Zrcalni nevronski sistem in njegova vloga pri klinični prezentaciji motnje avtističnega spektra : pregled temeljnih in sodobnih ugotovitev
The mirror neuron system and its role in the clinical presentation of autism spectrum disorder : a review of foundational and contemporary findings

slovenian

2024

volume 63, issue 4

Društvo Medicinski razgledi
(Obvezni izvod spletne publikacije)

Mirror neurons are neurons that trigger an action potential both while performing an action and while observing the same or similar action. Originally discovered in Macaca nemestrina monkeys, they were later also located in the human brain, specifically in the inferior frontal gyrus, dorsal premotor cortex, inferior parietal lobules, and in the cerebellum. Based on their location, it is inferred that their function is associated with the development of language, learning, imitation of emotions, and movements. Since the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder include language development disorders, difficulty understanding emotions, and repetitive motor movements, research on the neurological characteristics of autism also deals with the correlation between its symptoms and the activity of the mirror neuron system. Modern research includes functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography in addition to behavioral observation, and has discovered a positive correlation between altered mirror neuron activity and symptoms of autism. The aim of this review is to encompass both fundamental and contemporary findings on mirror neurons in autism and to identify possibilities for further research.

06.05.2025