Understanding the Underpinnings of Sensory Hypersensitivity in SCN2A-Associated Autism

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2024/understanding-the-underpinnings-of-sensory-hypersensitivity-in-scn2a-associated-autism?utm_campaign=ASDmonth24&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govd Understanding the Underpinnings of Sensory Hypersensitivity in SCN2A-Associated Autism People who experience sensory hypersensitivity have a heightened awareness of and reactivity to sensory stimuli, such as sound, sight, touch, and taste. Sensory hypersensitivity is a symptom often associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as more than 90% of children who have ASD experience this sensory challenge. Researchers examining the neural underpinnings of sensory hypersensitivity have often focused on the role of the forebrain—an area in the front of the brain involved in processing sensory stimuli and regulating behaviors and emotions. However, new research suggests that brain circuitry that supports sensory reflexes—which occur at a much earlier stage of sensory processing—could also be contributing to this sensitivity.