Receptive language organization in high-functioning autism.
One of the core defining components of autism is impairment in communication, typically manifested as a delay in speech development. To date, neuroimaging studies have shed limited light on the mechanisms behind delay in speech development in autism. We performed magnetoencephalographic-based auditory language mapping in 2 cases of high-functioning autism. Overall, 2 distinct characteristics were found, such as the use of atypical language pathways and cortical hyperexcitability. These neurophysiological findings parallel those reported in 2 other developmental disorders, developmental dyslexia and Rett syndrome. We discuss common mechanisms that may account for cognitive delays across these developmental disorders.
Frye
Richard E
RE
Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. Richard.E.Frye@uth.tmc.edu
Beauchamp
Michael S
MS
D000161:Acoustic Stimulation; D000293:Adolescent; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001931:Brain Mapping; D002648:Child; D005072:Evoked Potentials, Auditory; D007839:Functional Laterality / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D015225:Magnetoencephalography; D008297:Male; D013067:Speech Perception / Q000502:physiology