Sex Differences in the role of Additive Genetic Variants in Autism: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Autism shows a male-biased diagnostic sex ratio. Given the heritability of autism, genetic factors likely contribute to this ratio. This study systematically reviews sex differences in additive common genetic effects related to autism and autistic traits.

Methods

Original research was collected from PubMed, Web of Science, APA PsycInfo and Scopus (2008 - July 2025) following PRISMA guidelines. Genome wide association studies (GWASs) on autism, and related downstream analyses, including polygenic scores (PGS), Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) heritability, and genetic correlations were included when sex-stratified results were reported. Risk of bias was assessed, followed by a best-evidence synthesis.

Results

Of 6,053 records screened, 21 studies were eli

SUBMITTER: Sollie T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12755298 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature