1. Ascone F, Buzzelli V, Mottarlini F, Di Trapano M, Miglioranza P, Rava A, Feo A, Spano F, Hausman M, Sugaya K, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Trezza V. Psilocybin improves novel object recognition in a rat model of Fragile X Syndrome through the modulation of the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway. Neuropsychopharmacology;2026 (Feb 13)

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited intellectual disability and a leading monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As a synaptic disorder, FXS involves the loss of Fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMRP), leading to abnormal dendrite development and immature dendritic spines. Serotonergic signaling, essential for neuronal development and circuit remodeling, has been implicated in ASD and related conditions, including FXS, raising the possibility that serotonergic modulation could ameliorate neurodevelopmental impairments. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, a serotonergic compound, in the validated Fmr1-(Δ)exon 8 rat model of FXS. Psilocybin microdosing rescued deficits in NOR. Importantly, its benefits on recognition memory persisted despite pretreatment with the 5HT2AR antagonist, volinanserin, or the 5HT1AR antagonist, WAY-100635, indicating that classical serotonergic receptor activation is not required. In contrast, pretreatment with the TrkB receptor antagonist, ANA-12, abolished psilocybin’s effects, implicating BDNF/TrkB signaling as essential. At the molecular level, psilocybin normalized mature BDNF (mBDNF), increased TrkB, and restored downstream AKT signaling in the prefrontal cortex of Fmr1-(Δ)exon 8 rats, pathways strongly linked to synaptic plasticity and cognitive function. These findings demonstrate that psilocybin rescues object recognition memory deficits in this rat model of FXS via BDNF/TrkB-AKT signaling rather than serotonergic receptor mechanisms. By dissociating therapeutic effects from hallucinogenic pathways, our results highlight psilocybin microdosing as a promising therapeutic strategy for neurodevelopmental disorders such as FXS and ASD.

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2. Bagadood NH. Distinct Parental Stress Architectures: A Network Comparison of Posttraumatic and Work-Related Stress in Mothers and Fathers of Children Newly Diagnosed With ASD. Clin Psychol Psychother;2026 (Jan-Feb);33(1):e70235.

Parents of children newly diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience substantial posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), which may interact with work-related stress differently in mothers and fathers. Understanding these parent-specific patterns is crucial, as they influence family functioning, caregiving and child development. This study used a network approach to compare the structure and bridging pathways linking PTSS and work-related stress in mothers versus fathers of children newly diagnosed with ASD in Saudi Arabia. In a cross-sectional dyadic design, 150 mother-father dyads (150 families; N = 300 parents: 150 mothers and 150 fathers) of children clinically diagnosed with ASD by qualified specialists (child psychiatrists, developmental paediatricians, neurologists or clinical psychologists) within the past 12 months completed an online survey (April 2024-September 2025). PTSS were assessed using the 22-item Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R; diagnosis-related index event), and work-related stress was measured using an eight-item scale. Symptom networks were estimated separately for mothers and fathers, and bridge indices were calculated to identify nodes linking the PTSS and work-stress communities. Network structures were then compared using the Network Comparison Test (NCT). The overall network structure differed between mothers and fathers (p = 0.003), while global connectivity did not (p = .116). No specific edge or centrality differences remained significant after multiple-comparison correction. Descriptively, bridging differed by parent group: In mothers, sleep difficulty and avoidance of talking about the event were the most prominent PTSS bridge nodes, alongside work-stress nodes reflecting underutilization of skills and work-family interference. In fathers, low influence/control over work tasks and avoidance of talking about the event were the most prominent bridge nodes, with additional bridging contributions from work-family interference and insufficient appreciation/rewards. PTSS and work-related stress formed distinct but interconnected communities in both mothers and fathers, with different bridge pathways linking domains. Interventions may benefit from targeting the domain ‘interfaces’ that differ by parent role (e.g., sleep-related PTSS in mothers and perceived work control in fathers), alongside work-family spillover in both groups.

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3. Bouargane Z, Olucha-Bordonau FE, Bennis M, Ba-M’hamed S, Lamghari-Moubarrad FZ. Comparative analysis of BORIS, Ethovision, DeepLabCut, and SimBA for quantifying autism spectrum disorder-like behaviors in the valproic acid mouse model. Neurosci Lett;2026 (Feb 10);875:138542.

Preclinical research often relies on animal observation and subsequent behavioral analysis to study brain function; however, traditional methods are considered time-consuming and prone to human error. In contrast, emerging machine learning (ML) approaches now enable rapid, objective, and high-resolution behavioral assessment, such as DeepLabCut (DLC), combined with post-processing tools like Simple Behavioral Analysis (SimBA), which allow high-resolution behavioral classification. DLC provides accurate markerless tracking, while SimBA improves sensitivity and reliability in behavior identification. This study tests the hypothesis that pose-estimation-based behavioral analysis increases sensitivity for detecting functionally relevant impairments in social investigation and motor pattern organization in the valproic acid (VPA) mouse model of ASD, compared with conventional semi-automated tracking (Ethovision) and manual scoring (BORIS). Our results revealed significant and consistent core ASD-like symptoms in VPA-exposed mice across all methods. In the 3-chamber test, the tracking of the animal’s nose provided greater precision and accuracy in detecting sociability deficits in VPA-exposed mice compared to the Ethovision analysis method. Correlation and Bland-Altman analyses indicated moderate agreement between both approaches for chamber time, but low concordance for the time in the proximity of the cages. Additionally, VPA-exposed mice exhibited significantly more repetitive behaviors (self-grooming and rearing) across both scoring methods. Indeed, DLC and BORIS scoring results demonstrated a higher correlation coefficient and a lower bias in the Bland-Altman analysis. Overall, this study demonstrates that integrating DLC and SimBA enhances behavioral scoring precision, overcomes limitations of conventional methods, and surpasses commercial automated tracking systems in detecting ASD-like phenotypes in mice.

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4. Chericoni N, Conti E, Costanzo V, Ieri F, Colombino I, Guainai G, Riva B, Apicella F, Guzzetta A, Calderoni S, Colombi C. Clinical and Sociodemographic Characteristics Associated with Access to Early Intervention Programs for Infants with Prodromes of Autism. J Clin Med;2026 (Jan 28);15(3)

Background/Objectives: Increasing scientific evidence supports the importance of early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), followed by timely intervention, in optimizing developmental trajectories. Despite these advances, achieving an early diagnosis remains challenging, and substantial delays in the diagnostic process continue to be reported worldwide. This study aimed to describe the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics associated with early referral to a telehealth parent-mediated intervention program for infants at high likelihood for ASD, under 18 months of age, with the broader goal of informing clinical services in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. Methods: Infants were evaluated by a multidisciplinary team using standardized measures to assess autism risk, developmental functioning, adaptive behavior, and parental stress. Potential differences in age at access to the program were examined by comparing families who were referred before versus after 12 months of age. Results: Of the 78 families who expressed interest in the program, 69 consented and 60 met eligibility criteria (male/female ratio = 40/20; mean age = 10.0 months). Families were evenly distributed across Italy, and 66% of parents held a university degree. Self-referral accounted for 62% of cases. Higher parental concern was associated with earlier referral and children referred after 12 months of age showed significantly lower developmental and adaptive functioning scores. Conclusions: These findings support the feasibility of identifying prodromes of autism within the first year of life and highlight gaps in specialized services for infants at elevated likelihood in Italy. Maternal concern and self-referral drove early consultation, underscoring the need for improved pediatric training. Future studies should assess longitudinal population-based screening and the feasibility and long-term impact of timely interventions in routine care.

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5. Chilà P, Pricipato A, Roccaforte G, Corpina F, Marraffa C, Vivona G, Failla C, Pioggia G, Marino F. Sensory-based visual attention in autism: from normalization to adaptive support. Front Psychiatry;2026;17:1756363.

Over the years, attentional characteristics such as reduced attention to faces or eye contact have been considered impairments and in need of correction in people with autism. This work proposes a reinterpretation of visual attention in people with autism, going beyond the traditional deficit-based approach. It proposes a shift in perspective by examining the characteristics of visual attention in people with autism as a resource for personal orientation strategies in complex and challenging environments. To better study and observe these mechanisms, the use of digital technologies such as mobile eye trackers, virtual reality, and other digital technologies can offer valuable support for better delineating the different strengths of this type of attentional modality, which deviates from the « norm. » Therefore, rather than focusing on correction, the shift in perspective should focus much more on the understanding, well-being, and autonomy of people with autism. Viewing autistic attention not as a problem, but as a resource to be valued, is the first step towards building a truly inclusive society.

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6. Coll-Oltra JV, Lambrou-Martínez Á, Camacho-Ruiz JA, Limiñana-Gras RM, Galvez-Sánchez CM. Non-Suicidal Self-Injury in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review of Associated Factors and Management Difficulties. J Clin Med;2026 (Feb 4);15(3)

Background: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is defined as the intentional damage to one’s body tissue without suicidal intent and for reasons that are not socially sanctioned. While NSSI has been widely studied in the general population, its clinical correlates and management in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remain less clearly characterized, and it is often conflated with self-injurious behavior (SIB) described within restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs). In individuals with ASD, NSSI may be associated with emotional, behavioral, cognitive, social, medical, and demographic factors, and it differs from SIB typically observed among individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Studies published between 2000 and 2025 that assessed NSSI in individuals with a formal ASD diagnosis were included. Etiological/clinical correlates, explanatory mechanisms, and management challenges were examined. Sixteen studies were selected from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Findings were synthesized using narrative and thematic approaches. Results: The prevalence of NSSI among individuals with ASD ranged from 24% to 50%. Associated factors included emotion dysregulation (including alexithymia and affective distress), behavioral dysregulation (e.g., impulsivity/hyperactivity and aggression), sensory processing difficulties, communication and social impairments, and medical comorbidities (i.e., gastrointestinal and sleep problems), with preliminary evidence also implicating perinatal factors. NSSI was linked to emotion regulation, sensation seeking, and social communication processes. Early intervention and parental involvement were identified as protective factors. Conclusions: NSSI in ASD is a complex, multifactorial phenomenon frequently linked to emotion-regulation needs. Affective imbalance represents a central-though not exclusive-pathway. The review supports standardized terminology, function-based assessment, and clearer differentiation from SIB/RRBs, with implications for individualized interventions and sustained monitoring in persistent or severe cases. Routine screening for medical and sensory contributors may further improve case management and reduce preventable clinical burden.

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7. Erickson S. Opportunity awaits: Comprehensive medication management for adults with developmental disabilities living in the community. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003);2026 (Feb 13):103050.

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8. Fanghella M, Dima D, Pinotsis D, Gaigg SB, Calvo-Merino B, Forster B. Changes in Intrinsic Activity of the Primary Somatosensory Cortex Causally Explain Differences in Emotion Perception in Autism. Autism Res;2026 (Feb 13)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by certain difficulties in emotion-related processing. Recent research using electroencephalography (EEG) to measure somatosensory evoked potentials during emotion perception has shown reduced embodiment of emotional expressions in autistic compared to neurotypical individuals, independently from differences in visual processing. However, the underlying neural dynamics are not clear. In this study, we use Dynamic Causal Modeling (DCM) on EEG data to investigate whether reduced embodiment during emotion processing in ASD individuals is caused by changes in intrinsic connectivity within the somatosensory cortex, or by top-down modulatory effects from higher-order frontal areas. We constructed a model involving the primary and secondary right somatosensory cortex, the right supplementary motor area and the right inferior frontal gyrus, and tested effective connectivity during emotion or gender discrimination tasks in two groups of ASD and typically developing (TD) participants (n = 38, male and female, 2 females). Our results reveal that task-related differences in electrocortical activity between the emotion and gender tasks are causally explained by changes in intrinsic activity within the right primary somatosensory cortex (rS1) in both TD and ASD. Importantly, these intrinsic changes in rS1 are significantly different between TD and ASD groups and individual task-related changes in rS1 significantly correlate with alexithymia traits. Our study provides novel evidence on the neural dynamics underlying difficulties in emotion processing in ASD individuals, highlighting that differential intrinsic activations of the rS1 are causally involved in such difficulties, and suggests that they are mediated by alexithymia. Autism is often characterized by difficulties in perceiving and recognizing emotions. These differences involve not only visual perception, but also somatic, visceral, and motoric re‐enactment of the observed emotion (embodiment). Our results highlight that differences in emotion embodiment in autism are explained by changes in the right primary somatosensory cortex, and they are mediated by alexithymia. eng

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9. Hao QH, Wang JY, Yang JD, Tong Y, Xiao L, Zeng XQ, Li W, Hu SF, Lv ZH. Clinical efficacy observation of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with auditory integration training in children with ASD. Front Psychiatry;2026;17:1704732.

BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become a major public health issue of global concern and has attracted the attention of researchers in recent years. Due to the high incidence and persistent lifelong dysfunction of children with ASD, exploring active and effective intervention strategies plays a key role in their prognosis. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and auditory integration training (AIT) are both promising neuromodulation methods and play an important role in clinical intervention in children with ASD. This study aims to explore the clinical effectiveness of rTMS and AIT combined intervention compared with single intervention through randomized controlled experiments, and provide scientific basis for clinical intervention in ASD. METHODS: A total of 60 participants with ASD were randomly assigned to the study group (rTMS combined with AIT) and the control group (rTMS) in a 1:1 ratio, with 30 participants in each group. The outcome indicators were the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R). Clinical data were collected at baseline and after intervention. Data were processed and analyzed by SPSS. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of intervention, the total scores of ABC, CARS, SDQ and RBS-R in the two groups were significantly improved compared with those before intervention (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, after 12 weeks of intervention, the total scores of ABC and CARS, as well as the total scores and some dimensions of SDQ and RBS-R were significantly improved (P < 0.05). DISCUSSION: The intervention therapy of rTMS combined with AIT has significant efficacy in children with ASD, which can significantly improve the core symptoms and emotional behavioral problems of children with ASD. This method is worthy of being promoted and applied in clinical practice. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=225665, identifier ChiCTR2400082706.

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10. İnci R, Emrem M, Yıldız M, Yazici B, Uygun D. The impact of autism awareness of mothers of preschool children on the level of microbiota awareness. Sci Rep;2026 (Feb 12)

The relationship between gut microbiota and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has gained significant attention in recent years, with growing evidence This study explores whether heightened awareness of autism, particularly regarding microbiota, influences the perceptions and knowledge of mothers, and whether this awareness correlates with a more informed approach to managing microbiota in children with autism. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 434 mothers of preschool children in Turkey between March and August 2024. G*Power 3.1 and SPSS-22 program were used in the analysis of the study. The regression model developed to reveal the impacts of Autism Awareness level on microbiota awareness level was found to be significant F(1,432) = 66.386, p = 0.001 and 13.3% of the variance in the dependent variable (R2=0.133) was explained by the independent variable. Autism Awareness level has a positive and significant impact on microbiota awareness level (β = 0.365; t (432) = 8.148, p = 0.001). It was determined that increased autism awareness of individuals increased microbiota awareness. Longitudinal studies on autism awareness in mothers of preschool children are recommended. Investigating the relationship between autism awareness and microbiota in mothers of preschool children could significantly contribute to the development of holistic approaches to child development and health, as well as effective parent education programs.

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11. Janus J, Meyer D, Byrne E, Court K, Castle DJ, Rossell SL. Body dysmorphic symptoms in autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A comorbidity study. Aust N Z J Psychiatry;2026 (Feb 12):48674261418840.

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a persistently under-recognised psychiatric condition. Evidence suggests a degree of shared cognitive dysfunction and clinical presentation of BDD with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The current study is the first to investigate the co-occurrence of BDD, ASD and ADHD in a large online community sample. Utilising data from an online survey, we investigated the comorbidity frequency of BDD, ASD and ADHD, as well as the presence of possible undiagnosed BDD in these neurodevelopmental populations (N = 6844). Individuals with BDD did not report a higher frequency of ASD or ADHD comorbidity than those without BDD. However, individuals with neurodevelopmental diagnoses were significantly more likely to have possible undiagnosed BDD than those without a neurodevelopmental diagnosis (ASD adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.55, ADHD AOR = 2.45). These preliminary findings cautiously suggest that elevated body image concern and possible BDD in ASD and ADHD are potentially missed or misattributed to individuals’ neurodevelopmental diagnoses without further investigation.

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12. Liu CH, Chen YL, Ai W, Ni HC, Lai MC. The impact of autism on the relations between social anxiety, camouflaging, and depression in Taiwanese adolescents. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health;2026 (Feb 13)

BACKGROUND: Both camouflaging and social anxiety are adolescence-emerging phenomenon, rooted in social situations, and associated with mental health. The directionality between camouflaging and social anxiety in autistic versus non-autistic adolescents is underexplored. This study aims to investigate the inter-relations between camouflaging, social anxiety, and depression, and the moderating role of autism diagnosis on these inter-relations. METHODS: A total of 205 Taiwanese adolescents (100 autistic, 105 non-autistic) completed self-reported measures, including the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire, Chinese version (CAT-Q-Ch), Social Interaction Anxiety Scale, Chinese version (SIAS-C), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item (PHQ-9). Network analysis was used to examine the inter-relations among items of the CAT-Q-Ch and SIAS-C. Moderated mediation models, adjusted for generalized anxiety, examined the inter-relations among camouflaging, social anxiety, and depression, and how these associations varied by autism diagnosis. RESULTS: Autistic adolescents reported significantly higher scores on camouflaging, depression, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety than non-autistic adolescents. A network analysis showed that items from the CAT-Q-Ch formed two communities, and most SIAS-C items formed a third community, supporting the interpretation that camouflaging and social anxiety are related yet distinct constructs. For both autistic and non-autistic adolescents, social anxiety and camouflaging showed bidirectional indirect associations with depression. Critically, having an autism diagnosis significantly weakened the link between camouflaging and depression, as part of the indirect association between social anxiety and depression via camouflaging. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight the complex inter-relations among camouflaging, social anxiety, and depression, which may differ between autistic and non-autistic adolescents in Taiwan. Camouflaging may serve different functional roles and have different mental health implications for autistic and non-autistic adolescents. Future research should focus on teasing apart the complex conceptual, measurement, and causal mechanisms underlying the inter-relations between social anxiety and camouflaging in autistic versus non-autistic people.

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13. Liu X, Shen M, Liu B. Toward a rapid, non-invasive predictor of washed microbiota transplantation efficacy in pediatric autism spectrum disorder: considerations for clinical translation. J Transl Med;2026 (Feb 13);24(1):193.

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14. Miner S, McVoy M. Exploring the Relationship of Autism Spectrum Disorder Characteristics and Sleep Disturbances. Autism Dev Lang Impair;2026 (Jan-Dec);11:23969415261419740.

INTRODUCTION: Co-occurring conditions like sleep disturbances are prevalent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and have been linked to greater variability in clinical presentation, including social communication and behavioral challenges. This study examined the relationship between sleep disturbances and ASD characteristics in school-aged children. METHOD: In this descriptive, observational study, 24 children with ASD (ages 6-12) wore actigraphy monitors for up to seven nights to provide objective data on sleep onset latency, total nighttime sleep, and nighttime awakenings. Parents completed sleep diaries and the Autism Spectrum Rating Scale to assess impairments in social and communication, behaviors associated with ASD, and self-regulation. RESULTS: Of the 24 participants, 23 wore actigraphy monitors. Twenty-two children experienced at least one sleep disturbance, and of these, 21 had usable actigraphy data, with an average of 6.43 nights analyzed. A greater number of sleep disturbances was associated with increased parent-reported social-communication difficulties but lower parent-reported behavioral dysregulation scores. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that sleep disturbances may differentially influence the expression of ASD characteristics across social-communication and behavior. Considering sleep patterns in ASD research and clinical care may enhance understanding of variability in ASD and support the development of targeted interventions.

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15. Nuzum E, Medeisyte R, Eshetu A, Hoare S, Corbett A, Ballard C, Hampshire A, O’Nions E, John A, Stewart GR, Stott J. Autistic traits and suicidality in midlife and old age: investigating mediating effects of mental health and social connectedness. Nat Ment Health;2026;4(2):255-262.

Suicidality is increased among middle-aged and older autistic adults, but little is known about the underlying factors linking autism with suicidality in midlife and older age. Here we report a cross-sectional observational study of 9,979 adults (76% female) aged 50+ years who completed questionnaires measuring autistic traits, current mental health, social connections and suicidality (suicidal ideation and suicidal self-harm). We use path analysis to explore the relationship between autistic traits and suicidality and the mediating effects of current mental health, social connectedness and male/female sex. Our results find that depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), loneliness and social isolation all significantly mediate the relationship between autistic traits and suicidal ideation, with small effect sizes. For suicidal self-harm, male sex, depression, PTSD and social isolation were found to be mediators. We conclude that mental health difficulties and social isolation mediate higher rates of suicidality in 50+-year-olds with high autistic traits. Targeted and individually tailored interventions for people on the autism spectrum across the lifespan are important.

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16. Roisenberg BB, Boulton KA, Thomas EE, Guastella AJ. Does Camouflaging Predict Functioning, Distress, and Quality of Life for Autistic Adults?. Autism Res;2026 (Feb 12):e70199.

It has been proposed that autistic individuals adopt camouflaging strategies to mask their autistic traits and conform to social norms, and that these camouflaging strategies have been linked to adverse mental health outcomes. This study examined whether camouflaging, measured by the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), predicted functioning, distress, and quality of life beyond standard clinical measures of social responsiveness and social anxiety. We analysed data from 113 autistic adults experiencing social anxiety who expressed interest in anxiety interventions. Hierarchical regression analyses assessed the unique contribution of camouflaging after accounting for social responsiveness and social anxiety. Results indicated that social responsiveness and social anxiety significantly predicted depression, psychological distress, and disability, whereas camouflaging did not explain additional variance in these outcomes. Although camouflaging correlated with poorer mental health and reduced quality of life, it did not independently predict these outcomes beyond social anxiety and responsiveness. These findings suggest current camouflaging measures may capture overlapping constructs, highlighting the need for more precise conceptualization and measurement tools. Some autistic people use “camouflaging” strategies to hide their autistic traits to fit in with social expectations. While this can sometimes help them get through social situations, research has shown that camouflaging is linked to negative mental health outcomes, such as higher stress, anxiety, and depression. What remains unclear is whether camouflaging itself predicts poor mental health, or whether these difficulties are already explained by other factors, such as social anxiety or social responsiveness (the way people respond to social cues). In this study, 113 autistic adults who experienced social anxiety and were interested in anxiety treatments completed questionnaires about camouflaging, social responsiveness, social anxiety, and mental health. The researchers used statistical methods (hierarchical regression analyses) to test whether camouflaging added any unique explanation of poor mental health outcomes, such as depression, psychological distress, disability, and quality of life, beyond what was already explained by social anxiety and social responsiveness. The results showed that social anxiety and social responsiveness were strong predictors of depression, distress, and disability. Camouflaging was related to these outcomes, but it did not explain the additional differences once social anxiety and responsiveness were considered. This suggests that current tools used to measure camouflaging may overlap with what is already being measured by social anxiety and responsiveness questionnaires. More refined ways of assessing camouflaging are needed to better understand its specific impact on autistic people’s well‐being. eng

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17. Salem HA, Rizk NI, AbdelSalam MH, Ahmed R, Atteia HH, Hamdan AME, Alghamdi AA, Alghusn MA, Alatawi RA, Atallah RA, Alfuhaymani MM, Alqahtani HA, Abu-Elfotuh K. Therapeutic effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, thymol and their combination against neurotoxicity in propionic acid (PA)-induced autistic rats: insights into the role of the Nrf2/HO-1, Wnt3/β-catenin/GSK3β BDNF/p-TrkB/CREB, pI3K/Akt/mTOR, AMPK/SIRT-1, and PERK/CHOP/Bcl-2 pathways. Front Pharmacol;2025;16:1728908.

BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease characterized by repetitive behaviors and a lack of social communication. The role of probiotics, phytochemicals and their combination phytochemicals as treatment options for ASD is still under study. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the associated molecular pathways and explore the impact of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus), thymol (Thy) and their combination on propionic acid (PA)-induced ASD rats. METHODS: Fifty 3-week-old male albino rat pups were randomly distributed into five groups. The groups included a control group, a PA-induced ASD group, in which PA (250 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered for 3 days, and three other groups that received PA (250 mg/kg, p.o.) for 3 days along with either L. rhamnosus (1 × 10^6 CFU/day, p.o), Thy (30 mg/kg/day, p.o), or both. Brain tissues were collected for biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical studies following behavioral evaluations. RESULTS: Compared with the group administered only PA, treatment with L. rhamnosus, Thy and their combination significantly improved the neurobehavioral deficits in the autistic group. Improvements were observed in tests assessing memory consolidation, learning capacity, attention, spatial memory, locomotor activity, and contextual information processing. In addition to histopathological improvements, L. rhamnosus, Thy and their combination demonstrated notable ameliorative effects on PA-induced abnormalities in brain neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy biomarkers. Furthermore, treatment with L. rhamnosus, Thy and their combination improved abnormalities in the tested biomarkers and modulated associated pathways, including significant upregulation of BDNF, TrkB, CREB, Nrf2, and HO-1 content and downregulation of TLR4/NF-κB-mediated neuroinflammation, leading to substantial improvements in ASD symptoms. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that L. rhamnosus, Thy and their combination have promising therapeutic potentials in alleviating biochemical and behavioral deficits in PA-induced autism. These effects may be mediated by halting apoptosis, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, inducing autophagy, and improving different biomarkers and modulation pathways, such as Wnt3/β-catenin/GSK3β, pI3K/p-Akt/mTOR, and BDNF/p-TrkB/CREB.

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18. Shi Y, Chen S, Zhang X, Yang Y, Chen A, Sun Y, Chen X, Zhao S, Zhu T, Qiao W, Fan L, Wu L. Sphingosine-1-phosphate drives astrocyte pyroptosis via activation of NLRC4 inflammasome in autism spectrum disorder. Brain Behav Immun;2026 (Feb 13):106482.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and cognitive functioning. Emerging evidence suggests that abnormal neuroinflammatory responses play a critical role in ASD pathogenesis. Our previous research studies have shown significantly elevated serum levels of Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in ASD patients, which correlate with clinical phenotypes. Given the key role of S1P in glial cells, we investigated its involvement in pyroptosis-related neuroinflammatory pathways. Mendelian randomization analysis revealed a genetic link between the pyroptosis-associated regulator CD122 and ASD risk. Consistent with this focus, blood samples from ASD patients showed elevated levels of key pyroptotic executioners (Caspase-1, GSDMD) and their downstream pro-inflammatory products (IL-1β, IL-18), confirming enhanced pyroptotic activity. In the BTBR mouse model, a validated ASD model, astrocytes exhibited increased expression of pyroptosis-related proteins and inflammatory cytokines, which were reversed following S1P depletion. Furthermore, hippocampal injection of S1P in wild-type mice induced astrocytic pyroptosis, confirming its direct pro-inflammatory effect. Mechanistic investigations identified NLRC4 as a key inflammasome component upregulated in astrocytes of BTBR mice. Suppression of Nlrc4 ameliorated cognitive deficits and social impairments in BTBR mice. Using astrocyte-specific Nlrc4 knockout models and in vitro assays, we demonstrated that S1P promotes astrocytic pyroptosis through NLRC4 activation, with ERK signaling identified as a critical downstream mediator in this process. These findings reveal a novel S1P-NLRC4-pyroptosis signaling axis in astrocytes that contributes to ASD-associated neuroinflammation, providing a potential molecular basis for targeted clinical intervention.

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19. Talge NM, Keim SA, Yisahak SF, Findlen UM, Bechtold LK, Ingersoll B. Deafness and Hearing Problems and Their Association With Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Symptoms. J Dev Behav Pediatr;2026 (Jan-Feb 01);47(1):e26-e32.

OBJECTIVE: Problems with hearing feature prominently in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but remain poorly characterized within population-based samples and according to symptom heterogeneity. METHOD: We analyzed cross-sectional, caregiver-reported data from the National Survey of Children’s Health (2016-2020). Our US-based sample included children with data on the presence/absence of « deafness or problems with hearing » (DPHs) and ASD (ages 3-17 years; n = 150,327). We used weighted logistic regression to examine the association between DPHs and (1) ASD diagnosis (no, yes), (2) ASD symptom severity (none, mild, moderate/severe), and (3) co-occurrences of ASD with intellectual disability (ID) (neither, ASD only, ID only, both) or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (neither, ADHD only, ADHD only, both). We also assessed effect modification by sex and preterm birth. RESULTS: Deafness or problems with hearing were associated with greater odds of ASD (OR = 2.7; 95% CI, 1.8-3.9), with 4% of children with ASD having DPHs versus 1% of children without ASD. Associations were stronger for: moderate/severe ASD symptoms (OR = 3.5; 95% CI, 2.1-5.7) versus mild symptoms (OR = 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1-3.1); children with co-occurring ID (OR = 5.0; 95% CI, 2.8-9.0) or ID only (OR = 8.6; 95% CI, 6.0-12.4); and children with co-occurring ADHD (OR = 4.3; 95% CI, 2.5-7.2) than for ASD only. Findings persisted after adjustment and were stronger for females versus males but were not modified by preterm birth. CONCLUSION: Deafness or problems with hearing are associated with ASD, particularly-though not exclusively among children with more severe symptoms and co-occurring ID. Future research is needed to determine whether DPHs in ASD are driven by sensory, cognitive, and/or motivational processes or residual confounding (e.g., congenital anomalies).

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20. Yuan B, Xiang X, Yang T, Lin F, Yan J, Tong B, Li T, Chen J. Prenatally elevated glucocorticoid disrupts social behavior via GR-Id3/E47-dependent astroglial dysfunction in LPS-induced autism-like rats. Biochem Pharmacol;2026 (Feb 10);247:117784.

Maternal infection during pregnancy may contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, however, the precise mechanisms disrupting fetal neurodevelopment remain unclear. By integrating human cohort analyses with experimental models, this study identifies prenatal infection as a significant maternal risk factor associated with elevated glucocorticoid (GC) exposure in offspring. In animal model, maternal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure induced fetal GC surges, leading to GC receptor (GR)-dependent upregulation of inhibitor of DNA binding 3(Id3). Elevated Id3 formed complexes with E47, impairing its suppression of the astrocytic gene S100b and promoting aberrant astroglial differentiation. This astrocytic dysfunction disrupted synaptic glutamate/GABA homeostasis, resulting in core autistic-like behavioral phenotypes. Importantly, prenatal pharmacologic inhibition of GR signaling or downregulation of Id3 rescued Id3-E47 functional equilibrium, normalized astrocytic differentiation, and attenuated behavioral deficits. Our findings establish the GC-GR-Id3/E47 pathway as a mechanistic link between prenatal environmental insults and neurodevelopmental pathology, providing novel etiological insights into an ASD subtype of gestational infection.

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