An international team of researchers has identified at least two biologically distinct forms of autism by examining how different regions of the brain communicate with one another. The findings could help advance more precise and personalized approaches to autism care and support.

The researchers found two recurring patterns of brain connectivity. In one group, known as the “hyperconnectivity” subtype, communication between brain regions was stronger than usual. In the other, called the “hypoconnectivity” subtype, communication was reduced.

Brain Connectivity Patterns Reveal Autism Subtypes
According to the research team, this work represents the first systematic attempt to interpret human brain imaging patterns (via fMRI) by tracing them back to underlying biological mechanisms identified in mouse models. By connecting specific brain connectivity patterns to particular biological pathways, the study provides a potential framework for future precision medicine strategies.

To investigate these relationships, the researchers analyzed functional connectivity in 20 mouse models and examined brain scans from 940 children and young adults with autism, along with scans from more than 1,000 neurotypical individuals.

The analysis uncovered two reproducible autism subtypes. The hypoconnectivity subtype was associated with synaptic pathways, while the hyperconnectivity subtype was linked to immune-related biological systems. Together, these two groups represented approximately 25% of the people with autism included in the study.