ABSTRACT
Synaptic dysplasia induced by gene mutation is one of the most important mechanisms of the development of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).Based on in-depth studies of ASD patients and model organisms,a number of causative genes and signaling pathways have been identified,which have been demonstrated to play crucial roles in the synaptic development and cognitive function in the brain.However,the underlying neural mechanisms of the development of ASD and synaptic dysplasia merit further investigation.Given the latest rapid advances in research on ASD in recent years,we overview and summarize the linkages and potential neural mechanisms about the synaptic dysplasia and ASD in the current review,which focuses on the related crucial molecules,signaling pathways,brain circuits and therapeutic targets in ASD clinical trials in recent years.This review is intended to deepen the understanding of the pathogenesis of neural mechanisms of ASD,and provide new ideas for development of new drugs,prevention and therapy of ASD patients in clinic.