Autism

Drug reverses autism-like brain changes in adult mice within hours, study finds

Researchers found that a single dose of rapamycin rapidly improved symptoms in adult mice with autism-like changes, reversing abnormal brain signaling and behavior within two hours. The study suggests the adult brain's functional circuitry, not just its physical structure, as a target for future treatment approaches.

Can sports help improve motor skills in children with autism?

Research suggests that sports-based interventions may improve motor skills in children with autism spectrum disorder. Martial arts and aquatic training demonstrated the most consistent benefits, particularly in balance and total motor skills. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Imaging shows increased brain aging across different brain disorders

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that people with dementia, mild cognitive impairment, alcohol addiction, or psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia show increased brain aging patterns. The researchers analyzed MRI data from over 45,900 controls and compared them to 2,698 patients with different brain conditions.

Review calls attention to brain development risks associated with certain medications during pregnancy

A review article highlights the potential risks of certain medications during pregnancy on brain development, including autism and neurodevelopmental disorders. Altering fundamental brain processes can have detrimental effects, emphasizing the need for reduced use or alternative treatments.

Brain signal linked to communication challenges in autism

Researchers found subtle patterns in brain activity while children listened to speech linked to verbal communication abilities in autistic youths. Altered brain signals suggested the brain may process speech less efficiently, with noisier signals associated with lower scores on everyday verbal communication.

Gene therapy restores key fragile X traits in preclinical study

A gene therapy approach has restored several disease-relevant traits in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome, including reduced seizure susceptibility and improved brain activity markers. The study's findings suggest that restoring the FMRP protein could improve symptoms such as sensory hypersensitivity and repetitive behavior.

Brains of teens with autism ‘tune in’ less to unfamiliar voices, Stanford Medicine-led study finds

A Stanford Medicine-led study found that teenagers with autism are less responsive to unfamiliar voices as they mature. Unlike neurotypical teens, the reward centers in autistic teens' brains don't become increasingly responsive to strangers' voices during adolescence, which may impact social connections and friendships.

Landmark autism research finds Phelan-McDermid Syndrome may affect 1 in 7,300 people

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.

Families report positive outcomes from fully virtual, BCBA-delivered, focused autism support program

A new study finds that fully virtual applied behavior analysis (ABA) services delivered by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) are a feasible alternative to traditional in-person therapy. Children with autism who received focused ABA services showed improvements in adaptive skills, behavior outcomes, and family quality of life.

$34.5 million donation to University of Cambridge for research to help improve the health and wellbeing of autistic people and their families

The University of Cambridge will join the Yang Tan Collective with Harvard University and MIT to focus on cutting-edge science and accelerate autism research. Research centers will investigate challenges faced by autistic individuals, including lower life-expectancy rates and early diagnosis.

Prenatal acetaminophen (paracetamol) use and the risk of autism and/or ADHD among sibling-matched cohorts

A population-based study found no association between prenatal paracetamol exposure and risk of autism spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in offspring. The study suggests that positive signals from previous research may be due to familial confounding.

A review argues the family dog may become science’s unlikely ally against autism

A decade of canine research suggests that genetically engineered Beagles could be a complementary and welfare-conscious model for autism treatments. The study gathers findings on the behavior and traits of these dogs in relation to human autism, including signs of treatment with oxytocin and psychedelics.

Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine researcher awarded up to $17.25 million to join an international autism research collaborative

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.

Boston Children’s Hospital awarded up to $17.25 million to join new autism research network

Boston Children's Hospital has been awarded up to $17.25 million to participate in the Innovative Medicine and Precision Approaches to Clinical Trials (IMPACT) Network, an international effort aimed at speeding up the development of urgently needed treatments for children with profound autism and related neurodevelopmental disabilities...

Internet searches for leucovorin, folate, and acetaminophen after a White House autism announcement

A White House announcement on treating autism with leucovorin and against acetaminophen during pregnancy led to significant increases in internet searches for these topics. Nearly 1 million additional searches for leucovorin were recorded, alongside over 4 million searches for acetaminophen.

Changes in genetic contributions to ASD and ADHD by year of diagnosis

The study analyzed polygenic scores and simulated expectations to understand changes in genetic contributions to ASD and ADHD diagnoses by year of diagnosis. Findings suggest broadening diagnostic criteria as a possible explanation for increasing rates, which has significant implications for risk factors and clinical practice.

New therapy may reverse autism-related brain deficits

Researchers identified a promising new strategy for reversing autism-related brain deficits by targeting a specific glycine transporter. The therapy restored NMDA receptor function in mouse models and human brain organoids, improving behavioral abnormalities such as social interaction and repetitive behaviors.

Fertility challenges associated with small differences in children’s neurodevelopment, NIH study finds

A new NIH study found associations between fertility history and children's development, including slightly higher behavior-problem scores and autism-like traits. Non-IVF fertility treatments were also linked to a higher risk of ADHD in children.

Dr. Helen Willsey and Dr. David Kastner to investigate SYNGAP1’s role in cilia function and behavior with support from CURE SYNGAP1

Researchers will investigate the link between SYNGAP1 protein deficiency, cilia dysfunction, and clinical symptoms of SYNGAP1-Related Disorders. The study aims to inform rational drug design and provide new insights for targeted therapies.

Activating specific neural circuits rescues autism-like behaviors in an ASD mouse model

A new study reveals that specific neural circuits can be activated to reverse structural abnormalities associated with autism spectrum disorder. Researchers successfully restored the axon initial segment's length and improved behavioral abnormalities in an ASD mouse model.

European funded research to identify new markers for autism spectrum disorder in children born preterm

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.

Global SYNGAP1 organizations form CURE SYNGAP1 COLLECTIVE (CSC) to accelerate treatments and ensure patient access through coordinated global action

The CURE SYNGAP1 COLLECTIVE is a collaborative framework uniting independent SYNGAP1 charities worldwide to accelerate treatments for individuals with SYNGAP1-Related Disorders. The Collective focuses on three primary pillars: research, industry engagement, and patient advocacy.

SMFM reaffirms acetaminophen as first-line medication for treating pain and fever during pregnancy

Acetaminophen remains the recommended medication for treating pain and fever during pregnancy. Recent studies have investigated its potential association with childhood neurobehavioral issues, but significant limitations were found in their study designs. SMFM recommends acetaminophen as a safe treatment option for pregnant patients wh...

Middle-aged and older adults with autistic traits face rising anxiety over time

A UK study found that middle-aged and older adults with higher autistic traits are more likely to report worsening anxiety as they age. Researchers identified three distinct groups based on their anxiety responses over eight years, highlighting the importance of early identification and tailored support for this vulnerable minority.

Funding for “Validating Remote Developmental Assessments in SYNGAP1-Related Disorders” grant awarded to co-PIs Julie Orlando DPT, PhD of ENDD at U Penn and Dr. Jill McKee of CHOP from CURE SYNGAP1

CURE SYNGAP1 invests in remote assessment tools to broaden access to clinical care and trials for patients with SYNGAP1-Related Disorders. The study aims to evaluate the validity of a standardized remote developmental assessment to reduce travel burden.

Brain scans reveal two distinct subtypes of autism with different underlying biology

Researchers identified two distinct subtypes of autism based on brain connectivity patterns, one characterized by reduced connectivity linked to synaptic pathways and the other by increased connectivity associated with immune-related systems. The study's findings offer a biological basis for personalized care and support.

Brain scans reveal two distinct subtypes of autism with different underlying biology

Researchers identified two reproducible autism subtypes characterized by reduced brain connectivity (hypoconnectivity) or increased connectivity (hyperconnectivity), linked to synaptic pathways and immune-related systems, respectively. The study provides a biological foundation for precision medicine approaches.

New urine test provides simple way to screen for autism in 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.

Autistic Australians three times more likely to be homeless

New Flinders University research reveals that autistic Australians are three times more likely to be homeless, with poor communication and sensory sensitivities major contributors. Strong family support is the most powerful protective factor, while targeted training and autism-informed services can significantly reduce homelessness risk.

CURE SYNGAP1, fka SynGAP Research Fund (SRF), announces the release of their 2025 impact report – unlock their tomorrow

The 2025 Impact Report showcases tangible progress made by CURE SYNGAP1, including almost $1.8M in grants and the most successful SYNGAP1 Science Conference ever. The report highlights the organization's focus on Collaboration, Transparency, and Urgency, driving momentum for clinical trials and treatments.

CURE SYNGAP1 announces $111,960 investment in RARE-X partnership to advance ProMMIS patient-reported outcome measure data collection – PR46

CURE SYNGAP1 partners with RARE-X to accelerate ProMMiS study's Patient-Reported Outcome measure data collection. This investment enables the centralized collection of high-quality PROs, essential for regulatory approval and therapy development.

Strong genetic mutation overrides female protective effects in autism

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.

Leucovorin prescriptions for children with autism surged after public attention

A national study found a sharp increase in leucovorin prescriptions among children with autism following media coverage and White House promotion. Researchers urge caution due to limited large-scale evidence, highlighting the need for rigorous data to inform treatment decisions.

New drug target identified for Fragile X syndrome

Scientists have identified a new drug target for treating Fragile X syndrome by blocking the EPAC2 brain protein, which improves abnormal brain activity and behavioral symptoms. The study uses genetically engineered mice to simulate the condition and finds that EPAC2 levels rise gradually as the brain matures.

The Lancet Psychiatry: No clear link between common antidepressant use in pregnancy and autism or ADHD in children, finds most comprehensive study to date

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 ...

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...

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.

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.