Autism

Question 1

In the first 25 weeks of gestation, which stages of neural development are occuring?

Answer 1

Neurogenesis and neural migration.

Question 2

From around 20-25 weeks of gestation to the first year or two postnatal, which stages of neural development are occuring?

Answer 2

Axon pathfinding and synaptogenesis.

Question 3

From years 2-3 yrs postnatal, what stage of neural development is occurring?

Answer 3

Brain maturation.

Question 4

Know the basic characteristics of autism

Answer 4

1. Deficits in Social Communication + Interaction
   i. Problems with reciprocating social and/or
   emotional interactions
   ii. Severe problems maintaining friendships
   iii. Nonverbal communication problems
2. Deficits in Restricted Interests
   i. Strict adherence to routines or rituals
   ii. Restricted interests
   iii. High/low tolerance for stimulation

Question 5

Have a general understanding of the characteristics of autism and how the criteria for autism have changed with each version of the DSM.

Answer 5

DSM-I does not include autism

DSM-II autism is included in schizophrenia

DSM-III added infantile autism and PDD (pervasive development disorder)

DSM-IV added 5 categories of ASD

DSM-V eliminated Rett syndrome

Question 6

What are the 4 major proteins implicated in ASD?

Answer 6

NRXN
NLGN
c-Met
Shank