Neurochemistry of Autism.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by presence of social deficits, language abnormalities, stereotypies, and repetitive behavior. Brain pathology is extensive, suggesting widespread dysfunction of neurotransmitter systems. Genetic, biochemical, and gene association studies have shown that a number of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, GABA and glutamate, and acetylcholine contribute to the pathology of autism. Pharmacological treatment of autism has focused on reduction of symptoms and atypical antipsychotics, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anticonvulsants have been shown to successfully reduce many symptoms of autism. In this review we discuss the contributions of neurotransmitter systems to the pathology of autism and pharmacological treatment of autistic symptoms associated with neurochemical dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]