Storti S, Lukose R, Kulesza RJ. Structural and Functional Aberrations of the Auditory Brainstem in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Osteopath Med 2019; 119:41-50. [PMID: 30615041 DOI: 10.7556/jaoa.2019.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition associated with difficulties in the social, communicative, and behavioral domains. Most cases of ASD arise from an unknown etiologic process, but there are numerous risk factors, including comorbidities and maternal exposures. Although it is not part of the diagnostic criteria, hearing difficulties ranging from deafness to hyperacusis are present in the majority of persons with ASD. High-functioning children with ASD have been found to have significantly slower and asymmetric auditory brainstem reflexes. Additionally, histopathological studies of postmortem brainstems in decedents who had ASD have consistently revealed significantly fewer neurons in auditory nuclei compared with those in people who did not have ASD. The authors review the literature implicating auditory dysfunction in ASD along with results from human study participants and postmortem human brain tissue. Together, these results implicate significant structural and functional abnormalities in the auditory brainstem in ASD and support the utility of auditory testing to screen for ASD.
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24
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Hong SJ, Valk SL, Di Martino A, Milham MP, Bernhardt BC. Multidimensional Neuroanatomical Subtyping of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Cereb Cortex 2019; 28:3578-3588. [PMID: 28968847 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhx229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders with multiple biological etiologies and highly variable symptoms. Using a novel analytical framework that integrates cortex-wide MRI markers of vertical (i.e., thickness, tissue contrast) and horizontal (i.e., surface area, geodesic distance) cortical organization, we could show that a large multi-centric cohort of individuals with ASD falls into 3 distinctive anatomical subtypes (ASD-I: cortical thickening, increased surface area, tissue blurring; ASD-II: cortical thinning, decreased distance; ASD-III: increased distance). Bootstrap analysis indicated a high consistency of these biotypes across thousands of simulations, while analysis of behavioral phenotypes and resting-state fMRI showed differential symptom load (i.e., Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule; ADOS) and instrinsic connectivity anomalies in communication and social-cognition networks. Notably, subtyping improved supervised learning approaches predicting ADOS score in single subjects, with significantly increased performance compared to a subtype-blind approach. The existence of different subtypes may reconcile previous results so far not converging on a consistent pattern of anatomical anomalies in autism, and possibly relate the presence of diverging corticogenic and maturational anomalies. The high accuracy for symptom severity prediction indicates benefits of MRI biotyping for personalized diagnostics and may guide the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok-Jun Hong
- Multimodal Imaging and Connectome Analysis Laboratory, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sofie L Valk
- Department of Social Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Stephanstrasse 1a, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Adriana Di Martino
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Child Study Center at NYU Langone Health, 1 Park Avenue, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael P Milham
- Center for the Developing Brain, Child Mind Institute, 445 Park Avenue, New York, NY, USA.,Center for Biomedical Imaging and Neuromodulation, Nathan Kline Institute, 140 Old Orangeburg Rd, Orangeburg, New York, NY, USA
| | - Boris C Bernhardt
- Multimodal Imaging and Connectome Analysis Laboratory, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC, Canada
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25
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Farooq H, Chen Y, Georgiou TT, Tannenbaum A, Lenglet C. Network curvature as a hallmark of brain structural connectivity. Nat Commun 2019; 10:4937. [PMID: 31666510 PMCID: PMC6821808 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12915-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although brain functionality is often remarkably robust to lesions and other insults, it may be fragile when these take place in specific locations. Previous attempts to quantify robustness and fragility sought to understand how the functional connectivity of brain networks is affected by structural changes, using either model-based predictions or empirical studies of the effects of lesions. We advance a geometric viewpoint relying on a notion of network curvature, the so-called Ollivier-Ricci curvature. This approach has been proposed to assess financial market robustness and to differentiate biological networks of cancer cells from healthy ones. Here, we apply curvature-based measures to brain structural networks to identify robust and fragile brain regions in healthy subjects. We show that curvature can also be used to track changes in brain connectivity related to age and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and we obtain results that are in agreement with previous MRI studies. The brain can often continue to function despite lesions in many areas, but damage to particular locations may have serious effects. Here, the authors use the concept of Ollivier-Ricci curvature to investigate the robustness of brain networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Farooq
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Yongxin Chen
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tryphon T Georgiou
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Allen Tannenbaum
- Departments of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics & Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Christophe Lenglet
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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26
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Impact of on-site clinical genetics consultations on diagnostic rate in children and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Mol Autism 2019; 10:33. [PMID: 31406558 PMCID: PMC6686526 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-019-0284-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neurogenetics investigations and diagnostic yield in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have significantly improved over the last few years. Yet, many patients still fail to be systematically investigated. Methods To improve access to services, an ambulatory team has been established since 1998, delivering on-site clinical genetics consultations and gradually upgrading services to 502 children and young adults with ASD in their standard environment across 26 day-care hospitals and specialized institutions within the Greater Paris region. The evaluation included a clinical genetics consultation, screening for fragile X syndrome, metabolic workup, chromosomal microarray analysis, and, in a proportion of patients, next-generation sequencing of genes reported in ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Results Fragile X syndrome and pathogenic copy number variants (CNVs) accounted for the disease in 10% of cases, including 4/312 (1.3%) with fragile X syndrome and 34/388 (8.8%) with pathogenic CNVs (19 de novo and 4 inherited). Importantly, adding high-throughput resequencing of reported intellectual disability/ASD genes to the screening procedure had a major impact on diagnostic yield in the 141 patients examined most recently. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic sequence variants in 27 disease genes were identified in 33/141 patients (23.4%; 23 were de novo and 10 inherited, including five X-linked and five recessive compound heterozygous variants). Diagnosed cases presented atypical and/or syndromic ASD with moderate to severe intellectual disability. The diagnostic yield of fragile X syndrome and array CGH testing combined with next-generation sequencing was significantly higher than fragile X syndrome and array CGH alone (p value 0.009). No inborn errors of metabolism were detected with the metabolic screening. Conclusion Based on the diagnostic rate observed in this cohort, we suggest that a stepwise procedure be considered, first screening pathogenic CNVs and a limited number of disease genes in a much larger number of patients, especially those with syndromic ASD and intellectual disability. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13229-019-0284-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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27
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Liu Y, Zhang X, Feng N, Yin L, He Y, Xu X, Lu H. The effect of glioblastoma heterogeneity on survival stratification: a multimodal MR imaging texture analysis. Acta Radiol 2018; 59:1239-1246. [PMID: 29430935 DOI: 10.1177/0284185118756951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Quantitative evaluation of the effect of glioblastoma (GBM) heterogeneity on survival stratification would be critical for the diagnosis, treatment decision, and follow-up management. Purpose To evaluate the effect of GBM heterogeneity on survival stratification, using texture analysis on multimodal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Material and Methods A total of 119 GBM patients (65 in long-term and 54 in short-term survival group, separated by overall survival of 12 months) were selected from the Cancer Genome Atlas, who underwent the T1-weighted (T1W) contrast-enhanced (CE), T1W, T2-weighted (T2W), and FLAIR sequences. For each sequence, the co-occurrence matrix, run-length matrix, and histogram features were extracted to reflect GBM heterogeneity on different scale. The recursive feature elimination based support vector machine was adopted to find an optimal subset. Then the stratification performance of four MR sequences was evaluated, both alone and in combination. Results When each sequence used alone, the T1W-CE sequence performed best, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.7915, 80.67%, 78.45%, and 83.33%, respectively. When the four sequences combined, the stratification performance was basically equal to that of T1W-CE sequence. In the optimal subset of features extracted from multimodality, those from the T2W sequence weighted the most. Conclusion All the four sequences could reflect heterogeneous distribution of GBM and thereby affect the survival stratification, especially T1W-CE and T2W sequences. However, the stratification performance using only the T1W-CE sequence can be preserved with omission of other three sequences, when investigating the effect of GBM heterogeneity on survival stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Xi Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Na Feng
- Department of Physiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Lulu Yin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Yalong He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Xiaopan Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Hongbing Lu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, PR China
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28
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Evaluating Functional Connectivity Alterations in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Network-Based Statistics. Diagnostics (Basel) 2018; 8:diagnostics8030051. [PMID: 30087299 PMCID: PMC6164656 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics8030051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of resting-state functional brain networks is a powerful tool to understand the neurological bases of a variety of disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this work, we have studied the differences in functional brain connectivity between a group of 74 ASD subjects and a group of 82 typical-development (TD) subjects using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). We have used a network approach whereby the brain is divided into discrete regions or nodes that interact with each other through connections or edges. Functional brain networks were estimated using the Pearson’s correlation coefficient and compared by means of the Network-Based Statistic (NBS) method. The obtained results reveal a combination of both overconnectivity and underconnectivity, with the presence of networks in which the connectivity levels differ significantly between ASD and TD groups. The alterations mainly affect the temporal and frontal lobe, as well as the limbic system, especially those regions related with social interaction and emotion management functions. These results are concordant with the clinical profile of the disorder and can contribute to the elucidation of its neurological basis, encouraging the development of new clinical approaches.
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Dual Requirement of CHD8 for Chromatin Landscape Establishment and Histone Methyltransferase Recruitment to Promote CNS Myelination and Repair. Dev Cell 2018; 45:753-768.e8. [PMID: 29920279 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2018.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Disruptive mutations in chromatin remodeler CHD8 cause autism spectrum disorders, exhibiting widespread white matter abnormalities; however, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We show that cell-type specific Chd8 deletion in oligodendrocyte progenitors, but not in neurons, results in myelination defects, revealing a cell-intrinsic dependence on CHD8 for oligodendrocyte lineage development, myelination and post-injury remyelination. CHD8 activates expression of BRG1-associated SWI/SNF complexes that in turn activate CHD7, thus initiating a successive chromatin remodeling cascade that orchestrates oligodendrocyte lineage progression. Genomic occupancy analyses reveal that CHD8 establishes an accessible chromatin landscape, and recruits MLL/KMT2 histone methyltransferase complexes distinctively around proximal promoters to promote oligodendrocyte differentiation. Inhibition of histone demethylase activity partially rescues myelination defects of CHD8-deficient mutants. Our data indicate that CHD8 exhibits a dual function through inducing a cascade of chromatin reprogramming and recruiting H3K4 histone methyltransferases to establish oligodendrocyte identity, suggesting potential strategies of therapeutic intervention for CHD8-associated white matter defects.
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30
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Al-Otaish H, Al-Ayadhi L, Bjørklund G, Chirumbolo S, Urbina MA, El-Ansary A. Relationship between absolute and relative ratios of glutamate, glutamine and GABA and severity of autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis 2018; 33:843-854. [PMID: 29397522 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-018-0186-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental pathology characterized by an impairment in social interaction, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors. Glutamate signaling abnormalities are thought to be considered as major etiological mechanisms leading to ASD. The search for amino-acidic catabolytes related to glutamate in patients with different levels of ASD might help current research to clarify the mechanisms underlying glutamate signaling and its disorders, particularly in relation to ASD. In the present study, plasma levels of the amino acids and their derivatives glutamate, glutamine, and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), associated with their relative ratios, were evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique in 40 male children with ASD and in 38 age- and gender-matched neurotypical health controls. The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) was used to evaluate social cognition, and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) was used to assess subjects' behaviors. Children with ASD exhibited a significant elevation of plasma GABA and glutamate/glutamine ratio, as well as significantly lower levels of plasma glutamine and glutamate/GABA ratios compared to controls. No significant correlation was found between glutamate levels and the severity of autism, measured by CARS and SRS. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the area under the curve for GABA compared to other parameters was close to one, indicating its potential use as a biomarker. Glutamine appeared as the best predictive prognostic markers in the present study. The results of the present study indicate a disturbed balance between GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission in ASD. The study also indicates that an increased plasma level of GABA can be potentially used as an early diagnostic biomarker for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanoof Al-Otaish
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Shaik AL-Amodi Autism Research Chair, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Toften 24, 8610, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Shaik AL-Amodi Autism Research Chair, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Central Laboratory, Female Center for Medical Studies and Scientific Section, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Medicinal Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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31
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Gregath A, Lu QR. Epigenetic modifications-insight into oligodendrocyte lineage progression, regeneration, and disease. FEBS Lett 2018; 592:1063-1078. [PMID: 29427507 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Myelination by oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system permits high-fidelity saltatory conduction from neuronal cell bodies to axon terminals. Dysmyelinating and demyelinating disorders impair normal nervous system functions. Consequently, an understanding of oligodendrocyte differentiation that moves beyond the genetic code into the field of epigenetics is essential. Chromatin reprogramming is critical for steering stage-specific differentiation processes during oligodendrocyte development. Fine temporal control of chromatin remodeling through ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers and sequential histone modifiers shapes a chromatin regulatory landscape conducive to oligodendrocyte fate specification, lineage differentiation, and maintenance of cell identity. In this Review, we will focus on the biological functions of ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers and histone deacetylases in myelinating oligodendrocyte development and implications for myelin regeneration in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Gregath
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, OH, USA
| | - Qing Richard Lu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Brain Tumor Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, OH, USA
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32
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Rollins NK. An Imaging Glimpse into the Autistic Brain. Radiology 2018; 286:227-228. [DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2017172092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy K. Rollins
- From the Department of Radiology, Children’s Health System Texas and the University of Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, 1935 Medical District Dr, Dallas, TX 75235
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33
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Beyer MK, Dalaker TO, Greve OJ, Pignatiello SE, Agartz I. A population study of Norwegian psychiatric patients referred for clinical brain scanning. BJPsych Open 2018; 4:149-156. [PMID: 29922480 PMCID: PMC6003253 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2018.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with psychiatric conditions are often referred for a brain scan during the course of their diagnostic workup. AIMS The aim of our study is to determine frequency and type of organic brain pathology, the relationship to age, gender and psychiatric diagnosis. METHOD We investigated magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography brain scans from consecutively referred patients over a 10-year period (January 2002-December 2011). The reasons for referral, estimated psychiatric diagnosis, and the pathology discovered for each patient were registered. RESULTS A total of 34% of patients demonstrated organic brain pathology, of which 32.8% were considered clinically relevant. This represents a higher frequency of relevant pathology than reported in healthy subjects. Age (P < 0.001) and diagnosis (P = 0.016) were the most important determinants for frequency of pathological findings. CONCLUSIONS Brain imaging in clinical psychiatry resulted in approximately 30% positive findings mainly associated with increasing pathologies with age, but also with diagnosis. DECLARATION OF INTEREST Both T.O.D. and M.K.B. have received honorary from Novartis for scientific lectures about multiple sclerosis. M.K.B. also received honoraria from Biogen for scientific lectures. The other authors have no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona K Beyer
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Norway and Department of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences, Norway
| | - Turi O Dalaker
- Department of Radiology, Stavanger University Hospital, Norway
| | - Ole J Greve
- Department of Radiology, Stavanger University Hospital, Norway
| | | | - Ingrid Agartz
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research and K.G. Jebsen Centre for Psychosis Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway and Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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34
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Zhang J, Gao Y, Park SH, Zong X, Lin W, Shen D. Structured Learning for 3-D Perivascular Space Segmentation Using Vascular Features. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2017; 64:2803-2812. [PMID: 28362579 PMCID: PMC5749233 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2016.2638918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this paper is to automatically segment perivascular spaces (PVSs) in brain from high-resolution 7T magnetic resonance (MR) images. METHODS We propose a structured-learning-based segmentation framework to extract the PVSs from high-resolution 7T MR images. Specifically, we integrate three types of vascular filter responses into a structured random forest for classifying voxels into two categories, i.e., PVS and background. In addition, we propose a novel entropy-based sampling strategy to extract informative samples in the background for training an explicit classification model. Since the vascular filters can extract various vascular features, even thin and low-contrast structures can be effectively extracted from noisy backgrounds. Moreover, continuous and smooth segmentation results can be obtained by utilizing patch-based structured labels. RESULTS The performance of our proposed method is evaluated on 19 subjects with 7T MR images, with the Dice similarity coefficient reaching 66%. CONCLUSION The joint use of entropy-based sampling strategy, vascular features, and structured learning can improve the segmentation accuracy. SIGNIFICANCE Instead of manual annotation, our method provides an automatic way for PVS segmentation. Moreover, our method can be potentially used for other vascular structure segmentation because of its data-driven property.
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Bonnet-Brilhault F. [Autism: An early neurodevelopmental disorder]. Arch Pediatr 2017; 24:384-390. [PMID: 28256376 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcped.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
With approximately 67 million individuals affected worldwide, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the fastest growing neurodevelopmental disorder (United Nations, 2011), with a prevalence estimated to be 1/100. In France ASD affects approximately 600,000 individuals (from childhood to adulthood, half of whom are also mentally retarded), who thus have a major handicap in communication and in adapting to daily life, which leads autism to be recognized as a national public health priority. ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects several domains (i.e., socio-emotional, language, sensori-motor, executive functioning). These disorders are expressed early in life with an age of onset around 18 months. Despite evidence suggesting a strong genetic link with ASD, the genetic determinant remains unclear. The clinical picture is characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication and the presence of restrictive and repetitive behaviors (DSM-5, ICD-10). However, in addition to these two main dimensions there is significant comorbidity between ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or with genetic and medical conditions. One of the diagnostic features of ASD is its early emergence: symptoms must begin in early childhood for a diagnosis to be given. Due to brain plasticity, early interventions are essential to facilitate clinical improvement. Therefore, general practitioners and pediatricians are on the front line to detect early signs of ASD and to guide both medical explorations and early rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Bonnet-Brilhault
- UMR Inserm U930, équipe autisme, centre universitaire de pédopsychiatrie, hôpital Bretonneau, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours cedex 09, France.
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Monterrey JC, Philips J, Cleveland S, Tanaka S, Barnes P, Hallmayer JF, Reiss AL, Lazzeroni LC, Hardan AY. Incidental brain MRI findings in an autism twin study. Autism Res 2017; 10:113-120. [PMID: 27874265 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies suggest the prevalence of asymptomatic "incidental" findings (IF) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is similar to that of neurotypically developing (NT) controls. However, given the causes of IF may include both genetic and environmental factors, a twin study would facilitate comparing brain IF between ASD and NT subjects. MRI scans were examined to assess the prevalence of brain IF in twin "case pairs" (at least one twin with diagnosis of ASD) and twin "control pairs" (NT). Fifty case pairs and thirty-two control pairs were analyzed. IF were found in 68% of subjects with ASD, 71% of unaffected ASD siblings, and in 58% of control subjects (P = 0.4). IF requiring clinical follow-up occurred more frequently in subjects with ASD compared to NT controls (17% vs. 5%, respectively; P = 0.02). The concordance rate of IF in twins was 83%. A mixed effects model found younger age, male sex, and "family environment" to be significantly associated with IF. There was no difference in the prevalence rate of IF between ASD subjects and NT controls. More IF required clinical follow-up in ASD subjects compared to NT controls. The prevalence rate of IF observed in this twin study was higher than rates previously reported in singleton studies. Our results suggest the shared environment of twins - perhaps in utero - increases the risk of brain IF. Brain MRI in the initial work-up of ASD may be indicated in twins, especially in males. Autism Res 2017, 10: 113-120. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio C Monterrey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jennifer Philips
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Sue Cleveland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Serena Tanaka
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Patrick Barnes
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Joachim F Hallmayer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Alan L Reiss
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Laura C Lazzeroni
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Antonio Y Hardan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Niculae AŞ, Pavăl D. From molecules to behavior: An integrative theory of autism spectrum disorder. Med Hypotheses 2016; 97:74-84. [PMID: 27876135 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2016.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a group of neurodevelopmental disorders for which various theories have been proposed. Each theory brings valuable insights and has experimental evidence backing it, yet none provides an overarching explanation for each of the pathological aspects involved in ASD. Here we present an integrative theory of ASD, centered on a sequence of events spanning from the molecular to the behavioral level. We propose that an abnormality in the interplay between retinoic acid and sex hormones predisposes an individual to specific molecular malfunctions. In turn, this molecular syndrome generates an altered brain connectivity between the cerebellum, the midbrain dopaminergic areas, and the prefrontal cortex. Lastly, this disconnection would generate specific behavioral traits traditionally involved in ASD. Therefore, this paper represents a step forward in unifying different levels of pathological features into novel integrated testable hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru-Ştefan Niculae
- The Department of Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, 'Iuliu Hațieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Louis Pasteur, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Denis Pavăl
- The Department of Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, 'Iuliu Hațieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Louis Pasteur, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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Berthier ML, Roé-Vellvé N, Moreno-Torres I, Falcon C, Thurnhofer-Hemsi K, Paredes-Pacheco J, Torres-Prioris MJ, De-Torres I, Alfaro F, Gutiérrez-Cardo AL, Baquero M, Ruiz-Cruces R, Dávila G. Mild Developmental Foreign Accent Syndrome and Psychiatric Comorbidity: Altered White Matter Integrity in Speech and Emotion Regulation Networks. Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:399. [PMID: 27555813 PMCID: PMC4977429 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Foreign accent syndrome (FAS) is a speech disorder that is defined by the emergence of a peculiar manner of articulation and intonation which is perceived as foreign. In most cases of acquired FAS (AFAS) the new accent is secondary to small focal lesions involving components of the bilaterally distributed neural network for speech production. In the past few years FAS has also been described in different psychiatric conditions (conversion disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia) as well as in developmental disorders (specific language impairment, apraxia of speech). In the present study, two adult males, one with atypical phonetic production and the other one with cluttering, reported having developmental FAS (DFAS) since their adolescence. Perceptual analysis by naïve judges could not confirm the presence of foreign accent, possibly due to the mildness of the speech disorder. However, detailed linguistic analysis provided evidence of prosodic and segmental errors previously reported in AFAS cases. Cognitive testing showed reduced communication in activities of daily living and mild deficits related to psychiatric disorders. Psychiatric evaluation revealed long-lasting internalizing disorders (neuroticism, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social phobia, depression, alexithymia, hopelessness, and apathy) in both subjects. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data from each subject with DFAS were compared with data from a group of 21 age- and gender-matched healthy control subjects. Diffusion parameters (MD, AD, and RD) in predefined regions of interest showed changes of white matter microstructure in regions previously related with AFAS and psychiatric disorders. In conclusion, the present findings militate against the possibility that these two subjects have FAS of psychogenic origin. Rather, our findings provide evidence that mild DFAS occurring in the context of subtle, yet persistent, developmental speech disorders may be associated with structural brain anomalies. We suggest that the simultaneous involvement of speech and emotion regulation networks might result from disrupted neural organization during development, or compensatory or maladaptive plasticity. Future studies are required to examine whether the interplay between biological trait-like diathesis (shyness, neuroticism) and the stressful experience of living with mild DFAS lead to the development of internalizing psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo L Berthier
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit and Cathedra ARPA of Aphasia, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of Malaga Malaga, Spain
| | - Núria Roé-Vellvé
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga Malaga, Spain
| | | | - Carles Falcon
- Barcelonabeta Brain Research Center, Pasqual Maragall Foundation Barcelona, Spain
| | - Karl Thurnhofer-Hemsi
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of MalagaMalaga, Spain; Department of Applied Mathematics, Superior Technical School of Engineering in Informatics, University of MalagaMalaga, Spain
| | - José Paredes-Pacheco
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of MalagaMalaga, Spain; Department of Applied Mathematics, Superior Technical School of Engineering in Informatics, University of MalagaMalaga, Spain
| | - María J Torres-Prioris
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit and Cathedra ARPA of Aphasia, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of MalagaMalaga, Spain; Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, University of MalagaMalaga, Spain
| | - Irene De-Torres
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit and Cathedra ARPA of Aphasia, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of MalagaMalaga, Spain; Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Regional University Hospital, MalagaMalaga, Spain
| | - Francisco Alfaro
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga Malaga, Spain
| | - Antonio L Gutiérrez-Cardo
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, University of Malaga Malaga, Spain
| | - Miquel Baquero
- Service of Neurology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe Valencia, Spain
| | - Rafael Ruiz-Cruces
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit and Cathedra ARPA of Aphasia, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of Malaga Malaga, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Dávila
- Cognitive Neurology and Aphasia Unit and Cathedra ARPA of Aphasia, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Sanitarias, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of MalagaMalaga, Spain; Department of Psychobiology and Methodology of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, University of MalagaMalaga, Spain
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Ooi Y, Inui-Yamamoto C, Yoshioka Y, Seiyama A, Seki J. 11.7 T MR Imaging Revealed Dilatation of Virchow-Robin Spaces within Hippocampus in Maternally Lipopolysaccharide-exposed Rats. Magn Reson Med Sci 2016; 16:54-60. [PMID: 27149945 PMCID: PMC5600044 DOI: 10.2463/mrms.mp.2015-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE 11.7 Tesla MRI was examined to detect Virchow-Robin spaces (VRSs) smaller than 100 μm in the rat brain. The effects of maternal exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were evaluated on basis of the number of dilated VRSs in the offspring rat brain. METHODS T2-weighted MRI with an in-plane resolution up to 78 μm (repetition time = 5000 ms, echo time = 35 ms, slice thickness = 250 μm, imaging plane, coronal) was applied to identify VRSs. The dilated VRSs were counted in the rat brain at 5 and 10 weeks of age. The dams of half the number in each group were treated with LPS during pregnancy, and the remaining half was employed as control. LPS injection in gestation period was used to simulate maternal infections, the method of which was widely accepted as a rat model inducing neuropsychiatric disorders in the offspring. Effects of LPS exposure on the offspring rat brain were statistically investigated. RESULTS VRSs as small as 78 μm were successfully detected by the ultra high-field MRI. All dilated VRSs were observed within lacunosum molecular layer of hippocampus, and molecular and granular layers of dentate gyrus around hippocampal fissure. In juvenile rats (5 weeks of age), the number of dilated VRSs was significantly increased in the prenatal LPS exposed rat brain (12.9 ± 2.4, n = 7) than in the control (5.3 ± 1.5, n = 7, P < 0.05), while in young adult rats (10 weeks of age), there was no significant difference in the number between the prenatal LPS exposed rat brain (3.6 ± 0.9, n = 5) and the control (2.6 ± 0.4, n = 5). CONCLUSION The results of the present study suggested that maternal infection might cause dilatation of VRSs through neural damages especially in the dentate gyrus of the offspring rats. Thus, ultra high-field MRI can offer a promising diagnostic tool capable of determining the location of neonatal brain damage caused by maternal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Ooi
- Division of Pathogenesis and Control of Oral Disease, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University
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40
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Azmitia EC, Saccomano ZT, Alzoobaee MF, Boldrini M, Whitaker-Azmitia PM. Persistent Angiogenesis in the Autism Brain: An Immunocytochemical Study of Postmortem Cortex, Brainstem and Cerebellum. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:1307-18. [PMID: 26667147 PMCID: PMC4836621 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2672-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the current work, we conducted an immunocytochemical search for markers of ongoing neurogenesis (e.g. nestin) in auditory cortex from postmortem sections of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and age-matched control donors. We found nestin labeling in cells of the vascular system, indicating blood vessels plasticity. Evidence of angiogenesis was seen throughout superior temporal cortex (primary auditory cortex), fusiform cortex (face recognition center), pons/midbrain and cerebellum in postmortem brains from ASD patients but not control brains. We found significant increases in both nestin and CD34, which are markers of angiogenesis localized to pericyte cells and endothelial cells, respectively. This labeling profile is indicative of splitting (intussusceptive), rather than sprouting, angiogenesis indicating the blood vessels are in constant flux rather than continually expanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Azmitia
- Departments of Biology and Psychiatry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, New York, NY, 10003, USA.
| | - Z T Saccomano
- Departments of Biology and Psychiatry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - M F Alzoobaee
- Departments of Biology and Psychiatry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - M Boldrini
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - P M Whitaker-Azmitia
- Departments of Psychology Program in Integrative Neuroscience, and Psychiatry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
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Hutton J. Does Rubella Cause Autism: A 2015 Reappraisal? Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:25. [PMID: 26869906 PMCID: PMC4734211 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the 1970s, Stella Chess found a high prevalence of autism in children with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), 200 times that of the general population at the time. Many researchers quote this fact to add proof to the current theory that maternal infection with immune system activation in pregnancy leads to autism in the offspring. This rubella and autism association is presented with the notion that rubella has been eliminated in today’s world. CRS cases are no longer typically seen; yet, autistic children often share findings of CRS including deafness, congenital heart defects, and to a lesser extent visual changes. Autistic children commonly have hyperactivity and spasticity, as do CRS children. Both autistic and CRS individuals may develop type 1 diabetes as young adults. Neuropathology of CRS infants may reveal cerebral vasculitis with narrowed lumens and cerebral necrosis. Neuroradiological findings of children with CRS show calcifications, periventricular leukomalacia, and dilated perivascular spaces. Neuroradiology of autism has also demonstrated hyperintensities, leukomalacia, and prominent perivascular spaces. PET studies of autistic individuals exhibit decreased perfusion to areas of the brain similarly affected by rubella. In both autism and CRS, certain changes in the brain have implicated the immune system. Several children with autism lack antibodies to rubella, as do children with CRS. These numerous similarities increase the probability of an association between rubella virus and autism. Rubella and autism cross many ethnicities in many countries. Contrary to current belief, rubella has not been eradicated and globally affects up to 5% of pregnant women. Susceptibility continues as vaccines are not given worldwide and are not fully protective. Rubella might still cause autism, even in vaccinated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Hutton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Woman's Hospital of Texas , Houston, TX , USA
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Baum SH, Stevenson RA, Wallace MT. Behavioral, perceptual, and neural alterations in sensory and multisensory function in autism spectrum disorder. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 134:140-60. [PMID: 26455789 PMCID: PMC4730891 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Although sensory processing challenges have been noted since the first clinical descriptions of autism, it has taken until the release of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013 for sensory problems to be included as part of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the diagnostic profile. Because sensory information forms the building blocks for higher-order social and cognitive functions, we argue that sensory processing is not only an additional piece of the puzzle, but rather a critical cornerstone for characterizing and understanding ASD. In this review we discuss what is currently known about sensory processing in ASD, how sensory function fits within contemporary models of ASD, and what is understood about the differences in the underlying neural processing of sensory and social communication observed between individuals with and without ASD. In addition to highlighting the sensory features associated with ASD, we also emphasize the importance of multisensory processing in building perceptual and cognitive representations, and how deficits in multisensory integration may also be a core characteristic of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Baum
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ryan A Stevenson
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark T Wallace
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Blackmon K, Ben-Avi E, Wang X, Pardoe HR, Di Martino A, Halgren E, Devinsky O, Thesen T, Kuzniecky R. Periventricular white matter abnormalities and restricted repetitive behavior in autism spectrum disorder. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2015; 10:36-45. [PMID: 26693400 PMCID: PMC4660377 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2015.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Malformations of cortical development are found at higher rates in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than in healthy controls on postmortem neuropathological evaluation but are more variably observed on visual review of in-vivo MRI brain scans. This may be due to the visually elusive nature of many malformations on MRI. Here, we utilize a quantitative approach to determine whether a volumetric measure of heterotopic gray matter in the white matter is elevated in people with ASD, relative to typically developing controls (TDC). Data from a primary sample of 48 children/young adults with ASD and 48 age-, and gender-matched TDCs, selected from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) open-access database, were analyzed to compare groups on (1) blinded review of high-resolution T1-weighted research sequences; and (2) quantitative measurement of white matter hypointensity (WMH) volume calculated from the same T1-weighted scans. Groupwise WMH volume comparisons were repeated in an independent, multi-site sample (80 ASD/80 TDC), also selected from ABIDE. Visual review resulted in equivalent proportions of imaging abnormalities in the ASD and TDC group. However, quantitative analysis revealed elevated periventricular and deep subcortical WMH volumes in ASD. This finding was replicated in the independent, multi-site sample. Periventricular WMH volume was not associated with age but was associated with greater restricted repetitive behaviors on both parent-reported and clinician-rated assessment inventories. Thus, findings demonstrate that periventricular WMH volume is elevated in ASD and associated with a higher degree of repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Although the etiology of focal WMH clusters is unknown, the absence of age effects suggests that they may reflect a static anomaly. Periventricular white matter hypointensity (WMH) volume is elevated in autism. ASD-associated WMH volume elevations were observed in independent samples. WMH volume does not change with age in children/young adults. Periventricular WMH volume is associated with restricted repetitive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Blackmon
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Emma Ben-Avi
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA ; Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Xiuyuan Wang
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Heath R Pardoe
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Adriana Di Martino
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Child Study Center at NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Eric Halgren
- Department of Radiology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92069, USA ; Department of Neurosciences, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92069, USA
| | - Orrin Devinsky
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Thomas Thesen
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA ; Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ruben Kuzniecky
- NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Erbetta A, Bulgheroni S, Contarino VE, Chiapparini L, Esposito S, Annunziata S, Riva D. Low-Functioning Autism and Nonsyndromic Intellectual Disability: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Findings. J Child Neurol 2015; 30:1658-63. [PMID: 25895913 DOI: 10.1177/0883073815578523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Previous neuroradiologic studies reported a high incidence of abnormalities in low-functioning autistic children. In this population, it is difficult to know which abnormality depends on autism itself and which is related to intellectual disability associated with autism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of neuroradiologic abnormalities in low-functioning autistic children compared to Intellectual Quotient and age-matched nonsyndromic children, using the same set of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences. MRI was rated as abnormal in 44% of autistic and 54% of children with intellectual disability. The main results were mega cisterna magna in autism and hypoplastic corpus callosum in intellectual disability. These abnormalities are morphologically visible signs of altered brain development. These findings, more frequent than expected, are not specific to the 2 conditions. Although MRI cannot be considered mandatory, it allows an in-depth clinical assessment in nonsyndromic intellectual-disabled and autistic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Erbetta
- Neuroradiology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Bulgheroni
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Chiapparini
- Neuroradiology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Esposito
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Annunziata
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Daria Riva
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milano, Italy
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45
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Stevenson RA, Segers M, Ferber S, Barense MD, Camarata S, Wallace MT. Keeping time in the brain: Autism spectrum disorder and audiovisual temporal processing. Autism Res 2015; 9:720-38. [PMID: 26402725 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Revised: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
A growing area of interest and relevance in the study of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) focuses on the relationship between multisensory temporal function and the behavioral, perceptual, and cognitive impairments observed in ASD. Atypical sensory processing is becoming increasingly recognized as a core component of autism, with evidence of atypical processing across a number of sensory modalities. These deviations from typical processing underscore the value of interpreting ASD within a multisensory framework. Furthermore, converging evidence illustrates that these differences in audiovisual processing may be specifically related to temporal processing. This review seeks to bridge the connection between temporal processing and audiovisual perception, and to elaborate on emerging data showing differences in audiovisual temporal function in autism. We also discuss the consequence of such changes, the specific impact on the processing of different classes of audiovisual stimuli (e.g. speech vs. nonspeech, etc.), and the presumptive brain processes and networks underlying audiovisual temporal integration. Finally, possible downstream behavioral implications, and possible remediation strategies are outlined. Autism Res 2016, 9: 720-738. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A Stevenson
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Magali Segers
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susanne Ferber
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Rotman Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Morgan D Barense
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Rotman Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen Camarata
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Mark T Wallace
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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46
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Sacco R, Lintas C, Persico AM. Autism genetics: Methodological issues and experimental design. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2015; 58:946-57. [PMID: 26335734 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-012-4315-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder of developmental origin, where multiple genetic and environmental factors likely interact resulting in a clinical continuum between "affected" and "unaffected" individuals in the general population. During the last two decades, relevant progress has been made in identifying chromosomal regions and genes in linkage or association with autism, but no single gene has emerged as a major cause of disease in a large number of patients. The purpose of this paper is to discuss specific methodological issues and experimental strategies in autism genetic research, based on fourteen years of experience in patient recruitment and association studies of autism spectrum disorder in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Sacco
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry and Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Rome, I-00128, Italy.,Department of Experimental Neurosciences, I.R.C.C.S. "Fondazione Santa Lucia", Rome, I-00143, Italy
| | - Carla Lintas
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry and Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Rome, I-00128, Italy.,Department of Experimental Neurosciences, I.R.C.C.S. "Fondazione Santa Lucia", Rome, I-00143, Italy
| | - Antonio M Persico
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry and Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry and Neurogenetics, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Rome, I-00128, Italy. .,Department of Experimental Neurosciences, I.R.C.C.S. "Fondazione Santa Lucia", Rome, I-00143, Italy.
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47
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Blackmon K. Structural MRI biomarkers of shared pathogenesis in autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2015; 47:172-82. [PMID: 25812936 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Etiological factors that contribute to a high comorbidity between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and epilepsy are the subject of much debate. Does epilepsy cause ASD or are there common underlying brain abnormalities that increase the risk of developing both disorders? This review summarizes evidence from quantitative MRI studies to suggest that abnormalities of brain structure are not necessarily the consequence of ASD and epilepsy but are antecedent to disease expression. Abnormal gray and white matter volumes are present prior to onset of ASD and evident at the time of onset in pediatric epilepsy. Aberrant brain growth trajectories are also common in both disorders, as evidenced by blunted gray matter maturation and white matter maturation. Although the etiological factors that explain these abnormalities are unclear, high heritability estimates for gray matter volume and white matter microstructure demonstrate that genetic factors assert a strong influence on brain structure. In addition, histopathological studies of ASD and epilepsy brain tissue reveal elevated rates of malformations of cortical development (MCDs), such as focal cortical dysplasia and heterotopias, which supports disruption of neuronal migration as a contributing factor. Although MCDs are not always visible on MRI with conventional radiological analysis, quantitative MRI detection methods show high sensitivity to subtle malformations in epilepsy and can be potentially applied to MCD detection in ASD. Such an approach is critical for establishing quantitative neuroanatomic endophenotypes that can be used in genetic research. In the context of emerging drug treatments for seizures and autism symptoms, such as rapamycin and rapalogs, in vivo neuroimaging markers of subtle structural brain abnormalities could improve sample stratification in human clinical trials and potentially extend the range of patients that might benefit from treatment. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Autism and Epilepsy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Blackmon
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Trento 38068, Italy.
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48
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Lukose R, Beebe K, Kulesza RJ. Organization of the human superior olivary complex in 15q duplication syndromes and autism spectrum disorders. Neuroscience 2014; 286:216-30. [PMID: 25484361 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a number of behavioral and social features. Although the etiology of most cases of ASD is idiopathic, a significant number of cases can be attributed to genetic causes, such as chromosome 15q duplications [dup(15q)]. Recent neuropathological investigations have provided evidence for distinct patterns of heterotopias and dysplasias in ASD and subjects with both ASD and dup(15q). Individuals with ASD characteristically have hearing difficulties and we have previously demonstrated significant and consistent hypoplasia in a number of auditory brainstem nuclei in subjects with ASD. Herein, we compare results from a morphometric investigation of auditory brainstem nuclei in subjects with ASD, dup(15q) and controls. Our observations in subjects with ASD support our previous reports. However, in subjects with dup(15q), we find significantly fewer neurons and in many nuclei, neurons were significantly smaller than in ASD subjects. Finally, we find a notably higher incidence of ectopic neurons in dup(15q). These results suggest that in the brainstem, these neuropathological conditions may evolve from some of the same developmental errors but are distinguished on microscopic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lukose
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center - Hamot, Department of Neurology, United States
| | - K Beebe
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Anatomy, United States
| | - R J Kulesza
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Anatomy, United States.
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Erbetta A, Bulgheroni S, Contarino V, Chiapparini L, Esposito S, Vago C, Riva D. Neuroimaging findings in 41 low-functioning children with autism spectrum disorder: a single-center experience. J Child Neurol 2014; 29:1626-31. [PMID: 24346312 DOI: 10.1177/0883073813511856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The data on the rate of brain imaging abnormalities in autistic spectrum disorders are still inconsistent. A recent study on patients with high-functioning autism found that approximately 90% of children had normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans whereas an unexpected high rate of MRI abnormalities was reported in 77 nonsyndromic autistic children with or without intellectual disability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of neuroradiologic findings in low-functioning autistic children compared to controls matched for age. Minor brain abnormalities were found in 44% of patients and 22% of controls. Our main result is the high rate of mega cisterna magna in autistic patients. High rate of minor neuroradiologic abnormalities in low-functioning autistic patients could contribute to the research about the various endophenotypes and complete the clinical assessment of children with autistic spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Erbetta
- Neuroradiology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Bulgheroni
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Valeria Contarino
- Neuroradiology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Luisa Chiapparini
- Neuroradiology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Esposito
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Chiara Vago
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Daria Riva
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, via Celoria 11, 20133 Milano, Italy
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50
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Wallace MT, Stevenson RA. The construct of the multisensory temporal binding window and its dysregulation in developmental disabilities. Neuropsychologia 2014; 64:105-23. [PMID: 25128432 PMCID: PMC4326640 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2014.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Revised: 08/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Behavior, perception and cognition are strongly shaped by the synthesis of information across the different sensory modalities. Such multisensory integration often results in performance and perceptual benefits that reflect the additional information conferred by having cues from multiple senses providing redundant or complementary information. The spatial and temporal relationships of these cues provide powerful statistical information about how these cues should be integrated or "bound" in order to create a unified perceptual representation. Much recent work has examined the temporal factors that are integral in multisensory processing, with many focused on the construct of the multisensory temporal binding window - the epoch of time within which stimuli from different modalities is likely to be integrated and perceptually bound. Emerging evidence suggests that this temporal window is altered in a series of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, dyslexia and schizophrenia. In addition to their role in sensory processing, these deficits in multisensory temporal function may play an important role in the perceptual and cognitive weaknesses that characterize these clinical disorders. Within this context, focus on improving the acuity of multisensory temporal function may have important implications for the amelioration of the "higher-order" deficits that serve as the defining features of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark T Wallace
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, 465 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Department of Hearing & Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Ryan A Stevenson
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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