LASR

Autism affects communication and social interactions, and flexibility of behavior. Difficulties with emotional regulation, cognition, and co-occurring medical conditions are also common. The conceptual framework that guides our work underscores the role of early development of systems for sensory and emotional processing and how these may “cascade” over developmental time to impact the complex array of traits in autism.

We use a combination of behavioral and neuroscience methods to learn more about sensation, perception, and emotion in autistic children, teens, and adults. We also study infants who have a higher-than-average likelihood of developing autism. Our methods include functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), psychophysics, observational measures, and electroencephalography (EEG). Many of our studies are focused specifically on sensory input from the skin (touch) and from within the body (interoception). These senses contribute to the sense of self, safety, social connection, and emotional regulation that can be impacted by autism.

We hope that learning more about the interaction of sensory and emotional processes in the brain will provide important clues to help us understand autism better, and that better understanding will lead to better lives for people on the spectrum and their families. We’re grateful to the families and individuals who volunteer their time in our research studies, as well as to current and past funding sources, including the National Institutes of Health and the Autism Science Foundation.