Fig. 2

Pathway analysis for the high-risk autism genes using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Clustered protein within the top network-associated genes as derived from IPA algorithms is shown. Proteins identified are encircled and labeled with the protein symbol in red fill. Direct connections between/among proteins are shown in solid lines; indirect interactions are shown as dashed lines or edges. The constructed pathways analysis of the 15 high-risk genes has shown an association with various autism phenotypes and processes, including learning, synaptic transmission, abnormal social behavior, and social withdrawal. These genes coincide with multiple pathways with overlapping connections across different pathways and present in the upstream and downstream of vital processes. Each gene has a divergent and convergent pathway and can pave a path towards autism manifestation