Intranasal Oxytocin's Neural Effects on Face Processing and Inhibition in Autistic Adults Explored by fMRI

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors. A core challenge for individuals with ASD is processing social cues, particularly facial expressions, and difficulties with response inhibition. Current interventions often target behavioral symptoms, but pharmacological approaches exploring underlying neural mechanisms are emerging. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide involved in social bonding and trust, has shown promise in modulating social cognition, making it a candidate for improving these specific challenges in ASD. This study aims to elucidate its neural effects.

This randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study investigated the effects of intranasal oxytocin on neural activity in autistic adults. Participants received either placebo or oxytocin via intranasal spray 50 minutes prior to fMRI scanning. On the first visit, participants received placebo, and on the second, oxytocin. The primary endpoints were changes in neural responses, assessed by fMRI, during tasks involving affective scenes (to evaluate face processing) and response inhibition. Blood oxytocin concentrations were also measured before and 30 minutes post-treatment.

The provided abstract details the study design and primary outcomes but does not present any specific results or findings regarding the effects of oxytocin on neural responses, face processing, or response inhibition in autistic adults. Therefore, no quantitative data, p-values, or specific neural activation changes can be reported from this abstract.