A new study published in Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has challenged a long-standing theory about why more males than females are diagnosed with autism and excel in science, technology,
A recent study published in the journal "Autism Research" suggests that reduced exposure to male hormones, specifically testosterone, in the womb might be linked to the development of autism-like traits in males. Researchers from the University of Cambridge analyzed data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), which included over 10,000 participants. They found that boys with lower levels of prenatal testosterone exhibited behaviors and traits commonly associated with autism, such as difficulties in social interaction and communication, repetitive behaviors, and a preference for routine. This study adds to the growing body of evidence exploring the prenatal origins of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), although the researchers caution that correlation does not imply causation, and further research is needed to understand the complex interplay of genetics, environment, and hormones in the development of autism.
Science & Technology
Fri, March 28, 2025
