What Causes Autistic Disorder?
No one knows exactly what causes autistic disorder, but scientists think that both genetic and environmental factors might play a role. 4 Recent research shows that autistic disorder is related to abnormalities in brain structures or functions. Studies are ongoing to examine whether autistic disorder affects specific areas of the brain or if there are problems with the transmission of signals from one part of the brain to another. 5 Some studies in identical twins suggest that autistic disorder can be inherited. Currently, scientists are researching irregularities in genetic codes and specific genes to determine the role that heredity might play in autistic disorder.
