Final answer:
Autistic patients' brains process information uniquely due to differences in neural connectivity and synaptic pruning. The broad spectrum of autism involves various challenges and abilities, and research has debunked the myth linking vaccines to autism. Studies of neuronal cultures from autistic individuals indicate potential differences in synaptic growth that could affect brain function in vivo.
Step-by-step explanation:
The brains of autistic patients are understood to process information differently when compared to individuals without autism. The causes of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), except for genetic forms like Fragile X and Rett's Syndrome, are not well understood. However, it is known that there can be gene variants and multiple mutations across several genes that may contribute to the development of ASD. At a basic level, ASD is considered to be a condition of atypical neural connectivity or 'incorrect wiring.' This may result in less synaptic pruning in the brains of some autistic patients, potentially leading to a denser network of neural connections.
Research on stem cells from fathers without autism and their sons with autism suggests that neuron cultures from sons display faster and denser growth of synapses. If such accelerated growth occurs in vivo, it could have implications for how information is integrated in the brain, which might affect cognitive and social functions. Furthermore, it is important to note the diversity within the spectrum of autism, where patients may experience a wide range of abilities and challenges, from issues with social interaction and empathy to unique language use and show a variety of repetitive behaviors.
It's also critical to dispel myths surrounding autism, particularly the discredited theory linking vaccines to the disorder. Studies have shown no causal connection between vaccinations and autism.