Despite research, a definitive cause has not been found yet for Asperger's Syndrome (AS). Experts and researchers are still studying the syndrome.

There may be multiple causes, but more studies are needed in order to determine what they may be. However, it is clear that Asperger's Syndrome is a neurobiological disorder. 
Individuals with AS appear to have some affected areas of functional brain systems. Some neuroanatomical studies and the evidence of certain cases of teratogen exposure during fetal development suggest a connection with some kind of alteration of brain function in the neural circuits. These control individual's thought pattern and behavior.

There has been one study that showed there is an activation delay in the core circuit for imitation in those who suffer from AS. This study, "Abnormal imitation-related cortical activation sequences in Asperger's Syndrome" was conducted and reported on by Nishitani N, Avikainen S, Hari R in 2004.

Other studies are focused on establishing links between AS and serotonin dysfunction or cerebellar dysfunction.

There does seem to be a genetic link as many family members have behavioral symptoms similar to AS. For example individuals in the family tree who have been know to be eccentric or odd. Research points to the probability that all autism spectrum disorders have shared genetic mechanisms, with those suffering from AS having stronger genetic components than those who were diagnosed with autism.

Some studies indicate that Asperger's Syndrome (AS) is associated with other mental disorders like depression and bipolar disorder.

Environmental factors are also being studied on their possible role on the development of Asperger's Syndrome. There have been a few studied cases where there has been an exposure to teratogens (agents that cause birth defects) during the first few weeks following conception. There is also some theory on environmental factors but this has not been confirmed by scientific studies.

On the other hand, it has already been proven that AS is not caused by emotional deprivation or bad parenting.

By Kelly Brooke

What is known is that autism is a neurological abnormality but what causes this to happen remains a mystery. Extensive research has shown in many cases that a strong genetic component is constant. However, most likely other environmental, metabolic and immunology factors contribute to the development of autism. Most researchers and scientists do not suspect that one single gene responsible. Most believe that a number of different genes that when molded together increase the risk.

Research shows that development of autism in some children was linked to underlying medical conditions. For example, metabolic disorders, congenital infections, neurological disorders developed after birth may contribute to development of autism. However, these conditions alone do not cause autism nor do all children who have these conditions have autism. In addition environmental factors may interact with genetics and cause an increased risk of autism in some people.

Heredity comprises about 90% of the belief of what causes autism. The genetics of how or what genes are responsible is complex and unclear and no determinations have been made.

Some theories have been rejected. For a time, some believed that emotional trauma or bad parenting was to blame. Many also believe that there was a link to vaccines and autism. However, recent studies on the subject do not suggest such a link.

The bottom line is that no one truly knows that causes this condition to exist. Even the experts who feel development is a combination of genetics and environment do not have a definite answer. Awareness continues to become more prevalent and interest and funding is increasing, so better and new information should become available and perhaps the terribly frustrating uncertainty will dissipate.

Nothing is simple regarding autism. The only constant is that the research done thus far indicates that further research is necessary. It also has not stopped those who believe what they believe. One way or another, as with many other things, it comes down to blame. In this case, the blame has yet to be determined.

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