The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) often shows atypical function in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), contributing to sensory processing challenges.
## Key Findings
Children with ASD frequently exhibit increased VOR gain, where eye velocity overcompensates head velocity, suggesting reduced cerebellar inhibition on brainstem pathways. This leads to rigid or hypersensitive responses, impairing gaze stabilization during motion.
## Genetic Links
Variants like SCN2A are associated with an "overboard" VOR in autistic children, measurable via simple eye-tracking; mouse models confirm overly precise compensation but poor adaptability. Some studies note dysrhythmic nystagmus patterns, indicating cerebellum-brainstem circuit differences.
## Clinical Implications
These VOR alterations may serve as early biomarkers for ASD diagnosis using non-invasive tests like rotation chairs or helmets. Vestibular dysfunction links to stimming behaviors and balance issues, with targeted exercises showing promise in rehabilitation trials. High-functioning ASD cases sometimes show preserved tilt-suppression, suggesting spared caudal cerebellar regions.
