UNDERSTANDING AUTISM: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF UNDERLYING MECHANISMS AND THE PHYTO-THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS

CHAITHANYA. P , Prof. Dr. Jyoti Harindran

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by significant deficits in social interaction, communication, and the presence of repetitive behaviors. First described by Leo Kanner in 1943, the modern understanding of ASD has evolved, and it is now formally classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The global prevalence of ASD is increasing, with estimates suggesting that 1 in 100 children worldwide are affected, although some researchers believe the true number may be higher. The etiology of ASD is multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Genetic studies have identified numerous mutations and gene complexes associated with neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neuronal connectivity. Brain imaging studies have revealed structural and functional abnormalities, including altered Wnt signaling, dysregulated neurotransmitter systems, and impaired synaptic function, all of which contribute to the complex neuropathology of ASD. Current conventional treatments for ASD are limited, with only a few FDA-approved drugs, such as risperidone and aripiprazole, which primarily manage symptomatic behaviors. This scarcity of effective treatments highlights a critical need for new therapeutic avenues. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying ASD, including altered signaling pathways like Wnt signaling, activity-dependent gene transcription, and synaptic dysfunction. Additionally, it explores the potential of complementary and alternative therapies, particularly phytochemicals and plant-derived compounds, for their anti-autistic properties. The review observes the therapeutic potential of nutraceuticals such as Omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, and carotenoids, and researches into specific plants like Ginkgo biloba, Zingiber officinale, Astragalus membranaceus, Centella asiatica, and Acorus calamus. By integrating the neurobiological mechanisms with the properties of these plant-based interventions, this review aims to expand the knowledge base on ASD and identify promising new horizons for treatment, while acknowledging the need for further research to substantiate their efficacy and safety.

Published Paper   E-Certificate

"UNDERSTANDING AUTISM: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF UNDERLYING MECHANISMS AND THE PHYTO-THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS", IJSDR - International Journal of Scientific Development and Research (www.IJSDR.org), ISSN:2455-2631, Vol.10, Issue 9, page no.a763-a778, September-2025, Available :https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2509092.pdf

Volume 10 Issue 9, September-2025

Pages : a763-a778

Paper Reg. ID: IJSDR_304956

Published Paper Id: IJSDR2509092

Downloads: 00067

Research Area: Pharmacy All

Country: Malappuram, Kerala, India

Published Paper PDF: https://ijsdr.org/papers/IJSDR2509092

Published Paper URL: https://ijsdr.org/viewpaperforall?paper=IJSDR2509092

ISSN: 2455-2631 | IMPACT FACTOR: 9.15 Calculated By Google Scholar | ESTD YEAR: 2016

An International Scholarly Open Access Journal, Peer-Reviewed, Refereed Journal Impact Factor 9.15 Calculate by Google Scholar and Semantic Scholar | AI-Powered Research Tool, Multidisciplinary, Monthly, Multilanguage Journal Indexing in All Major Database & Metadata, Citation Generator

Publisher: IJSDR(IJ Publication) Janvi Wave

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License and The Open Definition