Electrophysiological response during auditory gap detection: Biomarker for sensory and communication alterations in autism spectrum disorder?

Dev Neuropsychol. 2018;43(2):109-122. doi: 10.1080/87565641.2017.1365869.

Abstract

Sensory symptoms, including auditory processing deficits, are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Processing of temporal aspects of auditory input is understudied; yet, deficits in this domain could contribute to language-related impairments. In children with ASD and well-matched controls, this study examined electrophysiological response to silent gaps in auditory stimuli. Results revealed attenuated amplitude of the P2 event-related potential (ERP) component in ASD. The P2 amplitude reduction was also associated with sensory, language, and diagnostic features. These results suggest that neural response during auditory gap detection is a promising ASD biomarker that could be useful for stratifying subgroups and evaluating treatment response.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / complications*
  • Biomarkers / analysis*
  • Child
  • Communication
  • Electrophysiology / methods*
  • Evoked Potentials / physiology*
  • Evoked Potentials, Auditory, Brain Stem / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male

Substances

  • Biomarkers