Preserved navigation abilities and spatio‐temporal memory in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Cerebellar abnormalities have been reported in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Beyond its role in hallmark features of ASD, the cerebellum and its connectivity with forebrain structures also play a role in navigation. However, the current understanding of navigation abilities in ASD is equivocal, as is the impact of the disorder on the functional anatomy of the cerebellum. In the present study, we investigated the navigation behavior of a population of ASD and typically developing (TD) adults related to their brain anatomy as assessed by structural and functional MRI at rest. We used the Starmaze task, which permits assessing and distinguishing two complex navigation behaviors, one based on allocentric learning and the other on egocentric learning of a route with multiple decision points. Compared to TD controls, individuals with ASD showed similar exploration, learning, and strategy performance and preference. In addition, there was no difference in the structural or functional anatomy of the cerebellar circuits involved in navigation between the two groups. The findings of our work suggest that navigation abilities, spatio‐temporal memory, and their underlying circuits are preserved in individuals with ASD. Lay Summary: In our study, adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) were able to learn and use different navigation strategies, similar to typically developing adults. Specific cerebellum regions needed for these abilities are thought to be affected in ASD. However, we found no difference in their volume or in their functioning at rest. Navigation and its associated brain circuits seem to be preserved in adults with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]