In essence, while distinct clinically, autism and schizophrenia are increasingly seen as related neurodevelopmental conditions stemming from common underlying biological processes and genetic risks.
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Theres loads of similarities genetically, environmentally and symptoms
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recent research strongly suggests autism (ASD) and schizophrenia share common genetic and environmental origins
, pointing to overlapping risk factors and biological pathways, rather than being entirely separate conditions, with shared genetic variations and prenatal inflammation potentially affecting neurodevelopment in both. This indicates a shared underlying “root” for some cases, with variations in genetic risk or inflammatory timing leading to different diagnoses, challenging old views that they were unrelated.
Evidence for Shared Origins:
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Genetic Overlap: Genome-wide studies find common genetic risk variants (like copy number variations or specific genes such as SHANK3) linked to both ASD and schizophrenia, suggesting shared DNA predispositions.
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Shared Biological Pathways: Both disorders involve disruptions in similar brain functions, particularly in synaptic proteins and neurotransmission (like N-methyl-D-aspartate signaling).
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Prenatal Factors: Early life inflammation, often from infections, may alter neurodevelopment, contributing to both conditions, though persistent inflammation might lean towards autism and latent inflammation towards schizophrenia.
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Diagnostic Overlap: Some individuals with specific genetic syndromes (like 22q11.2 deletion syndrome) can develop either autism or psychosis, highlighting a shared genetic vulnerability.
Key Idea: A Spectrum of Risk
Think of it less as two distinct boxes and more as overlapping spectrums:
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Shared Genetic “Ingredients”: Many genetic risk factors increase the likelihood of developing either ASD or schizophrenia.
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Different “Recipes”: The specific combination of genetic variations, environmental influences (like prenatal stress), and developmental timing likely determines whether a person develops autism, schizophrenia, or potentially traits of both.
In essence, while distinct clinically, autism and schizophrenia are increasingly seen as related neurodevelopmental conditions stemming from common underlying biological processes and genetic risks.
Genetic Overlap Among
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yea ive read that some scientists view it as a spectrum
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I think i’ll just say im autistic if anyone asks
Its more socially accepted
And i come across as socially awkward etc so a stranger wouldnt know
I’m SZ but not autistic at all. Must be on one far end of the spectrum.
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Right, i have a lot in common with my neice whos got autism. Obviously im not autistic
But things like social awkwardness, and sensory issues i struggle reading people too
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Yeah there are some overlap in symptoms. Personally I don’t have any issues with socializing, but some do have a bigger overlap than others.
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Thanks for posting that information @Ducky
That was helpful
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