Autism
Articles tagged with Autism
Non-coding gene linked to core social and behavioral traits in Autism, major SickKids-led study finds
New meta-analysis finds no increased risk to children’s brain development from fathers’ use of valproate
A comprehensive review of existing research shows no evidence that men's use of valproate increases the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. The analysis combines data from large population-based studies in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Taiwan.
Autism spectrum disorder in a child may be linked to mother’s job
People who score higher on autistic traits may be more likely to label their feelings as a way of coping with uncertainty
Research at Nagoya University suggests that individuals with higher autistic traits use labeling as a way to cope with uncertainty, reducing emotional stress. The study found a link between autistic traits and lower anxiety levels when people are able to put their feelings into words.
Stereotypes of autism in TV and film may be linked to delayed diagnosis, Stirling study finds
Researchers found that portrayals in media lacked diversity, often focusing on white, socially awkward male characters. Autistic participants felt that such portrayals were exaggerated and simplified, limiting public understanding and self-understanding.
What factors might account for the increased risk of autism in children with epilepsy?
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.
Researchers find virtual reality intervention improves interactions between autistic individuals and police officers
A new virtual reality intervention improved interactions between autistic teens and adults with law enforcement officers, reducing fidgeting and increasing positive behavior. The study showed significant improvements in the virtual reality group compared to a video modeling intervention.
How can the same genetic mutation lead to different clinical outcomes?
Researchers developed a framework to study the impact of genetic variants on neurodevelopmental disorders. By analyzing induced pluripotent stem cells, they found that genetic background can lead to different clinical outcomes in individuals with the same deletion on chromosome 16.
The boy on the balcony who never came outside
Dr. Dilek Colak's journey began with a childhood observation of a boy with mental illness, which inspired her to pursue a career in neuroscience. Her current work focuses on understanding autism and schizophrenia through the study of human brain organoids.
Online autism diagnoses found to be effective
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.
New brain stimulation technique improves short term social skills in children with autism
A new non-invasive brain stimulation technique called accelerated continuous theta burst stimulation (a-cTBS) has been shown to improve social communication in children with autism. The study found significant improvements in social communication and language abilities in the a-cTBS group compared to the sham group.
Toxic PCBs, sex-biased genes, and the developing brain
Researchers at the UC Davis MIND Institute found that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) alter genes more in females than males, with a key gene called XIST playing a protective role. Folic acid also shows promise in mitigating harmful effects of PCB exposure, particularly in women.
Say Cheese3D: A new model for tracking facial expression
Researchers have developed a new tool called Cheese3D to track subtle changes in mouse facial expression, enabling scientists to study and interpret brain function with greater accuracy. The system uses AI to quantify facial movements, opening up new possibilities for studying autism, behavioral therapy, and disease states.
Autism diagnosis by primary care providers: geographic variation among Medicaid-enrolled children in 29 states
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.
Scientists map how Down syndrome reshapes brain development before birth
Researchers at UCLA mapped how Down syndrome disrupts prenatal neuron development, leading to cognitive and sensory processing differences. The study found altered developmental sequences and cell populations that may contribute to the condition's effects.
Can wearable technology detect the earliest signs of autism in infants? New study seeks to find out
Researchers are developing a new wearable technology to monitor babies' movements and detect early signs of autism. The study aims to improve early identification and intervention, which is crucial for optimal developmental outcomes in autistic individuals.
Scientists engineer a tool to “edit” brain circuits and enhance memory
Researchers develop molecular tool called SynTrogo, which enables selective dismantling of synaptic connections in brain circuits. By harnessing astrocytes, the system reduces synapse number while strengthening remaining connections, leading to enhanced long-term potentiation and improved memory.
CURE SYNGAP1 announces 2026 board of trustees transition
The organization welcomes Craig Bower, Allison Hirsch Hadar, Susan Johnson, Andrew Schillaci, and Ed Warshauer to its Board of Trustees, succeeding outgoing members. These new leaders join a mission primed for global impact, signaling a reinforced commitment to accelerating safe, effective, and targeted therapies.
Zebrafish reveal new insights into the biology of autism
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.
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) altered in children with autism
Researchers found altered Tregs in children with autism, which may contribute to neuroinflammation and behavioral changes. The findings suggest that increasing Tregs could reduce inflammation and related impacts on conditions linked to maternal immune activation and autism.
Survey: Americans strongly support autism research — but most don’t know brain donation is needed to advance it
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.
New research reveals autism risk genes are shared across ancestries
A study analyzing over 15,000 Latin American individuals identifies 35 genes significantly associated with autism, showing extensive overlap with previously identified genes in European-ancestry cohorts. The findings support the universal biological foundations of autism and highlight the need for diverse populations to be represented ...
UCLA researchers receive $13.9 million CIRM grant to identify drug targets for autism and schizophrenia using human stem cell models
Researchers will use human stem cell-based models to uncover molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying autism and schizophrenia. They aim to identify genetic variants that alter brain development and pinpoint common underlying mechanisms for both conditions.
Video training helps young adults with disabilities navigate romance
Researchers developed a video modeling program to enhance romantic relationship skills in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that participants significantly improved their decision-making skills across four relationship domains, averaging 76% accuracy after the intervention. The findings high...
SynGAP Research Fund (SRF) announces formal transition to CURE SYNGAP1, reinforcing commitment to treatment development
CURE SYNGAP1 accelerates treatment development for SYNGAP1-Related Disorders through rigorous research and family-led leadership. The organization has funded over $8 million in grants and identified over 1,707 patients to date.
TikTok’s mental health ‘minefield’
A systematic review of social media platforms reveals that TikTok contains a substantial proportion of misleading information about mental health and neurodivergence, with higher rates of misinformation than other platforms. The study emphasizes the importance of credible sources and evidence-based content to combat spreading false ide...
Augmented reality job coaching boosts performance by 79% for people with disabilities
A new study found that augmented reality job coaching significantly improves job performance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The AR-based application delivered real-time guidance, enabling participants to complete complex tasks with minimal external support. This innovative approach has the potential t...
Online spaces can provide bodily comfort, relief and inclusion for some autistic people, study says
Online spaces provide bodily comfort, relief, and inclusion for some autistic adults, allowing them to express themselves and connect genuinely without scrutiny. This challenges the assumption that in-person interaction is always more valuable.
Research alert: Long-read genome sequencing uncovers new autism gene variants
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.
Maternal acetaminophen use and child neurodevelopment
A study in Taiwan found a positive association between maternal prenatal acetaminophen use and increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. However, associations were not observed in sibling-matched analyses, suggesting unaddressed sources of bias.
FAU awarded $2.4M NIH grant to study immune signaling and social behavior
Researchers will investigate the role of interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) in brain function, behavior, and psychiatric health. The study aims to define the physiological role of IL-1R1 in the brain and explore its influence on social behaviors.
White House autism briefing linked to swift shifts in prescribing patterns, study finds
A study found a significant decrease in acetaminophen use during pregnancy and a surge in leucovorin prescriptions after the September 2025 White House briefing. Leucovorin prescriptions increased approximately 71% above expected levels, mainly for children with autism diagnoses.
When a helpful brain signal gets stuck: A new clue in autism biology
In a new study, researchers found that increased nitric oxide levels can lead to a biochemical domino effect, pushing the key cellular control system mTOR into overdrive in some forms of autism. By interrupting this pathway, the team observed prevention of TSC2 modification and normalization of mTOR activity.
Genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed, massive Swedish study reveals
A massive Swedish study of over 2 million individuals reveals that genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed. Schizophrenia shows the highest genetic specificity, while drug use disorder has a much lower specificity, scattering its genetic risk across multiple conditions.
Improve education and transitional support for autistic people to prevent death by suicide, say experts
A new study found that autistic people face inequalities from childhood, leading to suicidal thoughts and deaths. The researchers emphasize the need for a commitment to a properly resourced Autism Strategy to prevent suicidal trajectories.
Georgia State experts to help lead landmark study of profound autism
Researchers from Georgia State University, Marcus Autism Center and Emory University are collaborating to investigate the causes of profound autism in children. The 7,500 child study will explore patterns in development, behavior, brain activity and genetics to find more effective therapies.
Study: Anxiety, gloom often accompany intellectual deficits
A study analyzing data from 44,000 adults found that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression. The study also highlights significant healthcare treatment and access barriers facing this population.
Babies with an increased likelihood of autism may struggle to settle into deep, restorative sleep, according to a new study from the University of East Anglia.
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that babies with an increased likelihood of autism may struggle to settle into deep, restorative sleep. Those with high sensory sensitivity slept more lightly even in quiet environments.
Does the motion of our DNA influence its activity?
How the human exposome will unlock better health and medicine:
The Global Exposome Forum is a global initiative that aims to understand the complex interplay between biological, chemical, and environmental exposures and human health. The project has partnered with national governments, scientific institutions, and large membership-led organizations to advance exposomics science.
Everyone unconsciously adapts their communication for children – including autistic adults
A new study published in Autism found that autistic adults initially adjust their communication style for children, but then stick to their initial assessment. Autistic participants were more likely to rely on subtle cues and take the interaction seriously, whereas non-autistic participants gradually adjusted their behavior as they rea...
New study calls for faster autism diagnosis to prevent suicides
A new study by Bournemouth University calls for faster autism diagnosis and tailored mental health support to reduce autistic people's suicidal thoughts and attempts. The research identified key priorities, including improving autism diagnostic services, tackling societal inequalities, and providing autism-specific support in crisis.
No association between mRNA COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and autism in children, new research shows
Researchers studied 434 children for signs of autism or neurodevelopmental problems, finding no link between mRNA vaccine and autism. The study suggests that COVID-19 vaccines are safe to receive during pregnancy to protect maternal and infant health.
Fragile X study uncovers brainwave biomarker bridging humans and mice
Researchers have discovered a novel biomarker for fragile X syndrome in both human patients and mouse models, allowing for the comparison of brain wave patterns between species. This breakthrough enables the development of more effective treatments by enabling non-invasive treatment efficacy readouts across species.
Mortality among youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy
Research highlights increased mortality risks among individuals with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy compared to the general population. The study's findings can inform public health strategies to address health disparities and excess mortality associated with developmental disabilities.
Dr. Paul Donlin-Asp of the University of Edinburgh to dissect the molecular functions and regulation of local SYNGAP1 protein synthesis with support from CURE SYNGAP1 (fka SynGAP Research Fund)
Dr. Paul Donlin-Asp will investigate the molecular functions and regulation of local SYNGAP1 protein synthesis, aiming to advance therapies for SYNGAP1-related Disorders. The project seeks to map mechanisms controlling SYNGAP1 protein production in neurons.
University of Houston study offers potential new targets to identify, remediate dyslexia
A University of Houston study challenges traditional views on dyslexia, suggesting it stems from an overall brain network vulnerability. The research identified two developmental origins: one related to brain architecture and another to synaptic signaling, which may be uniquely human.
Maternal perinatal depression may increase the risk of autistic-related traits in girls
A large-scale Japanese cohort study and mouse experiments reveal that maternal perinatal depression increases autistic-related traits in toddlers, with a particularly strong impact on girls. The findings suggest a sex-specific neurobiological pathway underlying these effects.
Rates of autism in girls and boys may be more equal than previously thought
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.
Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum 2026, 6-10 July, Barcelona, Spain
The FENS Forum 2026 will be Europe's largest neuroscience congress, covering areas of basic to translational research. Journalists can register for free and attend symposia and poster sessions.
Dr. Àlex Bayés Puig advances SYNGAP1 research with new SynGAP biomarker study funded by CURE SYNGAP1
Dr. Àlex Bayés Puig advances SYNGAP1 research with a new SynGAP biomarker study funded by CURE SYNGAP1, enabling the detection of SYNGAP1 protein levels in blood cells. This breakthrough approach has the potential to transform diagnostics and clinical research for SYNGAP1 patients.
Study maps how varied genetic forms of autism lead to common features
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.
Drexel study finds early intervention helps most autistic children acquire spoken language
A recent study led by researchers at Drexel University's Autism Institute found that early intervention is key to helping most non-speaking autistic children develop spoken language. The study suggests that duration of the intervention rather than intensity may be more effective in achieving outcomes for these children.
New research shows drastic effects the menopause can have on autistic people
Research by Bournemouth University explores the impact of menopause on autistic people, finding that symptoms can be disabling and life-threatening. The study highlights the need for better support and resources to help neurodivergent individuals navigate this transition.
AI tool helps you learn how autistic communication works
A new AI-based learning tool, NeuroBridge, aims to bridge the communication gap between neurotypical and autistic individuals. The interactive LLM tool evaluates user responses to match autistic communication preferences, teaching users about cross-neurotype communication styles and their interdependent nature.
Exposure to wildfire smoke late in pregnancy may raise autism risk in children
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.
Ben-Gurion University expert on autism spectrum disorders leads new project examining sleep in children with autism
A new open-science resource for studying sleep in children with autism has been launched, leveraging state-of-the-art wearable and nearable devices to gather unprecedented data. The Simons Sleep Project reveals that autistic children have greater difficulties falling asleep than their siblings, and this specific sleep problem is associ...
Autistic and non-autistic faces may “speak a different language” when expressing emotion
Researchers found that autistic and non-autistic individuals produce distinct emotional facial expressions, with autistic adults exhibiting more unique and complex expressions. The study suggests that these differences in facial expressions may contribute to difficulties in recognizing each other's emotions.
The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Women’s Health: Taking paracetamol during pregnancy does not increase risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disabilities, confirms new gold-standard evidence review
A new systematic review and meta-analysis of 43 studies confirms paracetamol during pregnancy is not linked to increased risks of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities. The findings suggest alternative maternal factors may be responsible for previously reported associations.