Articles tagged with Autism
A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that genetic variants in the Nav1.2 sodium channel are a leading cause of autism, leading to overactive sodium channels and seizures. Researchers propose developing medicines to open potassium channels as a potential treatment for these patients.
Researchers used EEG microstate analysis to study brain dynamics in pre-school children with ASD, identifying five predominant states with distinct characteristics. This segmentation of the autism spectrum provides reliable indicators for diagnosis and therapy development.
Three Lehigh University faculty members received federal grants to study reading interventions, supports for students with disabilities, and teachers of students with autism. The projects aim to improve reading growth for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Researchers at UNIGE developed an AI algorithm using automated video analysis to detect autism spectrum disorder in children under 5. The system correctly classified 80% of cases and showed a convincing result in just 10 minutes, providing an initial screening tool for parents.
A new study designed in collaboration with autistic scholars shows improvements in implicit biases about autism among the general public. The research found that autism trainings developed with autistic input were more effective at reducing implicit biases and improving explicit knowledge about autism.
Research from Drexel University's Autism Institute identifies higher odds of living in residential facilities, receiving outside caregiver services, and having high-risk health conditions among autistic adults, as well as those with intellectual disability and mental health diagnoses. These groups are more likely to contract COVID-19 a...
Researchers from HSE Centre for Language and Brain compared expressive and receptive language abilities in Russian-speaking children with ASD. The study shows that there is no single expressive-receptive language pattern in children with ASD, but the difference depends on linguistic level.
Researchers have created brain organoids from people with 16p11.2 genomic variations, which exhibit differences in brain size seen in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study revealed new information about molecular mechanisms that malfunction when this region is disrupted, providing opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
A study published in Autism Research investigated over 925,000 births in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, finding that delayed pregnancies by 2.5 to three years reduced the sibling's risk of autism diagnosis by up to nine percent
Anjana Bhat is studying the prevalence and relationship of motor problems in children with ASD. Her research aims to alter the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders definition of ASD by including motor impairments.
This observational study found no association between prenatal antipsychotic exposure and increased risk of preterm birth, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study's findings suggest that antipsychotics during pregnancy do not pose a significant risk to fetal development.
Researchers found that states have implemented new autism-specific Medicaid programs, with the most common type being the 1915(c) waiver authority, providing home and community-based services. The study suggests that further replication of successful efforts is needed to improve access to services for individuals on the autism spectrum.
A study of over 200 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) found key differences in their fine motor control and eye movements compared to neurotypical peers. The research highlights the importance of considering multiple systems, including feedback and feed-forward systems, in understanding sensorimotor deficits in ASD.
A new study comparing pitch and duration imitations in speech and song has found that autistic individuals perform differently in two categories: relative pitch and absolute pitch. Autistic children and adults showed better performance with relative pitch, while struggling with absolute pitch across both domains.
The article considers the ethical issues surrounding enrolling children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and fragile X syndrome, in clinical trials. Parents may face difficult decisions about whether to enroll their children due to concerns about potential loss of positive aspects of their condition.
A study published in Scientific Reports has developed a neural network model that explains how individuals with autism spectrum disorder recognize facial expressions. The model, based on predictive processing theory, demonstrates that abnormalities in brain activity lead to difficulties in identifying emotions from facial cues.
A national study funded by a $9-million award will compare two suicide prevention interventions for autistic individuals, SPI-ASD and SPI-ASD+, across four health systems. The study aims to develop effective interventions for autistic youth at risk for suicide.
Researchers developed a new screening system to evaluate 'perspective taking' difficulties in autistic adults, using a simple questionnaire and short clips. The tool showed limitations in drawing inferences from stimuli are predictive of individuals' social-behavioural and interpersonal interaction difficulties.
A pilot study from North Carolina State University found that a gene associated with autism spectrum disorder and pain hypersensitivity may decrease itch response. Contactin-associated protein 2 (CNTNAP2) is expressed in sensory neurons responsible for transmitting sensations of both pain and itch.
Researchers have discovered a rare class of inherited genetic variants associated with autism, revealing new potential causes and pathways. These variants, less damaging than previously thought, contribute almost as much risk to the condition.
A study published in Gut journal found that children with autism have a distinctive and underdeveloped range of gut bacteria, significantly fewer linked to neurotransmitter activity. This characteristic microbial profile may play a role in social behaviors and warrants further investigation.
A recent study published in eNeuro found that male-derived brain cells exhibit a stronger synaptogenic response to thrombospondin-2 compared to female-derived cells. This difference is driven by how neurons respond to the protein, resulting in varying synaptic formation mechanisms between sexes.
A human variant of the SUV39H2 gene has been linked to autism spectrum disorders, causing cognitive inflexibility in mice and misregulated expression of genes related to brain development. The study suggests that histone methylation plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, and its absence may lead to serious problems.
A study published in The BMJ Paediatrics Open found that the Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (Q-CHAT) can detect autism at 18-30 months, but not all children who will be diagnosed later. The Q-CHAT shows promise for early detection and diagnosis of autism.
A Rutgers researcher found that penicillin alters the microbiome and gene expression in key brain areas, potentially leading to neurodevelopment problems. This study suggests reducing antibiotic use or alternatives could prevent these issues.
A new study reveals that autistic personality traits are unrelated to environmental attitudes but can be linked to lower engagement in pro-environmental behaviors. The researchers emphasize the need for practical support, such as adapting cognitive behavioral therapy and early environmental education, to help individuals with autism an...
Researchers found that chlorpyrifos, a common pesticide, amplifies the effect of CHD8 gene mutations, leading to reduced protein levels in brain organoids. This study highlights the potential role of genetic and environmental interactions in autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers at Kobe University have identified a causal gene, Necdin (NDN), associated with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. The study reveals that the NDN gene regulates synapse development during critical developmental stages.
Researchers compared two treatment types for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and found no significant differences in outcomes. The study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, shows that common elements may be more important than differences in intervention styles.
A new study published in Autism Research found that attention training in autistic children aged 8-14 led to notable improvements in math, reading, writing, and overall attention. The researchers developed a computer programme called CPAT, which showed significant results in both immediate and long-term assessments.
Researchers found similar circuit malfunctions in the thalamus of mice with genes mutated for autism and schizophrenia. This discovery could lead to developing drugs targeting this circuit to treat people with different disorders.
A new study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology researchers found that dopamine levels are linked to passion and goal achievement in men, which may explain the higher prevalence of autism diagnoses in males. The study also found no significant gender difference in passion or grit among women.
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 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.
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.
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.