EEG Biomarkers for Autism: Rational, Support, and the Qualification Process

Abstract

In this chapter, we highlight the advantages, progress, and pending challenges of developing electroencephalography (EEG) and event-related potential (ERP) biomarkers for use in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We describe reasons why global efforts towards precision treatment in ASD are utilizing EEG indices to quantify biological mechanisms. We overview common sensory processing and attention biomarkers and provide translational examples examining the genetic etiology of autism across animal models and human subgroups. We describe human-specific social biomarkers related to face perception, a complex social cognitive process that may prove informative of autistic social behaviors. Lastly, we discuss outstanding considerations for quantifying EEG biomarkers, the challenges associated with rigor and reproducibility, contexts of future use, and propose opportunities for combinatory multidimensional biomarkers.

Keywords: Biomarkers of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); Electroencephalography (EEG); Event-related potentials (ERP); Face perception; Sensory processing.