The neocortex is the outer part of the brain which contains groups of cells named mini columns which are the smallest unit of cells capable of processing information. The neurons are large cells founded in mini columns which allow communication within an individual mini column and among different parts of the brain.



At the people with autism mini columns are smaller and more numerous than normal. The neurons are reduced in size within each mini column which can be good or bad. There are things that can be processed in one area of the brain like math and visual discrimination at which people with autism are very good, but they can be very bad at anything that requires coordination among various parts of the brain like social skills, language and face discrimination.

The stimuli which are no longer contained within specific mini columns can go to next mini columns causing an amplifier effect which is the one side effect of extra mini columns with extra-small cells. Thus can be explained the hypersensitivity of some autistic patients. It is believed that lessening sensory overload and the likelihood of seizures can be done by increasing the "insulation" surrounding mini columns.

The only cells that can stand at 90 degrees to surface of the cortex are the mini column cells. The insolation around the mini columns can be reinforced transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) which would have a minimal side effect. It is important this treatment because the side effect of changing the personality or thought processes of the person being treated would not exist. Mental illnesses like schizophrenia and depression are treated using TMS. For treating hallucinatory voices clinical trials use the NIH to test the usefulness of TMS.

Social skills, language and face discrimination are definitory in cases of autism.

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