Between 50 and 80% of children with ASD have sleep disturbances. These problems increase parental stress and negatively impact the family's quality of life.
Studies have also suggested that sleep disturbances may also increase behavioral problems in ASD. Three possible etiological explanations for sleep disturbances in ASD are discussed here: neurobiological alterations, genetic mutations, and disrupted sleep architecture can all cause sleep problems in ASD. It also discusses how sleep problems may be a direct result of ASD. In addition to describing psychiatric comorbidities in ASD.
Disturbed expression of neurotransmitters (serotonin, melatonin and GABA) described in the cause of ASD, are also implicated in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. Serotonergic dysregulation is reported in ASD and the impairment of the circadian rhythm may affect brain development. Furthermore, the expression of specific molecules involved in the etiology of ASD (neuroxin and neuroligin) may be due to the dysregulation of the circadian rhythm during the critical period of neuronal plasticity. Several studies have also described an abnormal regulation of melatonin in ASD.
Year: 2018
Nationality: USA, Italy
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