Research on autism and neurodevelopment. Covers screening and diagnosis gaps, rising diagnoses among girls, prenatal risks, and genomics.
A long-term study of FXTAS carriers has identified key indicators of disease progression, including cognitive decline and motor symptoms. Researchers hope to develop a validated tracking tool to monitor premutation carriers and patients with FXTAS.
A landmark study found that autistic individuals think as quickly and rationally as non-autistic people, challenging the idea that autism is a mental processing disorder. The research suggests that certain fundamental processes are more similar between autistic and non-autistic individuals than previously thought.
Research identifies genetic variants associated with reduced grey matter volume in brain regions linked to schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. The study suggests a potential new target for treating severe mental illnesses by targeting the IL-6 gene.
This year's Experimental Biology 2022 meeting features groundbreaking studies on COVID-19 vaccine-associated symptoms in non-menstruating people, a plant compound showing promise for alleviating food allergies, and the potential of omega-3s to boost immunotherapy's cancer-fighting power. Researchers also explore the safety of using CBD...
A new study funded by the NIH found that amygdala overgrowth in autism spectrum disorder begins between 6-12 months of age, suggesting early intervention may be effective in reducing symptoms. The study also identified distinct brain growth patterns in infants with Fragile X syndrome.
Researchers found that babies who later develop autism show overgrowth of the amygdala between six and 12 months, prior to behavioral symptoms. This finding suggests a potential link between early sensory processing problems and amygdala enlargement.
A team of scientists discovered that a disrupted circadian clock gene may contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorder. The study found that deleting the Bmal1 gene in mice led to autistic-like behaviors and cerebellar dysfunction, which were alleviated by mTORC1 inhibition.
A study of 383 extremely preterm babies found that most had neurodevelopmental disorders and/or other diagnoses during childhood. The children were referred for habilitation services and had a range of additional diagnoses, including asthma and short stature.
Researchers have identified 79 ASD-associated genes and found that many of them alter behavior in fruit flies, providing functional evidence for their consequences. The study also uncovered a new form of rare disease due to the GLRA2 gene, highlighting the importance of de novo genetic variants in autism.
Researchers found that over half of autistic people were considered vulnerable adults, but only a quarter received reasonable adjustments. Autistic defendants often experienced meltdowns and stress due to lack of understanding from law enforcement and courts.
Researchers have developed a new approach to studying brain activity, allowing for longer-term studies and improved understanding of neural traffic jams. The new cranial window system uses surgical glue and a tiny glass window to capture high-quality blood flow imaging and stable electrical recordings.
A new early screening tool for autism has been found to be extremely accurate in identifying young children on the autism spectrum. The tool, developed by La Trobe University researchers, detects over 3 years earlier than traditional testing and has already been used in 11 countries.
Scientists developed a powerful new tool called Giraffe to improve genomic research by leveraging global genetic diversity. The tool allows for the use of a diverse pangenome reference point, enabling faster and more sensitive comparisons of short-read human genome sequences.
Researchers observed that chandelier cells, which regulate cortical circuit activity, communicate with other neurons shortly after birth, influencing brain development. This interaction is crucial for normal brain function and may be disrupted in neurological disorders.
In a breakthrough discovery, microglia have been found to play a crucial role in forming critical synapses in the brain, particularly in chandelier cells. This finding suggests that immune cells may not only remove unwanted connections but also nurture their formation, which is essential for cognitive functioning.
The March issues of American Psychiatric Association journals focus on the genomics of psychopathology, exploring its relationship with various mental illnesses. Research highlights unique genetic patterns among individuals who die by suicide using violent means.
The Phase 1b/2a clinical trial found that AB-2004 lowered blood and urinary levels of gut-derived metabolites and improved irritability and anxiety in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study's results support the potential of AB-2004 as a novel therapeutic approach for treating co-occurring conditions associated with ASD.
The collaboration aims to prepare professionals to support school-aged students with autism spectrum disorder and related disabilities. Full scholarships will be awarded to 24 graduate students starting in Fall 2022.
The SynGAP Research Fund has developed a pre-screening tool to identify potential SYNGAP1 patients through a free online survey. The partnership with Probably Genetic aims to screen undiagnosed patients and provide them with genetic testing resources, ultimately advancing treatment development for SYNGAP1.
A recent study identified specific RNA biomarkers linked to gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism. The findings could lead to the development of personalized treatments to ease the pain of these individuals. The research has implications for precision medicine, enabling healthcare providers to track medication effectiveness...
Researchers found that blocking an overactive signaling pathway during the first five weeks of life prevents autism symptoms from developing in mice. The study suggests that targeting this critical period could lead to a potential cure for autism.
A recent online survey found that pandemic-related school closures have a disproportionate negative impact on students with autism. The study reveals differences in the psychological impact of the pandemic on neurotypical and autistic children, highlighting the need for alternative ways to support autistic children's educational goals.
Researchers at UC Davis MIND Institute found a novel gene linked to autism spectrum disorder in newborns. The study analyzed DNA methylation signatures in the placenta, which reflected fetal brain development and early autism diagnosis.
A UMass Amherst researcher has received a $3 million grant to study the complex interplay of risk factors for autism, including early life exposure to environmental pollutants and genetic susceptibility. The study aims to better understand how multiple pollutants and the folate system are associated with autistic traits.
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Kansas has analyzed the cost of two commonly used interventions for students with autism spectrum disorder. The results showed that implementing emerging or ineffective interventions can consume valuable resources without promising positive outcomes. The study's goal was to p...
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 studies found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder have an increased risk of mortality. The study suggests that understanding the underlying reasons for these associations could lead to targeted strategies to prevent avoidable deaths.
Prenatal exposure to industrial toxin TCDD may cause long-term damage to brain circuits and potentially lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD. Researchers found that pharmacological manipulation can restore microglia function, suggesting a possible therapeutic avenue for these disorders.
Researchers at Lancaster University have identified a genetic change that impacts insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in the brain, which may lead to effective drug treatments for autism. The study found that individuals with a specific DNA deletion are more likely to develop neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.
A study by UC Davis MIND Institute researchers found that autistic children have distinct amygdala changes, with larger volumes associated with traditional anxiety and smaller volumes linked to autism-distinct anxieties. The study used brain scans of 71 autistic and 55 non-autistic children between ages 2-12.
Researchers found that 30% of fetuses who later developed ASD had heart, kidney, and head anomalies detected during routine prenatal ultrasounds. These anomalies were more common in girls and linked to the severity of ASD. The study suggests that doctors can use these signs to evaluate the probability of a child being born with ASD.
A team of scientists has identified hundreds of new genomic loci associated with brain structure, shedding light on how the human brain is shaped. The study used genetically informed brain atlases to uncover the largest number of genetic variants linked to cortex size and thickness.
A study in rats found that mothers with sleep apnea during pregnancy may have an increased risk of their male offspring developing autism-like behaviors, including impaired cognitive and social function. The findings suggest a potential mechanism for the link between maternal sleep apnea and neurodevelopmental disorders.
A study by University of Otago researchers has found that young Autistic people in Aotearoa have significantly lower rates of criminal justice system interactions compared to those without Autism. However, if charged, Autistic young people were more likely to face serious and violent offence charges.
Researchers used 3D mini-brain models to study the effects of three autism risk genes on neural formation and development. The study found that despite unique molecular mechanisms, the genes converged on affecting specific types of neurons, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for autism treatment.
A new study of over 84,000 children found a significant association between screen time at age 1 and the presence or absence of an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis at age 3. The research suggests that early exposure to screens may be a potential risk factor for developing autism.
Gene-environment interactions play a crucial role in the development of autism symptoms, according to a new study by UNIGE researchers. By inhibiting Trpv4 and inducing massive inflammation, scientists observed neuronal hyperexcitability, which disrupted communication channels and led to social avoidance behaviors.
Researchers at Flinders University found that autistic individuals with eating disorders also report higher weight and shape concerns, suggesting a unique combination of symptoms. The study highlights the need for best-practice guidelines to address co-occurring autism and eating disorders in treatment.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that 20% of teens and young adults seeking treatment for addiction had elevated social impairment scores, indicating previously unrecognized autistic traits. These individuals were more likely to experience stimulant and opioid use disorders.
Researchers have discovered how genetic variations of the oxytocin receptor affect hormone signaling inside brain cells. The mutated variant is more active and stable than the normal receptor, contradicting previous classifications. This finding provides new starting points for developing targeted therapies for autistic patients.
Researchers at King's College London found that a brain chemical called GABA regulates visual processing in autistic people. Activating GABA targets with the drug arbaclofen improves visual processing, suggesting potential new interventions for autism.
Researchers found molecular signatures of gestational inflammation associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a large cohort study. Elevated levels of certain immune system molecules at birth are linked to ASD risk, providing potential biomarkers for early screening.
A new study found that implementing a multi-stage screening protocol for autism spectrum disorder in early intervention services can lead to a significant increase in ASD detection, particularly among Spanish-speaking children. The increased rate of ASD detection was nearly twice as high for Spanish-speaking families as for non-Spanish...
Research at University of California - San Diego found that infants with ASD have impaired neural responses to motherese speech, which is crucial for emotional bonding and learning. Typically developing children show stronger brain activation and interest in motherese.
Researchers found that infants with autism symptoms can show significant improvement in just a few months through targeted therapeutic interventions. The studies suggest that bridging the gap between early detection and intervention may significantly reduce the severity of lifelong developmental deviation.
A study by Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that cochlear implantation can improve language skills and social engagement in deaf children with autism spectrum disorder. The study reported improved outcomes in 86% of children, including enhanced communication and interaction with families.
Researchers found that astrocytes regulate cognitive flexibility by releasing D-serine and glutamate, which integrates synaptic plasticity. Heterosynaptic long-term depression is mediated by astrocytes, critical for memory modification.
Research by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio scientists found that mice missing one copy of the Tbx1 gene exhibit slower cognitive processing. The gene's deletion led to diminished myelin insulation around nerves, impacting signal conduction between brain regions.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University successfully treated autism in animal models with medical cannabis oil, improving behavioral and biochemical parameters. The treatment showed significant improvement in compulsive and anxious behaviors, and a decrease in the concentration of the arousing neurotransmitter glutamate.
Scientists have discovered a brain protein, CNTNAP2, that quiets overactive brain cells and is at abnormally low levels in children with autism. The protein can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid, making it a potential biomarker for diagnosing autism and treating epilepsy.
A study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that only 8% of pediatric healthcare providers feel prepared to assess autistic patients' readiness to drive. The researchers suggest developing resources to prepare providers and families for transportation decisions, which could improve psychosocial, health, and employment outcomes.
Research shows autistic adults on Medicaid have higher odds of co-occurring physical and mental health conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and epilepsy, compared to the general population. Racial and ethnic disparities are also evident, with Black, Hispanic, and Asian adults facing higher odds of certain conditions.
Researchers have identified a key protein in the brain that regulates habituation, a mechanism essential for focus and attention. The study found that a decrease in this protein leads to hypersensitivity and symptoms similar to those seen in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Researchers found correlations between brain morphology and sensory characteristics in adults with ASD, suggesting structural changes may cause sensory abnormalities. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for ASD beyond behavioral indicators.
A study by UC Riverside researchers shows that reactivating the Fmr1 gene in young transgenic mice with Fragile X syndrome eliminates symptoms. This breakthrough treatment offers hope for young children living with FXS and suggests targeting early brain development may be effective.
Researchers have found consistent patterns in GABAergic neuron development between humans and mice, shedding light on the causes of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia. The study uses single-cell RNA sequencing to create detailed maps of gene expression during human brain development.
An experimental drug called NAP has been found effective in treating a broad spectrum of symptoms related to autism, intellectual disability, and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that NAP normalizes brain function in mice modeling ADNP syndrome, a rare disorder linked to these conditions.
Children with autism benefit from group-based weight management and family-centered nutrition education, which improves eating habits and exercise motivation. The program's success rate is higher among families who complete the entire program, indicating its potential as an adjunct or alternative to traditional interventions.
Children with autism spectrum disorder should be screened for abnormally high or low cholesterol levels, according to physicians. Research found reduced HDL-C levels in individuals with ASD, indicating a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found damage to a brain part that regulates hyperactivity contributes to both memory issues and seizures in the most common form of epilepsy. This discovery may lead to earlier diagnosis and new treatments for epilepsy and related disorders.
Studies in mouse models found that maternal immune activation can alter brain development and lead to autism-like behavioral symptoms. The research also revealed a link between maternal microbiome changes and offspring's susceptibility to intestinal inflammation, with increased IL-17a production by T cells.