Short communication: Sex-linked differences in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are related to social functioning in autism spectrum disorder

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was utilized to investigate sex differences in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) between adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurotypical (NT) controls. GABA at the right superior temporal sulcus (STS) is reported for 12 ASD and 14 NT participants. The r...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Psychiatry research. Neuroimaging 2018-04, Vol.274, p.19-22
Main Authors: Kirkovski, Melissa, Suo, Chao, Enticott, Peter Gregory, Yücel, Murat, Fitzgerald, Paul Bernard
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Autism spectrum disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder - genetics
Autism Spectrum Disorder - psychology
Female
gamma-Aminobutyric Acid - genetics
Humans
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy - methods
Male
Sex Factors
Social Behavior
Superior temporal sulcus
Temporal Lobe - diagnostic imaging
Young Adult
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Summary:Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was utilized to investigate sex differences in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) between adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurotypical (NT) controls. GABA at the right superior temporal sulcus (STS) is reported for 12 ASD and 14 NT participants. The results show no group differences in GABA. There was, however, a significant positive association between GABA at the STS and autism-related social impairments in females with ASD. These findings provide preliminary support for sex differences in GABAergic distribution and processes that contribute to social functioning in ASD. •No differences in GABA at the right STS between adults with ASD and neurotypical NT controls.•Sex stratified data revealed no sex differences in GABA concertation at the STS between adults with ASD and NT controls.•GABA concentration in females with ASD was related to social impairments.
ISSN:0925-4927
1872-7506
DOI:10.1016/j.pscychresns.2018.02.004