SEX DIFFERENCE IN GENETIC PROFILES IN PEOPLE WITH AUTISM

Abstract

In this literature review I will be looking at the sex differences in genetic profiles in individuals with Autism. I will be reviewing five different studies and looking at the knowledge they have provided but also critically assessing whether the knowledge gap between males and females still exists and if it does, to what extent. The studies I look at will be discussing Oxytocin levels, different genes that could be determining factors, and a female’s possible higher threshold as risk factors for the gap between males and females with Autism. Results will show that a female’s higher mutational burden threshold is a probable reason for the lower number of females diagnosed with Autism. They will also show that oxytocin levels could also be a cause of Autism along with other genes that could be risk factors. The diagnostic tools will also be discussed as reasons for why the knowledge gap regarding females with Autism exists. This discussion will then highlight what is known about Autism and what still needs to be done regarding our knowledge about females and males with Autism and how we could better the research in this area.