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Asperger Syndrome Causes

Genetic and/or Environmental?


Ongoing research is being conducted to determine Asperger syndrome causes. This condition is among five pervasive developmental disorders that are very puzzling in nature.

Asperger syndrome causes have not been officially determined, but
there are ongoing studies that seek to find the sources of pervasive developmental disorders. These mysterious conditions seem to appear without rhyme or reason.

Research is in various areas, including environmental factors and genetic dispositions. The causes of pervasive developmental disorders are crucial to finding a possible cure for the conditions. Diligent work is being done in order to come to a sound conclusion.

What kind of research is being done currently?

  1. Current research on the causes of autism and related pervasive developmental disorders is uncovering some possible genetic predisposition to the syndromes. There seems to be a connection with other psychological conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and PDD syndromes.

  2. Mirror neurons are also being investigated. The mirror neurons are responsible for helping children learn through imitation. Children with autistic disorders like AS have deficits in the proper development of these neurons.

  3. Brain imaging is a current approach in the effort to find the causes of Aspergers. Individuals with AS have brains that are "wired" differently than neurotypical brains. This abnormality is
    most apparent in the frontal lobe.

How might environmental factors affect pervasive developmental disorders?

Some research is investigating the possibility of environmental factors in the development of conditions, such as Asperger syndrome.

  • Heavy metals are being investigated as possible contributors to autism. Some assert that MMR vaccines that contained a mercury-based preservative are to blame.

  • Environmental factors also include pollutants.
    • Mercury is expelled into the air through power plants.
    • This mercury travels through the air and winds up in water where
      it's absorbed by fish.
    • Fish that contain high levels of mercury are harmful to developing fetuses.
    • Expectant mothers should avoid large fish like salmon and
      tuna while pregnant.

    • No definitive link between mercury and autistic disorders has been made. To date, research in this area has been inconclusive.

    Does diet play a part in the autism spectrum of disorders?

    Speculations are that Asperger syndrome is caused by a reaction to certain foods. This food allergy results in the symptoms of autism and related pervasive developmental disorders. The main culprits are thought to be casein and gluten. Many families have adopted casein and gluten-free diets for their autistic children.

    Investigators are certain that these conditions are not caused by poor parenting or neglect! With the continuing research for Asperger syndrome causes, we remain hopeful that this will provide an
    answer in the near future.

    Return to "Causes of Aspergers Syndrome" from "Asperger Syndrome Causes"


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