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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized primarily by deficits in social interaction and communication, along with restricted, repetitive behaviors and limited interests. These symptoms significantly impair children's social functioning and quality of life. ASD is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although the exact pathophysiology remains unclear, abnormalities have been observed in synaptic function across brain regions, white matter integrity, and neuroinflammatory processes. Early abnormal brain development may serve as a direct trigger for ASD, with neurotoxic substances, nutritional factors, metabolic byproducts, and neuroactive compounds potentially contributing to its onset and progression.

Currently, there are no effective treatments for the core symptoms of ASD. Traditional therapies include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), sensory integration training, music therapy, and play therapy. Emerging treatments involve cellular therapies, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and virtual reality–based interventions. Complementary approaches such as horticultural therapy, dietary interventions, and exercise therapy are also used. However, while these treatments are widely utilized, most have limited efficacy in improving the core symptoms of autism.

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