Neuronal migration from the center of the brain to the outer cortex plays a large factor brain development. Environmental factors such as radiation or drugs can alter the way these neurons migrate and lead to such abnormalities as schizophrenia and epilepsy. By tracking the path of normal neuron migration, scientists can compare this to abnormal paths and perhaps discover the reasons that lie behind these disorders. Autism Society of America. Autism has a large impact on normal brain development, especially in areas such as communication skills and social interaction.
Autism varies greatly between individuals and is therefore regarded as a spectrum disorder.
There is no single known cause, but current research suggests that autism is linked to biological or neurological differences in the brain. Choose Better Human Genes. The Center for Bioethics. Studies of identical and fraternal twins, as well as studies of children who were adopted portray the great influence that genes have on human characteristics. Since genetics determines what a child will be like, good genes are the wise choice.