Somatosensory processing in neurodevelopmental disorders

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the role of somatosensory perception in typical development, its aberration in a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, and the potential relations between tactile processing abnormalities and central features of each disorder such as motor, communication, and social development. Neurodevelopmental disorders that represent a range of symptoms and etiologies, and for which multiple peer-reviewed articles on somatosensory differences have been published, were chosen to include in the review. Relevant studies in animal models, as well as conditions of early sensory deprivation, are also included. Somatosensory processing plays an important, yet often overlooked, role in typical development and is aberrant in various neurodevelopmental disorders. This is demonstrated in studies of behavior, sensory thresholds, neuroanatomy, and neurophysiology in samples of children with Fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and cerebral palsy (CP). Impaired somatosensory processing is found in a range of neurodevelopmental disorders and is associated with deficits in communication, motor ability, and social skills in these disorders. Given the central role of touch in early development, both experimental and clinical approaches should take into consideration the role of somatosensory processing in the etiology and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Effect of Prenatal Valproic Acid Exposure on Cortical Morphology in Female Mice

“…On the other hand, the somatosensory cortex has been implicated in the processing of social cues to motivation, emotion, and cognition, which finally links to social behaviors in human beings. Somatosensory processing impairment is found in a range of neurodevelopmental disorders including ASD and is associated with deficits in communication, motor ability, and social skills in these disorders (9). In animal studies, Tabuchi et al (10) showed that ASD-relevant neuroligin-3 mutation (R451C) knock-in mice exhibited a behavioral phenotype composed of social interaction deficits, increased spatial memory, and increased inhibitory synaptic transmission in the somatosensory cortex.…”

Extending the reach of social touch through haptic technology

“…Touch is the primary sense through which we express intimate emotions [21]. It is vitally important for the proper development of infants [81], and is a social adhesive that binds together those in a romantic relationship [170]. Touch has played a central role in history [101] and between different cultures its role is diverse [363].…”

“…Given the importance of touch in the early stages of life in mammals, the lack of touch (i.e. tactile deprivation) may indeed have had a profound negative impact on the development of these institutionalized children [See also 81].…”

Fragile X syndrome: A review of clinical management

“…Sensory processing and integration have major roles in human development (144). Individuals with FXS have an enhanced sympathetic response to sensory stimuli (145), and the feel of a potty-chair.…”