Articles tagged with Autism
A study from Cardiff University found that more than half of individuals with certain genetic conditions had significant autistic symptoms, despite not meeting formal diagnostic criteria. The research emphasizes the need for an individualized approach to assessing the needs of people with genetic conditions.
Dr. Genova will develop a strength-based intervention to improve job interview skills for adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. The K18 award supports her research project at the University of Michigan School of Social Work's Level Up Lab.
Research identifies two causal genes, CHD3 and CHD8, contributing to Chiari 1 malformation. Children with unusually large heads are four times more likely to be diagnosed with the condition. The study's findings may lead to new ways to identify people at risk before serious symptoms arise.
A study at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that specific functional units within genes, called exons, can impact autism severity. The researchers analyzed genetic and clinical data from over 2,500 people with autism and discovered that children with truncating mutations in the same exon often exhibit similar symptoms.
Studies using longitudinal brain scans found a subtype of autism characterized by disproportionate megalencephaly and slower development in white matter tracts. Researchers also linked changes in white matter growth with autism traits and symptom severity.
A new computational model reveals how the brain maintains short-term information using specific types of neurons, including inhibitory neurons. Good working memory requires long-timescale neurons to be prevalent and strong connections between these neurons.
Researchers from the University of Queensland found that a vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy caused an increase in testosterone levels in male rats, potentially contributing to the higher prevalence of Autism spectrum disorder in boys. Vitamin D plays a critical role in brain development and may help prevent ASD-like traits when su...
A population-based study found that comorbid non-affective psychoses and affective/anxiety disorders increased the risk for self-harm in autistic adolescents and young adults. The risk was highest among females and those with intellectual disability, linked to natural causes rather than accidental death.
A new longitudinal study found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience significant cognitive gains between ages 12 and 23, with IQ increasing by an average of 7.48 points. Early language regression and greater communication problems at age 12 were associated with greater IQ increases.
Scientists created brain organoids from patients with Rett syndrome to study the disease and identify potential treatments. The study found two drug candidates, Nefiracetam and PHA 543613, that restored calcium levels, neurotransmitter production, and electrical impulse activity in the organoids.
A new research study found a connection between repetitive behaviors and gastrointestinal problems in children with autism. The study also found that increased severity of other autism symptoms was associated with more severe constipation, stomach pain and other gut difficulties.
Researchers applied the Perturb-Seq method to study dozens of genes associated with autism spectrum disorder, identifying how specific cell types in the developing mouse brain are impacted by mutations. The study found that both neurons and glia are directly affected by different sets of risk genes.
A study analyzed autism diagnoses in California from 1992 to 2018, revealing a non-uniform increase in incidence rates across sociodemographic groups. The results showed that more children of Black and Asian mothers, as well as those from low socioeconomic status, were diagnosed with autism.
A study published in mSphere found that gut microbiota from healthy donors can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through microbial transfer therapy (MTT). The research showed significant metabolic changes in plasma samples and modest alterations in fecal samples after the procedure.
Researchers analyzed ABR tests of nearly 140,000 newborns in Florida and found slower brain responses to sounds in those later diagnosed with autism. The study presents a promising direction in using ABR testing as a method for precise autism detection at birth.
Researchers found that mid-range levels of an immune marker at birth are associated with the lowest risk for autism spectrum disorder. Babies born with high levels of inflammation had a higher risk of developing ASD.
Researchers used zebrafish with genetic mutations similar to those found in humans with Fragile X syndrome and autism to study sound sensitivity. The study revealed that the brains of these fish processed auditory information differently than normal fish, with more activity in the hindbrain and thalamus.
Researchers found connections between autism types and abnormalities in parvocellular oxytocin neurons, which regulate platonic love and sociability. The study could fuel the development of autism therapies targeting disease symptoms spurred on by these brain cells.
Research on Prader-Willi and Angelman syndromes reveals associations between UBE3A gene expression levels and social communication difficulties in PWS, as well as fine motor skills impairment in AS. The study's findings suggest a potential link between inflammatory pathways and disease severity in these conditions.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that women with epilepsy who take valproic acid during pregnancy are at double the risk of having children with autism spectrum disorder and nearly double the risk of ADHD. The research used data from over 14,000 children born to mothers with epilepsy between 1996 and 2011.
A study published in PLOS Biology found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder show reduced flexible behavior due to less optimal learning. The research used a developmental approach and examined flexible behavior on a probabilistic reversal learning task in children, adolescents, and adults with ASD.
Researchers at the University of Barcelona have identified new genes in the BEX/TCEAL cluster that are related to autism spectrum disorder and other neurological diseases. The study used animal models to describe molecular mechanisms involved in the development of the neocortex in humans and other placental mammals.
Researchers found a distinct DNA methylation signature in cord blood of newborns with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), spanning regions linked to early fetal neurodevelopment. The findings may hold clues for early diagnosis and intervention.
Research from Duke University Medical Center found that children with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder visit doctors more often in their first year of life. This suggests a potential new method for identifying the conditions earlier, which could lead to improved outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Researchers compared two popular autism interventions and found that more intensive treatment did not lead to better results. The study, led by UC Davis Health, suggests that therapists can adapt their approaches to meet individual child needs.
Researchers found a substantial increase in the percentage of adults with autism receiving Medicaid services from 2008-2012. The study showed higher prevalence among younger adults (18-24) and lower among older adults (41-64).
A new study suggests that nerves responsible for sensing touch and pain may contribute to the development of autism. The exploratory study found that people with autism have differences in their sensory perception, including reduced nerve fiber density and altered responses to heat and touch.
A MU researcher developed a world's first health care transition readiness assessment for adolescents with autism, identifying skills needed for transition from pediatric care to adult care. The study found that young adults with autism can benefit from better understanding medication management, insurance policies and health care fina...
A joint statement from prominent medical organizations assures pregnant women that labor epidurals do not cause autism. The statement rejects the idea that epidurals could be linked to autism spectrum disorders in offspring, citing a lack of credible evidence.
Two new studies reveal that the choroid plexus, a miniature organ in the brain, is a hotbed of immune system activity. The choroid plexus regulates brain development by secreting instructive cues into the cerebrospinal fluid and provides a protective barrier. However, when this barrier is challenged, the choroid plexus can act as a con...
A new article offers practical guidance on avoiding ableist language in autism research, which can lead to stigmatization and exclusion of autistic individuals. The authors aim to reduce misunderstanding and improve communication by providing researchers with tools to use more inclusive language.
A Rutgers researcher developed a virtual training program to help parents of children with autism spectrum disorder improve behavioral skills. The study found that parents who received the telehealth training showed significant improvements compared to those who did not receive training.
Researchers found a connection between amino acid metabolism and joint hypermobility in autistic children, with increased levels of hydroxyproline linked to joint issues. The study suggests that amino acid balance may be an additional tool for ASD therapy.
A new study has found that autistic people's sensorimotor difficulties are likely caused by complex neurobiological processes, including differences in perception. This discovery could pave the way for better treatment and management of these traits.
Researchers from KAIST applied deep learning techniques to identify abnormal brain structures associated with autism. These findings suggest AI can aid in more consistent diagnoses than human observations alone. The analysis tool provides a prognosis of how the condition could develop.
A study of over 3.5 million Nordic children found a slight increase in autism risk for each week of gestation before or after 40 weeks, regardless of sex or birth weight. The relative risk was highest for children born at 22-31 weeks and lowest for those born post-term (after 42 weeks), with an overall low ASD incidence of 1.44%.
Researchers have identified a potential early biomarker, FABP4, for detecting autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in preschool-aged children. Lower levels of FABP4 were found in the blood of children with ASD compared to typically developing children.
A new study reveals that autistic individuals are 1.5 to 4.3 times more likely to have chronic physical health conditions, including low blood pressure, arrhythmias, asthma, and prediabetes. Autistic females also face increased risks of these conditions, depending on their biological sex.
A clinical trial indicates that a combination of stem cell therapy and educational intervention can significantly improve social communication, language, and daily skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study found positive changes in various aspects after stem cell transplantation combined with educational interve...
A large Swedish study found no association between H1N1 influenza vaccination during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder in the offspring. Researchers adjusted for potential confounders to minimize influence from other factors.
AUC Riverside researchers find ephrin-B1 regulates E/I balance in hippocampus, leading to seizures and social abnormalities. The study provides new insights into mechanisms behind neurodevelopmental disorders.
Children born to mothers with PCOS are at a higher risk of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, including emotional problems, autism, ADHD, and delayed development. The study found a significant link between PCOS and increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring, independent of maternal obesity.
A new physiological test for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has shown promise, accurately identifying 124 of 131 children with ASD regardless of co-occurring medical conditions. The test measures metabolites in a blood sample and predicts diagnosis with minimal impact from other health issues.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have found a strong association between genes influencing cattle temperament and autism in humans. The study's findings could lead to improved animal welfare and meat quality by identifying genetic markers for better temperament.
Researchers found autistic nerve cells differ in structure and gene expression from typical individuals as early as 9 days into development. The study used induced pluripotent stem cells to model brain development and provides new insights into the origins of autism.
Researchers propose a simplification in measuring public attitudes towards people with autism, using a single 'thermometer scale' survey. They found that non-autistic students rated autistic people relatively favourably, averaging 71/100, but there is still a long way to go in understanding and changing negative attitudes.
Researchers developed a method to analyze social networks of autistic youth, showing how interpersonal relationships and resources can impact adult outcomes. The study found that social connections and support from family members are crucial for autistic young adults' quality of life and independence.
Researchers identify a subtype of autism associated with lipid metabolism and brain development, offering potential targets for precision-targeted therapies and earlier diagnosis. The study found notable alterations in cholesterol levels among children with autism and their parents.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a machine learning algorithm that can distinguish between different psychiatric diagnoses, including autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. The algorithm uses MRI brain scans to identify variations in brain thickness, surface area, or volume.
A UC Davis Health study found that children with autism born to mothers who had immune conditions during their pregnancy are more likely to have behavioral and emotional problems. Maternal immune conditions, such as asthma, were associated with increased behavioral and emotional problems in male offspring.
A new UC Davis Health study found that common gastrointestinal symptoms are linked to troubling sleep problems, self-harm and physical complaints in preschool children with autism. The study highlights the link between GI symptoms and some problematic behaviors in young kids with ASD.
A novel AI-enhanced precision medicine approach identifies a novel autism subtype characterized by abnormal lipid levels, providing a potential breakthrough for early diagnosis and intervention. The research also found a strong association between parental dyslipidemia and autism spectrum disorder in children.
A new study by scientists at the University of Cambridge's Autism Research Centre found that transgender and gender-diverse adults are three to six times more likely to be diagnosed as autistic. The research used data from over 600,000 adult individuals and confirmed previous smaller scale studies.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a connection between a genetic alteration and social difficulties related to autism. By targeting the oxytocin signaling pathway, they achieved promising results in an animal model and found that treatment with a pharmacological inhibitor can normalize social behavior.
Rising carbon dioxide levels and changes in the environment may contribute to increased prevalence of respiratory allergies, autoimmune diseases, and neurologic conditions such as autism. Disruptions to gut bacteria have also been linked to these disorders, highlighting the need for a greener lifestyle and reduced exposure to antimicro...
A study found that two blood epigenetic signatures associated with ADNP syndrome have only modest correlation with clinical manifestations. Researchers conclude that these signatures should be carefully evaluated before being considered as biomarkers for predicting behavioral outcomes.
Researchers found that autistic individuals tend to be more direct and precise in their emails, while non-autistic people are more likely to include social niceties. This study highlights the importance of adapting our email styles to be more respectful of others' differences.
Research suggests autistic men have greater excitability in the medial prefrontal cortex, affecting social cognition and self-reflection. Women with autism exhibit a more intact response, associated with better camouflaging of social difficulties.
Researchers found a cumulative incidence of 3.1% of autism spectrum disorders among children screened at 18 months, with impaired motor skills and social communication skills as predictive factors. Early detection through health checkups can lead to better prognosis for children with ASD.
A study suggests that a single point mutation in the Cav1.2 channel, G406R, may explain the mechanism of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The mutation causes abnormal calcium overload leading to heart problems and spontaneous gene activation, resulting in uncontrolled long-term dysregulations.