The Role of Oxytocin in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current Evidence and Therapeutic Implications

Abstract

Oxytocin (OXT) is a neuropeptide implicated in social functioning, with potential therapeutic relevance in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This review synthesizes current literature on OXT’s effects in ASD, focusing on clinical trials, neurobiological mechanisms, and future directions. Studies highlight OXT’s immediate impact on social cognition in typically developing adults and its variable outcomes in children with ASD. Neuroimaging findings elucidate OXT’s effects on brain networks involved in social-emotional processing. Challenges, including individual variability and translational gaps, underscore the crucial role of personalized approaches in OXT research. Combining OXT with behavior therapy and probiotics shows promise. Future research should address gender differences, genetic influences, and long-term outcomes, emphasizing the importance of personalized approaches in OXT-based therapies.