A new study by Mount Sinai researchers has estimated that Phelan-McDermid syndrome affects approximately 13.7 cases per 100,000 people, equivalent to about 1 in 7,300 individuals. The condition is a rare genetic disorder caused by deletion or mutation of the SHANK3 gene and often co-occurs with autism spectrum disorder.
Baylor College of Medicine researcher Dr. Jimmy Holder and his team will join the ARIA IMPACT Network to accelerate clinical trial readiness and implementation for promising therapies on autism. The collaboration aims to better understand how autism develops and changes over time in children with profound autism.
Researchers are developing innovative approaches to identify markers of autism in children born before 37 weeks of gestation. The project aims to create an AI-enabled digital twin for autism diagnosis, providing personalized support and treatment plans for affected children.
A new screening tool tests for microbial metabolites in urine to identify children at risk for autism, with 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The test may guide more targeted interventions, including approaches to restore a healthy gut microbiome.
Researchers developed a viable homozygous CHD8 mouse model, showing that stronger mutations can dramatically alter male–female autism patterns. The study revealed pronounced autism-related abnormalities in both sexes with severe mutations.
A large population-based study found that children with epilepsy have a significantly higher risk of also having autism spectrum disorder. The study highlighted key differences between children with co-occurring conditions, including intellectual disability and age of diagnosis.
A new telehealth tool developed by UCR professor Katherine Meltzoff expands access to autism diagnoses for older children with more verbal speech. The study showed promising results in matching the accuracy of traditional in-person evaluations, offering a potential solution to long-standing barriers.
A new study examined geographic patterns in autism diagnosis by primary care providers among Medicaid-enrolled children in 29 states, finding significant variation between regions. The study found that 29% of children were diagnosed with ASD by a primary care provider, with rates varying from 20.0% in the Midwest to 36.4% in the West.
Researchers have identified drug candidates that reverse disrupted behaviors in zebrafish carrying mutations in specific autism risk genes. The study highlights the importance of stratifying or subgrouping autism risk genes to identify potential drug candidates using a precision medicine-based approach.
A new survey by Autism BrainNet reveals a significant disconnect between Americans' strong support for autism research and their limited understanding of postmortem brain donation. The survey found that 70% of respondents had never heard of brain donation, despite 92% agreeing its importance in advancing research.
A new study proposes that biological differences, including genetic factors, contribute to autism's strong sex bias. Research suggests that females may be biologically buffered against developing autism due to their X chromosome.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego identified new genetic variants associated with autism spectrum disorder using long-read whole genome sequencing. The approach enhanced the discovery of genetic variants, offering new insights into the genetic origins of autism.
A study from Sweden found autism rates among male and female individuals to be comparable, with a clear catch-up effect in females during adolescence. This challenges the long-held assumption that autism predominantly affects males.
Researchers created a comprehensive map showing how eight different genetic mutations associated with autism spectrum disorder affect early brain development. They found that despite initial differences, these mutations increasingly impact overlapping molecular pathways as development progresses.
A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that exposure to wildfire smoke during the third trimester may raise the risk of autism diagnoses in children. Mothers who were exposed to more than 10 days of wildfire smoke had a 23% higher risk of their child being diagnosed with autism by age 5.
Research finds age-related DNA methylation alterations in sperm may contribute to autism risk in offspring. Advanced paternal age is associated with specific changes in sperm DNA, influencing early development in children.
A new AI-assisted device, CanvasDx, has been shown to improve autism care access in rural Missouri communities. By reducing travel distances and processing times, families can receive diagnoses up to 5-7 months earlier.
A new study describes a three-hit metabolic signaling model that reframes autism as a treatable disorder of cellular communication and energy metabolism. The model suggests that up to half of all autism cases might be prevented or reduced with prenatal and early-life interventions.
A new guide published by Oxford University Press provides essential resources for parents of adolescents with autism. The book covers various challenges they face during this critical period, including social connections, puberty, and sexuality. It also offers extensive lists of resources to support these young individuals.
A new study found that maternal thyroid hormones are crucial for fetal neurodevelopment, and gestational thyroid imbalance increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder. Women with persistent thyroid dysfunction across pregnancy were at a higher risk of having children with autism.
Researchers conclude that the hypothesis of a causal relationship between the gut microbiome and autism is unsupported by science. Key findings include inadequate sample sizes and flawed statistical methods in studies attempting to establish this link. The authors argue for a more rigorous approach to studying this topic.
Researchers found a novel link between shared brain-gene patterns and autism symptom severity in children with autism and ADHD. The study suggests that focusing on specific symptom dimensions and their biological correlates may lead to more precise recognition and treatment approaches.
Recent studies have identified hundreds of genes contributing to individual experiences of autism, as well as gene-environment interactions affecting symptoms. Additionally, decreased stigma and new screening techniques have led to more diagnoses, particularly among adults and medically underserved communities.
A new study suggests that the high prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in humans is linked to the rapid evolution of specific brain cell types and genes. The research found that human brains contain a unique array of neuronal cell types that evolved rapidly compared to other primates.
Diana Schendel assumes leadership of Autism Research journal with expertise in epidemiology and global autism research leadership. She aims to publish high-quality, impactful research from around the world.
Researchers have found that hyperactivity in a specific brain region can drive behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder. They reversed symptoms such as seizures, sensory hypersensitivity and repetitive behaviors by suppressing this area of the brain using epilepsy drugs.
A new study found a link between parents' workplace chemical exposure and their child's autism severity, with certain chemicals associated with cognitive deficits and developmental delays. The research emphasizes the need for workplace safety measures to protect not only workers but also their future children.
Researchers found that early sensory processing, including touch and hearing, diverge in people with autism compared to those without the condition. The study suggests that understanding these early differences may lead to breakthroughs in treating autism.
Scientists have discovered a link between autism spectrum disorders and congenital heart disease, finding that tiny hair-like structures called cilia underlie the shared biology of both conditions. This study offers hope for early diagnosis and intervention, with potential benefits for children with autism.
The Autism Inpatient Collection (AIC) has released a comprehensive dataset of over 1,500 children with autism, ages 4-20, providing valuable insights into their phenotypic and genetic profiles. The data includes measures of behavior, communication, emotion regulation, and more.
A study analyzing over 700,000 Reddit posts on autism reveals recurring topics such as music and social life, showcasing a supportive community that values differences. The research offers a new approach to understanding autism, shifting focus from disability to neurodiversity.
Researchers are still puzzled by the complex interplay of factors involved in tickling, including motor, social, neurological, developmental, and evolutionary aspects. Studies have shown that people with autism spectrum disorder respond differently to ticklish stimuli, offering insights into brain development and differences in autism.
The FAU CARD water safety manual provides crucial guidance on preventing wandering, identifying potential drowning risks, and implementing prevention strategies. The manual aims to reduce the risk of drowning among children with autism by empowering parents and caregivers with knowledge and tools.
A study from York University found that analyzing finger motions during grasping can classify autism with approximately 85% accuracy, potentially offering a simpler and scalable diagnostic tool. This approach may help identify subtle motor control differences in individuals on the autism spectrum.
The Coalition of Autism Scientists rejects false narratives about autism incidence and causes, urging HHS to focus on established research approaches. The group demands respect for autism research and calls for the Secretary's plan to be registered, with public comment and data sharing.
Researchers have identified a molecular pathway that disrupts brain development in children with myotonic dystrophy, leading to symptoms of autism. The study reveals how genetic mutations affect the splicing process, resulting in characteristic features of autism.
The CDC report found an overall prevalence of autism of 1 in 31 among 8-year-olds, with significant differences by racial and ethnic background. Among Maryland 4-year-olds, the prevalence was 1 in 41, with boys being more likely to be identified with autism than girls.
Researchers at the University of Missouri's Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment have found that behavior at 9 months old can indicate a 1-year-old's likelihood of being at risk for autism. Parent surveys reported fussiness, irritability, and difficulty calming down were associated with early signs of autism by 12 months.
The International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) will hold its 24th Annual Meeting in Seattle, featuring 1600 posters, 28 oral sessions, and keynotes on topics such as daily challenges faced by the autism community and implementation science aimed at enhancing systems of care.
The study used AI analysis on over 4,200 clinical reports to identify key factors in autism diagnosis. Criteria related to repetitive movements and special interests were strongly linked to an autism diagnosis, while socialization criteria were not highly specific.
Dr. Eric Levine's lab at UConn School of Medicine has been awarded $400,000 to study the genetic pathways of autism spectrum disorders using patient-derived human neurons. The team aims to identify genes and brain cell behavior that may cause these disorders, with potential applications for gene therapy.
A new video game, CAMI, uses motion-tracking technology to detect differences in motor imitation skills, distinguishing children with autism from neurotypical children and ADHD patients with 80% accuracy. The tool has the potential to transform autism diagnoses worldwide by providing a quick, low-cost, and easy-to-use alternative.
A new genetic link has been identified between the DDX53 gene and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), providing crucial insights into the biological underpinnings of the condition. The study found that variants in the DDX53 gene contribute to ASD, particularly in males, highlighting its potential role in the male predominance observed in ASD.
A new study finds that individuals with autism spectrum disorder have an increased dynamic range in their neuronal response, resulting in a more detailed but slower response to changes. This increase enables accurate encoding of details but comes at the expense of faster adaptation.
A Tel Aviv University study identified key brain mechanisms disrupted by SHANK3 gene mutations, leading to autism. The research found that genetic treatment improved oligodendrocytes' communication sites, promoting proper development and function.
A new study found that standardized autism screening during pediatric well-child visits identifies more children with high autism likelihood at a younger age. The study used the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F) and compared it to usual care.
Professor Amal's research has uncovered crucial links between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting shared molecular mechanisms that could revolutionize treatment approaches. He is developing biological diagnostics and treatments for ASD through his biotechnology companies, Point6 Bio Ltd and NeuroNOS Ltd.
Researchers grew personalized brain organoids from patients with a rare form of autism spectrum disorder to study its impact on brain development. The study revealed that microRNAs play a crucial role in determining the fate of developing brain cells, and an experimental drug may reverse critical cellular signs of autism.
A Geisinger study found a significant link between increased autism risk and the Y chromosome, offering a potential explanation for the disparity in ASD prevalence among males. The research analyzed genetic data from over 177,000 patients and confirmed prior work on Turner syndrome's association with ASD risk.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open has found that pandemic-era children do not have a higher risk of developing autism. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 2,000 children born during and before the pandemic, and found no difference in positive autism screenings between groups.
A new study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that consuming fish during pregnancy was associated with a lower likelihood of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, particularly in females. The study also found no significant association between omega-3 supplements and autism diagnosis.
A recent study published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology reveals that children born extremely preterm are at a higher risk of autism diagnosis. The screening test was effective in identifying autism in preterm children, with only a small percentage who screened positive later receiving no diagnosis.
A new study by top researchers reveals one in five children with an older sibling diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are likely to be diagnosed with the disorder as well. The rate of autism recurrence is seven times higher in families with an autistic child compared to the general population.
Research published in Nature Communications found an association between prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and autism in boys. The study suggests that BPA may disrupt hormone-controlled male fetal brain development, leading to autism symptoms.
Researchers found that siblings of children with autism who had relatives with schizophrenia or anxiety experienced increased social and communication difficulties. Family history of anxiety and intellectual disability was associated with lower verbal and nonverbal skills in these siblings.
Researchers found that toddlers with profound autism had larger embryonic brain cortical organoids (BCOs) compared to neurotypical controls. The BCO size was positively correlated with the child's later social symptoms, indicating that a larger brain may be the first sign of autism.
A new autism screening tool, Autism Detection in Early Childhood (ADEC), has been successfully adapted for a Spanish-speaking population in Ecuador. The study found that ADEC can be used to identify children with high likelihood of developing autism, providing a cost-effective way to improve early diagnosis and support.
A UCLA Health study has unveiled the link between genetic risk of autism and observed cellular activity in the brain. Researchers analyzed post-mortem brain tissue from 66 individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder, to identify changes in cortical cell types and transcription factor networks.
Researchers discovered a link between disrupted developmental dopamine signaling and autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the importance of studying neural development pathways. The study found that dopaminergic signaling disruptions led to neural circuit abnormalities and behavioral phenotypes reminiscent of autism in zebrafish larvae.
A research team led by Gloria Choi and Jun Huh will investigate how fever improves autism symptoms in an effort to develop therapies that replicate this effect. They plan to explore the molecular mechanisms behind the 'fever effect' and its potential applications for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.