Articles tagged with Autism
A recent study has identified the RAB39b gene as a critical regulator of early brain development, with mutations leading to macrocephaly and autism spectrum disorder. The research used mouse models and human brain organoids to demonstrate how this gene disrupts neural progenitor cell growth and differentiation.
A new genetic map of psychiatric disorders has been completed by an international study involving 230,000 patients worldwide. The research identified 109 genetic variants associated with eight psychiatric disorders, including autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
A new study published in Experimental Results journal found that a commonly used autism screening tool, the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ10) questionnaire, lacks reliability in measuring autistic personality traits. The researchers suggest that new systems are needed to better capture the range of autistic traits across the population.
Purdue University researcher Alexander Chubykin is working on developing new biomarkers to diagnose autism and schizophrenia. He believes understanding how the brain predicts future events can help individuals with these disorders better navigate their environments and manage sensory overload.
A University of Missouri researcher has created a new approach to reducing problem behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder. The flexible intervention technique emphasizes momentary check-ins, allowing parents and caregivers more flexibility to implement the strategy. This can help minimize self-inflicted harm and social sti...
Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes report that reducing levels of tau protein prevents core autism symptoms, seizures, and other abnormalities in mouse models. The findings suggest promise as a potential treatment for some forms of autism.
A new study reveals a neural circuit that underlies sensory hypersensitivity in mice with autism-like traits. The research suggests that reestablishing normal levels of neuron activity could reverse this kind of hypersensitivity, providing a potential target for developing treatments.
Researchers at USC developed personalized learning robots for children with autism, which could autonomously gauge engagement in long-term therapeutic interventions. The robots achieved 90% accuracy in detecting a child's interest in tasks.
Researchers use lab-grown 'mini-brains' to detect harmful side effects of paroxetine on developing brain cells, revealing reduced synapse growth and support-cell populations. The study suggests mini-brains as a promising alternative to animal testing for detecting neurodevelopmental effects of drugs.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital used cutting-edge imaging technology to detect abnormally low levels of a key protein in the brains of young men with autism. The study suggests that these low levels may be linked to inflammation and metabolism, and could have important implications for understanding the origins of autism.
A new non-invasive eye scan could identify autism in children up to 5 years earlier than current methods, using a hand-held device to detect subtle electrical signals in the retina. The scan was tested on 180 people with and without autism between 5-21 years old.
A UMass Amherst study found that prenatal phthalate exposure is associated with autistic traits in young boys, but adequate folic acid supplementation during early pregnancy may mitigate these effects. The study analyzed data from over 2,000 pregnant women and followed the development of their children until age 3 and 4.
In a study published in PLOS Genetics, researchers found that the NCBP2 gene acts as a key modifier, influencing the impact of other genes in a large genetic deletion. This suggests that neurodevelopmental disorders, such as schizophrenia and autism, result from complex interactions among multiple genes rather than individual genes.
A UCLA-led study found that the Foxp1 gene controls growth of the embryonic brain and is involved in timing of neuron production. The research revealed that both too much and too little Foxp1 affects neural stem cell replication and formation of specific neurons.
A new AAN guideline provides recommendations for treating sleep problems in children and teens with autism. The guideline suggests starting with behavior-modification strategies, such as setting a consistent sleep routine, before considering medication like melatonin.
A University of Granada study found that gluten- and casein-free diets do not affect the behavior of autistic children. However, those with associated gastrointestinal disorders may benefit from such an approach. The research also suggests a link between intestinal permeability and beta-casomorphin levels in urine.
Researchers have developed a system to conduct fMRI scans on conscious mice, allowing for the study of brain network dysfunction and neural responses to social cues in autism-model mice. Administration of D-cycloserine was shown to improve social behaviors, highlighting potential therapeutic applications.
The CHICA system, developed by Regenstrief Institute and IU School of Medicine, increased autism screening rates from zero to 100% at 24 months of age. The computerized decision support tool improved health inequities by automating the screening process, making it more accessible for underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities.
Researchers mapped 102 new autism genes in a major international study, revealing new insights into the disorder's biology. The findings could lead to earlier diagnoses and more precise treatments for individuals with autism.
A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that a program combining horseback riding and cognitive training improved motor skills, behavior, and academic performance in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The program showed promise for improving the lives of young people with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered a unique pattern of DNA damage that arises in brain cells derived from individuals with macrocephalic form of autism spectrum disorder. The observation helps explain what might go awry in the brain during cell division and development to cause the disorder.
Researchers examine social interaction in autism, finding that successful interactions revolve around partner compatibility and not just individual skill sets. Autistic adults prefer interacting with other autistic peers, disclosing more about themselves and feeling closer to their partners compared to typically developing individuals.
Researchers identified a tiny gene fragment impacting brain development and information processing in individuals with autism. The finding may lead to new treatments by targeting a specific microexon that contributes to social behavior and learning deficits.
A study published in Neural Computation found that the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) test has flaws, including non-normal scores and clinician influence on diagnoses. The researchers propose combining clinical observations with wearable technology to make data collection less invasive and improve diagnosis reliability
Researchers find that bumetanide reduces symptoms of autism by decreasing GABA to glutamate ratio, improving brain function and social communication. The treatment has been shown to be safe and effective in reducing symptoms in children as young as three years old.
Researchers identified 102 genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including 49 linked to developmental delays. The large international cohort of nearly 12,000 ASD participants enabled the team to increase the number of associated genes from 65 in 2015.
A KU Leuven study found that oxytocin significantly reduced repetitive behavior and improved attachment in men with autism. The treatment showed long-term effects up to a year after administration.
A new study analyzing the first 1,000 participants in the Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment (RI-CART) identifies key trends in the presentation and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Girls with autism receive a diagnosis, on average, nearly 1.5 years later than boys, likely due to advanced language abilities.
A Texas policy reducing anti-psychotic medications for foster children showed a 5-8% decrease in non-FDA indicated prescriptions while preserving medication use for those with approved indications.
A new study suggests that an adapted form of low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy can be effective in helping autistic adults with co-occurring depression. The intervention, called Guided Self-Help, aims to reduce depression by encouraging individuals to schedule activities that boost positive mood and become more aware of trigg...
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School and NNI discovered that misregulated potassium ion channel activity causes seizures in AS patients. Suppressing this activity could potentially resolve seizures, benefiting people with autism as well.
A new study reveals that autistic mothers experience higher rates of post-natal depression, with 60% reporting difficulties in coping with domestic responsibilities and creating social opportunities. Despite challenges, many reported prioritizing their child's needs and seeking help when needed.
A Rutgers study found nearly 25% of autistic children under age 8 were not diagnosed, highlighting disparities in diagnosis rates for black and Hispanic youth. Researchers suggest screening all toddlers and using patient navigators can help reduce these gaps in care.
A pilot study from the University of Central Florida found that judo lessons increased moderate to vigorous physical activity among children with autism, reducing sedentary time. Participants also showed improved social interaction skills and comfort with physical contact.
Research by Rutgers University found that families caring for children with autism spectrum disorder experience high levels of emotional burnout, social isolation, and financial strain. Families with more than one caregiver tend to fare better in terms of emotional well-being.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that children with autism have trouble entering deep sleep and exhibit shallow brain waves, leading to severe sleep disturbances. The study suggests that increasing daytime physical activity, behavioral therapies, and pharmacological alternatives may help generate deeper sleep.
A recent NIH-funded study analyzing data from 366 identical twin pairs found significant variability in autism symptom severity among those with ASD. The researchers estimated that only 9% of the cause of trait variation was attributed to genetic factors.
A team of scientists has developed a way to quantify disease-causing mutations found only in the sperm of fathers, providing a more accurate assessment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk in future children. The method uses deep whole genome sequencing and reveals that up to 15% of fathers' sperm cells contain such mutations.
A recent study by MU researcher Nancy Cheak-Zamora found that many young adults with autism struggle to achieve independence due to a disconnect between caregiver support and individual efforts. The research recommends shifting the perception towards strengths and skill sets, providing opportunities for mastery of tasks like cooking an...
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers identified over 100 genetic variants that increase the risk for more than one psychiatric disorder. The study found that many distinct psychiatric diseases share a common genetic structure, with genes producing multiple effects in the body.
A new study found a significant shortage of therapists to treat children with autism, with substantial variation across states and regions. The study suggests that higher public education spending and median household income are associated with more certified Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) providers per capita.
Researchers have discovered a common genetic link between autism and Tourette's Syndrome, which impairs brain communication. Ketamine or related drugs may be a useful treatment for both conditions.
Marci B. Jerome, Severe Disabilities Program Coordinator at George Mason University, has received a $454,955 grant to help teachers prepare for supporting students with severe disabilities and autism through the Virginia Consortium for Teacher Preparation in Special Education Adapted Curriculum.
A mutated gene, USP9X, regulates a network of genes underlying Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Focusing on this network may lead to therapy developments for neurological disorders.
Northwestern University scientists discovered genetic mutations in the Usp9x gene lead to reduced synapses and increased anxiety in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This research provides a crucial understanding of the biological basis of intellectual disabilities and mental illness, potentially leading to new treatment options.
A new study found that genetic testing in infant siblings of children with autism can predict future diagnoses, allowing for earlier interventions. The study identified copy number variations linked to ASD in 7% of the tested siblings.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a significant overlap between genetic mutations causing autism and those related to Alzheimer's disease. The study found thousands of mutations in the aging brains of Alzheimer's patients, including those affecting the protein ADNP.
Researchers from iPSYCH discovered that autism and ADHD share changes in the same genes, particularly the MAP1A gene involved in nerve cell formation. The study found a significantly increased risk of developing autism and/or ADHD for those carrying mutations in this gene.
Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have identified a critical role for the Cullin 3 gene in brain development, contributing to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms underlying these complex conditions, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
A team of researchers, led by Gholson Lyon, MD, PhD, has published a study on TAF1 syndrome, identifying brain morphological abnormalities, seizures, hearing loss, and heart malformations. The findings broaden the phenotypic spectrum of TAF1/MRXS33 intellectual disability syndrome.
A study of people with prosopagnosia after stroke reveals that face blindness involves an entire network, rather than a single area, potentially opening the door for improving face recognition. The findings also suggest that face processing deficits in autism may be causal or result from the condition.
The grant will fund a conference and policy brief development to address the challenges faced by autistic individuals in the justice system. Autistic individuals are at increased risk of negative outcomes due to lack of understanding and inadequate support.
A study by Kristina Scott found that a structured group work protocol increased social interactions among four children with ASD, aged 10-11, who had been excluded from peer groups. The protocol helped them maintain meaningful conversations with peers, although three of the subjects returned to baseline after the experiment.
Researchers found that early exposure to sounds can restore molecular, cellular, and functional properties in the auditory cortex of mice with Fragile X Syndrome. This discovery suggests that facilitating exposure to sounds during early development could be a novel approach to treat hypersensitivity associated with FXS.
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University reveals that many over-50s diagnosed with autism late in life had grown up believing they were 'bad people', citing lack of support as a major issue. The research suggests receiving a diagnosis can be a positive eureka moment, bringing relief and understanding.
A pilot study found that cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improved sleep quality and behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as reduced parent fatigue. After eight sessions of therapy, 85% of the children no longer experienced insomnia, and their parents reported better sleep and reduced fatigue.
A new study by Anne Hamby and colleagues found that people are more willing to update their memories if something bad has happened to a character, such as a death or serious illness. The researchers discovered that explaining alternative causes of events can help change beliefs and promote tolerance.
A large-scale study found that people with autism spectrum disorder have less brain asymmetry, particularly in cortical thickness. The findings suggest altered development of the brain's left-right axis is involved in autism, affecting widespread brain regions.
A study of nearly 1,000 mother-child pairs found an association between fetal exposure to acetaminophen and increased risk of childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The research used umbilical cord blood samples to investigate potential developmental effects.
A recent NIH-funded study suggests that exposure to acetaminophen during pregnancy may increase the risk of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. The study found that higher levels of acetaminophen exposure were associated with a significantly increased risk of both conditions.