The Role of CNTNAP2 in Itch Sensation

Itch is a hallmark symptom associated with atopic dermatitis (AD), which is an allergic disorder accentuated by both immunological dysregulation and epidermal barrier defect (Wahlgren, 1991). Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental conditions that cause a variety of phenotypes, including impaired social communication, stereotyped behaviors, and altered sensory processing (Dawes et al., 2018; Vahia, 2013). A longitudinal study and a systemic review reveal an association between early AD and subsequent ASD (Lee et al., 2016; Tongo et al., 2015), but how itch is regulated in individuals with ASD remains unknown.