To ensure the consistency of its support for autism research, the Autism Foundation presents the following hypotheses regarding the etiology of autism spectrum disorders

Based on genetic susceptibility, autism could be triggered by an immune and/or toxicological event occurring before or after birth, and would then be worsened by microbial infections.

This etiological model is merely a working hypothesis, currently supported by the state of scientific research. Its scientific relevance must be continuously re-evaluated in light of the latest studies.