In this episode, we discuss the connections between autism and eye movements, starting with the underappreciated role of eyes in human biology. We emphasize the significance of the retina, which is central to both image-forming and non-image-forming functions of vision. The discussion takes a turn towards how blind individuals also leverage their eyes for biological functions beyond sight, highlighting the pervasive influence of visual systems on human physiology. We explore the superior colliculus, an essential brain region that integrates sensory information from various sources, including vision, to direct our attention and reflexive responses. This area is crucial in understanding how sensory input differently, particularly in terms of attention bias and threat detection, which could explain some of the unique sensory experiences in Autism.

We then touch upon the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and the roles in error detection, conflict monitoring, and effort evaluation. The dACC's involvement in these cognitive processes can provide insights into why certain social cues or environmental stimuli might be overwhelming or less salient for individuals on the spectrum. Additionally, the episode covers oxytocin, a hormone/neuropeptide involved in social bonding and emotional regulation, discussing its synthesis through magnocellular and parvocellular pathways in vision.

What do you think oxytocin is doing here, for the cub and for you? https://www.reddit.com/r/NatureIsFuckingLit/comments/11q03yn/a_cub_puma_admiring_his_mother/?rdt=64743

Eye-Tracking as an Early Biomarker of Autism https://youtu.be/fJpIRHOZZO4

The Roles of Oxytocin and Vasopressin in the Autistic phenotype https://youtu.be/DAtmC-s1_e0

Mesencephalon https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midbrain#:~:text=The%20midbrain%20or%20mesencephalon%20is,view%20of%20one%20cerebellar%20hemisphere.

00:00 - Introduction to Autism and Eye Movements; importance of eyes in biology, specifically mentioning the retina as a key player.

04:19 - Non-Image Functions and Master Clock; Melanopsin; SCN- master clock

08:13 - Eye Tracking and Autism Diagnosis; effectiveness at 14 months of age

12:23 - Biological Underpinnings of Eye Movements in Autism; dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), Superior Colliculus & Mesencephalon & sensory integration, attention in the context of Autism & brain development

16:48 - Sensory Integration & Superior Colliculus and Reflexive Responses & Biasing Attention.

20:58 - Developmental Aspects of Autism; embryonic stage before the central nervous system

25:11 - Vision and Autonomic Nervous Systemvision and breathing can influence stress and calmness & bidirectional connections

27:47 Reviews/Ratings and Contact Information

X: https://x.com/rps47586

Hopp: https://www.hopp.bio/fromthespectrum

YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGxEzLKXkjppo3nqmpXpzuA

email: [email protected]