Fetal Testosterone in Mind: Implications for Autism

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) are strongly biased towards males, with a male:female ratio of 4:1 for classic autism and over 10:1 for Asperger syndrome. The cause of the observed sex difference in ASC remains a topic of debate. The Extreme Male Brain (EMB) theory proposes that autism is an exaggeration of typical sex differences in empathizing and systemizing. Here we review evidence that levels of prenatal androgens (particularly testosterone) lead to masculinization of the brain and play a role in empathy, systemizing, and autistic traits. Evidence that elevated testosterone levels may be a risk factor for ASC is discussed.