EXPLAINABLE FUZZY–GENETIC MODELING OF SLEEP AND SENSORY DYSREGULATION IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: A FIVE-CONTINENT ANALYSIS OF OPEN-ACCESS PHYSIOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIORAL DATA

ABSTRACT Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication and interaction, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and atypical sensory processing. Increasing evidence indicates that sensory processing differences are not merely associated features of ASD but may significantly influence behavioral, cognitive, social, and daily functioning. Individuals with ASD may exhibit diverse sensory response patterns, including hyperresponsivity, hypo responsivity, and sensory seeking across visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, gustatory, proprioceptive, and interoceptive domains. These sensory differences have been associated with attention, anxiety, sleep disturbances, feeding difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and social functioning. Neurophysiological and neuroimaging studies suggest that sensory processing in ASD may involve alterations at both cortical and subcortical levels. Differences in sensory gating, habituation, multisensory integration, temporal processing, and the balance between cortical excitation and inhibition have been proposed as potential mechanisms underlying atypical sensory responses. GABAergic interneurons, thalamocortical connectivity, the oxytocinergic system, and neuroplasticity have also been investigated in relation to sensory dysfunction. However, the considerable heterogeneity of sensory profiles in ASD suggests that sensory processing differences cannot be explained by a single neurobiological mechanism. The significant impact of sensory processing differences on everyday functioning highlights the importance of early assessment and individualized intervention. Sensory-based occupational therapy and Ayres Sensory Integration approaches are among the interventions used to address sensory difficulties and improve functional participation. Nevertheless, the evidence regarding intervention effectiveness remains heterogeneous, emphasizing the need to consider individual sensory profiles, developmental characteristics, and functional needs when planning interventions. In conclusion, sensory processing differences represent an important dimension of the multidimensional nature of ASD. Further research should focus on identifying sensory subtypes, clarifying the relationships between neurobiological mechanisms and behavioral manifestations, and evaluating individualized interventions. A better understanding of sensory processing may contribute to improving quality of life, adaptive functioning, and participation in everyday activities among autistic individuals.