Despite the great array of observations, the etiopathogenesis of the autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is poorly defined. Our review offers evidence that most heterogeneous symptoms of ASD might have a common set of pathophysiological events at cellular level closely connected with dysregulation of gluta-matergic neurotransmission in the brain with excitotoxicity as a common underlying mechanism. The suggested unifying hypothesis offers the means for efficient prevention and amelioration of ASD.

        Key words: autism, excitotoxicity, glutamatergic neurotransmission, excitatory amino acids.