Autism And Neurodegeneration: Distinct Disorders Or A Shared Biological Continuum?
For a long time, conditions like autism, which appear early in life, and neurodegenerative diseases, which typically emerge later and involve the progressive loss of brain cells, have been viewed as entirely separate. However, new research suggests a fascinating overlap in their biological underpinnings.
Scientists have found that both types of conditions share several key biological pathways. These include issues with mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of our cells, and problems with proteostasis, which is how our cells manage and maintain their proteins. There are also similarities in how the brain’s immune system responds (neuroimmune alterations) and in the stability of brain networks.
Genetic studies further reveal that some pathways influence both early brain development and the brain’s ability to resist damage later in life. Studies looking at brain circuits also show common vulnerabilities, such as issues with the cerebellum (a part of the brain important for coordination) and an imbalance between brain cell excitation and inhibition.
Furthermore, population-level data indicate that adults with autism may have a higher risk of developing conditions like dementia and features similar to Parkinson’s disease. This suggests that changes in brain development early in life might create hidden vulnerabilities that, under certain circumstances, can contribute to neurodegenerative processes as a person ages. This new perspective encourages a more integrated approach to understanding brain health throughout a person’s entire life.
Source: link to paper