Neural mechanisms of self-processing in autism: An ALE-based meta-analysis

Abstract

Self-processing in autism affects social interactions. By choosing 8 fMRI studies of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) self-processing, this study used ALE meta-analysis to investigate the brain underpinnings of self-processing in ASD. The findings revealed the following: (1) The capacity to make self-other distinctions and mirroring in social interactions is impacted by inadequate activation of brain areas of the mirror neuron system in ASD, which in turn impairs social interactions. (2) ASD activated more brain regions in self-processing than typically developing (TD) individuals. TD individuals exhibit activation in only one cluster during self-processing, while ASD individuals show activation in five distinct clusters. As shown by the fact that TD primarily activated the right frontal lobe when it came to self-processing, whereas ASD activated the limbic lobe, temporal lobe, hippocampus, amygdala, pontine gyrus, and a portion of the left frontal lobe. This study reveals the cognitive neural basis of autism's greater focus on the self. By clarifying these neurobiological disparities, we acquire a more profound comprehension of the processes that cause social disabilities in ASD. This insight could possibly guide the creation of focused treatments designed to enhance social performance and enhance the quality of life for those with ASD.