Advances in research on gender differences in autism spectrum disorders

JIANG Tong-Tong; LI Xiu-Qiong; ZHAO Ting-Ting; LI Hong-Yu; TANG Qiang

doi:10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2411142

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Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics ›› 2025, Vol. 27 ›› Issue (4) : 480-486. DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2411142

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Advances in research on gender differences in autism spectrum disorders

JIANG Tong-Tong, LI Xiu-Qiong, ZHAO Ting-Ting, LI Hong-Yu, TANG Qiang

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Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social impairments, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. Studies have shown that it is more prevalent in males than females. Although this issue has attracted academic attention since the 20th century, the specific mechanisms underlying the gender differences in ASD remain unclear. This paper reviews the impact of gender differences in ASD, focusing on the female protective effect, DNA methylation, hormone levels, and clinical manifestations. It also discusses corresponding treatment options, particularly suggesting improvements in the diagnostic process, which is often overlooked, in order to provide valuable references for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of ASD.

Key words

Autism spectrum disorder / Gender difference / Female protective effect / Genetics / Hormone level / Epigenetics / DNA methylation

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JIANG Tong-Tong, LI Xiu-Qiong, ZHAO Ting-Ting, LI Hong-Yu, TANG Qiang. Advances in research on gender differences in autism spectrum disorders[J]. Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics. 2025, 27(4): 480-486 https://doi.org/10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2411142

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