Articles tagged with Autism
Astrocytes play a key role in forming synapses between neurons. A new study has discovered that hepaCAM, a crucial protein, is essential for their communication and coordination. Lacking this molecule, astrocytes fail to form connections, leading to brain disorders like epilepsy and autism spectrum disorders.
A recent study found that mothers with psychiatric disorders had a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delay in their children. In contrast, antidepressant use was not associated with an increased risk of ASD. The research provides reassurance for pregnant women taking SSRIs.
A Canadian research team has identified a critical period in postnatal brain development that contributes to neurodevelopmental disorders associated with tuberous sclerosis. The study suggests that a mutation in the TSC1 gene disrupts the mTOR signaling pathway, leading to abnormal cell proliferation and synaptic connections defects.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center identified a common mechanism underlying a spectrum of brain disorders caused by variations in the SLC6A1 gene. Boosting transporter function via genetic or pharmacological means may be beneficial in treating these disorders.
A new study by researchers at MIT's Picower Institute advances understanding of how a mammalian brain enables visual recognition memory. As novel patterns become familiar, the transition is marked by stark changes in the visual cortex, including a shift from gamma rhythms to lower frequency beta rhythms.
Researchers link sleep problems in autism to glial cells, blood-brain barrier, and serotonin, finding that high levels of serotonin cause sleep fragmentation. The study suggests a potential treatment for adults with autism-related sleep disorders.
A nutritional supplement, IQed Smart Nutrition, has been found to improve expressive speech and communication skills for people with autism, apraxia, and ADHD. The supplement reported improvements in 83.8% of respondents, with the highest observed improvement being 88.1% in vocalizations.
University of Houston researcher Beau Alward aims to use African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni to study social disorders like autism. He plans to utilize CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to create a genetic model of social dysfunction, allowing for a more precise understanding of genes involved.
Autistic children who are bilingual show improved theory of mind and executive function skills compared to monolingual peers. Bilingualism enables children to partially compensate for deficits in these areas, allowing them to focus on one language while inhibiting another.
A new study found that autistic individuals have difficulty recognizing angry facial expressions produced at a normal 'real-world' speed, while those with alexithymia perceive all expressions as more intensely emotional. The researchers suggest that recognizing anger is a specific challenge for autism.
A national database analysis reveals a cumulative incidence of 2.75% for autism spectrum disorders among children born between 2009 and 2014. The study found regional differences and an increasing trend over the years, with the proportion of diagnosed individuals showing a significant increase globally.
Researchers are using machine learning to identify mouse pups' cries that may predict social abnormalities in autism. The study aims to develop a diagnostic algorithm for ASD, enabling early intervention and potentially improving outcomes.
Researchers found that the defective Cullin 3 gene leads to increased levels of Plastin 3, causing neurons to migrate slower and accumulating in the cortex. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorder and may pave the way for therapeutic treatments.
UVA Children's is part of a national network aiming to improve autism care by quickly applying the latest research and best practices. The network focuses on managing common symptoms like hyperactivity, irritability, and anxiety in children with autism.
Researchers analyzed genetic data from over 2,300 individuals with autism, identifying missense variants in 398 genes that may impact phenotypes. Patients with these variants tend to have lower IQ scores, shedding light on the complex relationship between mutations and autism severity.
Researchers discovered that mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to schizophrenia in patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, who are 25 times more likely to develop the condition. Increased mitochondrial biogenesis is associated with the absence of schizophrenia.
A genetic mutation associated with autism can inhibit the release of oxytocin, a peptide that regulates social behavior, and cause abnormal social behavior in mice. This finding suggests that CAPS2 protein plays a critical role in facilitating the release of peripheral oxytocin into the bloodstream.
The study reveals that shootin1a mechanically links polymerizing actin with cell adhesion molecules in dendritic spines, enhancing coupling and allowing structural plasticity. This finding is significant as changes in dendritic spine plasticity have been implicated in various neurological disorders.
Researchers evaluated the use of positive behavior supports to promote face covering compliance among school-aged children with autism spectrum disorders and/or ADHD. The study found that this approach was feasible and effective, leading to improved mask-wearing adherence.
Research from the University of Cambridge found that autistic adults are more likely to have atypical eating patterns and sleep disturbance, increasing their risk of cardiovascular conditions. The study suggests promoting healthy choices may help reduce excess health risks in autistic adults.
Researchers found that pediatricians are more likely to refer toddlers for evaluation if parents independently express concerns, leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. The Get SET Early program, a simple screening tool, has been linked to improved outcomes for children with ASD.
Researchers discovered that a specific gene mutation, EPHB2, causes autism predominantly in females, while males are less affected. The study highlights the importance of considering sex-specific differences in ASD research to develop personalized treatments.
A new study by Case Western Reserve University researchers highlights the need for improved access to Medicaid waivers for families affected by autism spectrum disorder. The study found that having a Medicaid waiver and high school enrollment were key predictors of youth with autism and their families using available services.
A UTEP study published in Perceptual and Motor Skills found that children with autism exhibit highly individualized responses to live animation biofeedback when learning motor skills. The results suggest that each child with autism requires tailored instruction to overcome their unique motor learning characteristics.
A recent study found that children on the autism diagnostic border exhibit dynamic presentations of clinical features, leading to increased susceptibility of gaining or losing their diagnosis over time. The researchers used machine learning to empirically characterize the classification boundary between ASD and non-ASD participants.
Researchers at Duke University developed a digital app that assesses eye gaze patterns of young children to identify potential autism symptoms. The app uses computer vision and machine learning to track attention patterns, potentially providing an early screening tool for autism.
Researchers developed an eye-tracking app that can screen children at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by tracking their gaze patterns while watching social videos. The study found that children with ASD were less likely to focus on social cues and visually track conversations in the videos.
A study published by Stanford Medicine has found no link between epidural use during childbirth and an increased risk of autism in children. The research controlled for various socioeconomic, medical, and family factors, including genetic influences, to reach this conclusion.
A population-based study of Canadian children found no link between epidural pain relief during labor and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders. The study analyzed multiple databases and concluded that epidural use did not increase the likelihood of autism.
Research suggests that autism develops differently in girls and boys, with distinct genetic profiles and brain mechanisms at play. Girls with ASD exhibit unique responses to social cues and have different genetic contributors to the condition.
A new study by Yale researchers found that girls with autism tend to develop the condition in a different region of the brain than boys, with a larger number of genetic mutations. The findings suggest that girls may have a natural protective effect against developing autism.
Researchers are investigating how oxytocin and dopamine act in the brain's reward circuits to make social interactions rewarding for males and females. The project has the potential to provide new mechanisms for understanding well-known sex differences in neuropsychiatric disorders and spur the development of gender-specific treatments.
Scientists discovered three molecules involved in olfactory imprinting during critical periods in mice, which can modulate adult social behaviors. Oxytocin and signaling molecule Sema7A play a crucial role in forming sensory maps and neural circuits.
Researchers found that damage to the autism-associated gene Dyrk1a leads to abnormal growth-factor signaling, undergrowth of neurons and brain, and eventually autism-like behaviors in mice. An existing drug, a growth hormone, restored normal brain growth in the affected mice.
The International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) 2021 Annual Meeting brought together over 1,300 authors from 30 countries to share their research and discoveries on autism spectrum disorder. Keynote speakers included Dr. Stormy J. Chamberlain, Dr. Tony Charman, Dr. Petrus J de Vries, and Dr. Lucina Q. Uddin.
Scientists identified microRNA-29 as a powerful controller of brain maturation, which was found to be depleted in mice with autism-like symptoms. The study suggests that boosting levels of miR-29 could lead to therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.
A new study has demonstrated a correlation between autism spectrum disorder and changes in the gut microbiome. The researchers found that individuals with autism exhibited differences in gut microbiome composition compared to neurotypical controls, with gastrointestinal symptoms being significantly higher in those with autism. Longitud...
A study found that young people with autism spectrum disorder adapted better than expected to lockdown conditions, improving their communication and relationships with families. Technological support and increased family time also played a role in their well-being.
Research using three mouse models of neurodevelopmental disorders found distinct basal metabolism patterns, with varying energy expenditure and fat utilization. The studies suggest all three models may exhibit mitochondrial dysfunction, highlighting the need for personalized treatments and diagnostic methods.
A new study found that autistic adults are often misjudged due to stereotypical behaviors, leading to disadvantage in the legal system. The researchers argue that these behaviors can be misinterpreted by judges and juries, resulting in harsher sentences for autistic individuals.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other psychiatric comorbidities responded well to Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) treatment, experiencing significant improvements in OCD and mood symptoms.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified a specific node in the human brain that modulates sounds made in social situations. This discovery may lead to better treatments for social disorders like depression and autism by understanding how emotions are regulated.
Researchers developed a computational model to simulate cell division and apoptosis in the cerebral cortex, finding that early cell death influences brain structure. The study replicated various brain structures in rats, macaques, and humans.
A Northern Arizona University researcher is working to increase participation of neurodivergent students in STEM fields. The project aims to provide interventions such as minimizing changes to routines and continuity, offering options for assignment completion and assessment, and providing different types of learning material.
A new longitudinal study published in JAMA Open suggests that 80% of children with autism experience growth or proficiency in at least one developmental domain by mid childhood. The study also found that 23% of children are doing well in four or more domains, highlighting a strengths-based approach to autism assessment.
A study of over 7 million children found that autism prevalence varies across ethnic groups, with Black and Chinese pupils more likely to be autistic. Autistic children also face significant social disadvantage.
A recent study published in Biology of Sex Differences suggests that DHA supplementation during periods of high stress may reverse the negative impact of maternal stress on unborn males. Researchers found that exposure to prenatal distress decreased placenta and embryo weight in males but not females, while DHA groups showed a reversal...
Research investigated associations between maternal hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children, including autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The study found significant links between these conditions, highlighting the importance of prenatal care for fetal health.
University of Ottawa researchers discovered a shortage in noradrenaline released to the motor cortex from the locus coeruleus, leading to delayed motor learning in autistic children. This delay can cause social isolation and may be overlooked due to its similarity to social deficits.
A study by researchers from the University of Queensland found that schizophrenia and personality disorders were the most disabling mental health conditions. The study used a new method to measure disability, known as the Health Loss Proportion (HeLP), which takes comorbidities into account.
Researchers found that a widely used technique for autism screening is being misused, leading to potential misdiagnoses. The University of Bath team calls for an urgent review and recommends using the correct cut-off score of '6 or above' instead of NICE's 'more than 6 out of 10'.
Researchers mapped over 400 patients with SCN2A-related disorders, linking genetic abnormalities to clinical features. The study provided a framework for precision medicine approaches to help individuals with these conditions.
A systematic review of autistic people's internet use reveals benefits like increased control and calm during interactions, as well as opportunities for forming online communities. However, findings also suggest some individuals remain lonely despite online connections.
Researchers found that adolescents with autism exhibit greater brain activity during proactive executive control tasks, suggesting a unique approach rather than impairment. The study also revealed enhanced connectivity between regions associated with reactive control processes in individuals with autism.
Research suggests autistic individuals, particularly females, exhibit unique neural connections and reduced default network activity compared to neurotypical males. These findings indicate a combination of sex-dependent and independent effects on brain connectivity in autism.
Researchers highlight the effectiveness of music-based interventions in neurorehabilitation, including improvements in sensorimotor, speech/language, and cognitive functions. Studies show that music therapy can enhance executive functioning, affective responding, and motor skills in patients with post-stroke cognition and autism.
A study analyzing survey data from 2014-2019 found significant racial/ethnic disparities in autism spectrum disorder rates. The research estimated changes in these disparities over time, providing insight into the impact of diversity on autism diagnosis and prevalence.
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have identified a new molecular driver of frontal circuit maturation that is essential for cognitive function. By selectively suppressing communication via nicotinic receptors in the frontal circuit, attention deficits caused by Fragile X syndrome can be prevented in animal models.
A recent study published in Emotion found that people tend to produce happy and angry expressions more rapidly, while sad expressions are produced more slowly. The ability to form judgements about people's facial expressions has close links with the speeds at which those expressions are produced.
A team of genetics researchers found that evolutionary forces drive a gender imbalance in health conditions, with men being more vulnerable to physical and mental health issues. This imbalance is due to the human genome's favoring of different characteristics in males and females, making men more susceptible to various conditions.