Autism: Genetics, Environment, Pathogenesis, and Treatment
A special issue of Genes (ISSN 2073-4425). This special issue belongs to the section "Neurogenomics".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 July 2026 | Viewed by 18
Special Issue Editor
Interests: molecular biology; genetics, multi-omics, autism spectrum disorders
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by persistent impairments in social interaction and communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. ASD affects approximately 1% of the global population, with different functional abilities and support needs: some autistic individuals can live independently; others require lifelong assistance, with a substantial impact on families and healthcare systems.
ASD causes are not fully understood and no cure is currently available. ASD is recognized as a multifactorial condition arising from complex interactions between genetic susceptibility and environmental influences. To date, hundreds of genetic risk factors have been identified, alongside environmental contributors such as advanced parental age, perinatal complications, exposure to environmental pollutants, and alterations in the gut microbiota. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms linking these factors to ASD remain largely unresolved.
We therefore encourage the submission of original research articles that leverage recent advances in multi-omics technologies, animal and organoid models, ASD data repository, and state-of-the-art statistical, bioinformatic, and AI approaches to address the complexity of this multifactorial disorder. Studies aimed at identifying novel biomarkers and pathogenic pathways are particularly welcome, as they may pave the way for early diagnosis, personalized therapies, and ultimately improved prevention and treatment of ASD.
Dr. Alessandra Mezzelani
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)
- pathogenesis
- genetic factors
- environmental factors
- epigenetics
- gut microbiota
- animal models
- organoid models
- multi-omics
- bioinformatics
- biostatistics
- biomarkers
- diagnosis
- patient stratification
- personalized interventions
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