 Imagine a universe of minds, each vibrant and unique, yet some navigating the world with different maps. Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is like one of those maps influencing how individuals experience and interact with the world around them, with rising diagnoses and widespread misinformation unraveling the complexities of ASD can feel overwhelming. In the next 60 seconds, we will embark on a journey to unpack the mysteries of ASD, what factors contribute to ASD, we'll delve into research and understand the potential causes without perpetuating harmful stereotypes. 1. Genes and mutations. Researchers have identified hundreds of genes associated with ASD. These genes, often working in combination, influence brain development and neurotransmitter functions, impacting communication, social interaction, and sensory processing.