SCANNER

Background 

Autism is diagnosed approximately four times more often in males than in females. However, little is known about the biological mechanisms behind this disparity, or to what extent this overrepresentation in males is due to bias in the medical research that is also present during the diagnostic process. Historically, studies have largely excluded female participants and data have mostly been collected in males and generalised to females. This results in a major gap in our fundamental biological and clinical knowledge that translates to real-life disadvantages for females with neurodivergent conditions.

Clinical relevance

Because we often do not have sufficient data on what constitutes a symptom or a characteristic of a disease, condition or disorder in females, clinicians are more likely to regard behaviours presented by them as “atypical” compared with the symptoms that often affect males. This also often means that females are less likely to be referred for diagnostic tests and less likely to receive timely support, which can have long-lasting negative effects on quality of life. It is therefore imperative to include females in all levels of research.

Overall aim of SCANNER

When it comes to autism research, the gap in our knowledge regarding sex differences in autism significantly impedes development of diagnostic tests that are equally efficient for both males and females. In this project, we aim to understand how genetic, neurophysiological and behavioural sex differences contribute to the presence of autistic traits, and to distinguish these biological factors from potential diagnostic bias. Our long-term goal is to improve the diagnostic process for autism, as well as other neurodivergent conditions, by taking sex differences into account at all levels of research and diagnosis.

SCANNER Work Packages

In this project, we will focus on genetic, brain, and behavioral sex differences in neurodiverse individuals across the spectrum.

Importantly, as part of this project, we will partner important stake holders, including health care providers, stakeholder organizations, and more.

Internal collaborations

Department of Neuroscience
Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology

• Alexandra Badura
• Ryan Muetzel
• Dylan van der Waal