title: GABA system dysfunction in autism and related disorders: from synapse to symptoms.
abstract: Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental syndromes characterised by repetitive behaviours and restricted interests, impairments in social behaviour and relations, and in language and communication. These symptoms are also observed in a number of developmental disorders of known origin, including Fragile X Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and Foetal Anticonvulsant Syndrome. While these conditions have diverse etiologies, and poorly understood pathologies, emerging evidence suggests that they may all be linked to dysfunction in particular aspects of GABAergic inhibitory signalling in the brain. We review evidence from genetics, molecular neurobiology and systems neuroscience relating to the role of GABA in these conditions. We conclude by discussing how these deficits may relate to the specific symptoms observed.
authors: King's College London, Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, United Kingdom.
authors: Suzanne
authors: S
authors: Coghlan
authors: Jamie
authors: J
authors: Horder
authors: Becky
authors: B
authors: Inkster
authors: M Andreina
authors: MA
authors: Mendez
authors: Declan G
authors: DG
authors: Murphy
authors: David J
authors: DJ
authors: Nutt
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005600:Fragile X Syndrome / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D059330:GABAergic Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology; D015518:Rett Syndrome / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D013569:Synapses / Q000378:metabolism*; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid