I wish he wasn’t such a dumbass because it’s a real phenomenon that needs investigated.

Most likely IMO is RCCX Theory.

The RCCX module is a complex, highly variable gene cluster on chromosome 6 within the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), a region crucial for immune function and hormone regulation. It includes genes like C4 (complement component 4), CYP21A2 (21-hydroxylase), TNXB (tenascin-X), and pseudogenes.

Hypothesized Mechanisms Linking RCCX to Autism

1.

Hormonal Dysregulation (Prenatal Androgen Exposure)

• The CYP21A2 gene encodes 21-hydroxylase, critical in cortisol and aldosterone synthesis.
• Mutations or variations can lead to Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) or milder forms of hormonal imbalance.
• This results in elevated prenatal androgen exposure, linked to autistic traits via the “Extreme Male Brain” theory proposed by Simon Baron-Cohen.

2.

Immune System Dysregulation

• The C4 gene is vital for the complement cascade, involved in synaptic pruning during brain development.
• Variants leading to C4 overexpression or underexpression could disrupt normal synapse elimination, contributing to aberrant neural connectivity, a hallmark of autism.

3.

Structural and Connective Tissue Abnormalities

• The TNXB gene affects connective tissue integrity.
• Variants are associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hypermobility type), which has a comorbidity with autism.
• Connective tissue dysfunction could contribute to sensory processing issues often seen in autistic individuals.

4.

Genetic Instability and Copy Number Variations (CNVs)

• The RCCX module is prone to unequal crossover events during meiosis, leading to CNVs.
• These CNVs can disrupt gene dosage balance for C4, CYP21A2, and TNXB, increasing susceptibility to neurodevelopmental disorders.

5.

Stress Axis Dysregulation (HPA Axis)

• Disruption in cortisol production affects the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, altering the stress response.
• Early-life dysregulated stress responses are frequently observed in autistic children.

Summary Table