Social timing, clock genes and autism: a new hypothesis

J Intellect Disabil Res. 2002 May;46(Pt 4):352-8. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2788.2002.00423.x.

Abstract

Background: Timing and social timing deficits are fundamental in autism and may play a developmental role in its manifestation. Sleep problems are associated with this disorder, as is a reduction or loss of Purkinje cells associated with regions of the brain which co-ordinate fine motor movements. Genetic studies suggest that a number of genes of limited effect lead to autism and that the genes are epistatic.

Conclusions: We suggest that anomalies in clock genes operating as timing genes in high frequency oscillator systems may underlie the timing deficits of autism. We outline how anomalies in methylation-related genes may also be implicated.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autistic Disorder / genetics
  • Autistic Disorder / physiopathology*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chromosome Mapping
  • Circadian Rhythm / genetics
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Neuropsychology