Articles tagged with Autism
A new systematic review and meta-analysis of 43 studies confirms paracetamol during pregnancy is not linked to increased risks of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities. The findings suggest alternative maternal factors may be responsible for previously reported associations.
Research finds age-related DNA methylation alterations in sperm may contribute to autism risk in offspring. Advanced paternal age is associated with specific changes in sperm DNA, influencing early development in children.
Dr. Noritaka Ichinohe challenges the long-held assumption that averaging away individual differences is necessary in psychiatric research. Instead, biological heterogeneity is seen as a phenomenon demanding explanation. The author's work on primate brain mapping and molecular subtyping has identified convergence points between species ...
Boston Children's Hospital will provide clinical research coordination for the IMPACT Network, a multisite clinical trial infrastructure enabling rapid and effective therapeutic development for autism. The grant, from ARIA, will support the development of study design protocols, recruitment strategies, and efficient workflows.
A new AI-assisted device, CanvasDx, has been shown to improve autism care access in rural Missouri communities. By reducing travel distances and processing times, families can receive diagnoses up to 5-7 months earlier.
The UCLA-led Clinical Coordinating Center will standardize clinical and data processes, accelerating the development of therapies for people with autism and related conditions.
Researchers found that ADHD enables high entrepreneurial alertness and risk-taking, while dyslexia fosters advanced delegation strategies. Bipolar traits correlate with creativity and a willingness to pursue bold ventures. The study advocates for business environments that value neurodiverse strengths, rather than seeking normalcy.
A study suggests that one in two individuals arrested and detained in London may have undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while one in 20 may have undiagnosed autism. Screening for neurodivergence could enable better support for vulnerable individuals.
A new study describes a three-hit metabolic signaling model that reframes autism as a treatable disorder of cellular communication and energy metabolism. The model suggests that up to half of all autism cases might be prevented or reduced with prenatal and early-life interventions.
A new study from City St George's University of London found that people's newspaper reading habits are a reliable predictor of their attitudes towards autism. The research reveals that around 10% of the differences in automatic, unconscious bias were linked to what newspapers people read.
A new report from the University of Maryland School of Medicine presents a five-year data model demonstrating how a state-funded, multidisciplinary care approach can improve health outcomes and quality of life for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found that this model can serv...
A new guide published by Oxford University Press provides essential resources for parents of adolescents with autism. The book covers various challenges they face during this critical period, including social connections, puberty, and sexuality. It also offers extensive lists of resources to support these young individuals.
A survey of adults in the US found that most people prefer the American Medical Association's (AMA) guidance on vaccine safety over the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC), citing concerns about the CDC's recent changes to its website. According to the survey, 35% of Americans would accept the AMA's recommendation, while...
Researchers discovered a low-dose mixture of zinc, serine, and branch-chain amino acids can alleviate behavioral deficits in mouse models of autism by promoting neuronal communication and improving social behaviors. The combination was found to be effective at low doses, whereas individual supplements had no effect.
A new study found that maternal thyroid hormones are crucial for fetal neurodevelopment, and gestational thyroid imbalance increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder. Women with persistent thyroid dysfunction across pregnancy were at a higher risk of having children with autism.
Research from the University of Cambridge reveals autistic adults report higher rates of suicide-related behaviors and psychological distress, even with no history of trauma. The study identifies unique aspects of autism that contribute to trauma's impact on mental health.
A USC study mapped tiny structural differences in white matter among children and young adults with autism, pinpointing patterns that earlier methods would have missed. The findings highlight the importance of developing new methods to better understand brain differences in autism.
Researchers at UCSF found distinctive brain patterns in children with sensory processing disorder, which could help clinicians refine treatments for tantrums and emotional volatility. The study suggests that over-responsive children's brains dial up inward-focused networks to gain self-control.
A new book by experts highlights how the prevalence of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder has increased, but suggests it may not be due to a genuine increase in cases. The authors argue that 'typical' behavior can vary greatly among children, and that acceptance and understanding of individuality is key.
Researchers conclude that the hypothesis of a causal relationship between the gut microbiome and autism is unsupported by science. Key findings include inadequate sample sizes and flawed statistical methods in studies attempting to establish this link. The authors argue for a more rigorous approach to studying this topic.
Researchers found a novel link between shared brain-gene patterns and autism symptom severity in children with autism and ADHD. The study suggests that focusing on specific symptom dimensions and their biological correlates may lead to more precise recognition and treatment approaches.
Research finds existing evidence on paracetamol use during pregnancy does not clearly link it to autism or ADHD in children; studies suggest shared genetic and environmental factors within families may explain the observed risk. Women can be advised to take paracetamol when needed for pain and fever during pregnancy.
A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found no association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and ADHD. The study offers reassurance for pregnant women, public health agenci...
A research team, including Dr. Yong Xu, will use the grant to investigate genetic changes affecting hypothalamic pathways and their impact on metabolism and behavior in humans and animals. The study aims to unravel the precise way brain wiring controls instinctive behavior across species.
Recent studies have identified hundreds of genes contributing to individual experiences of autism, as well as gene-environment interactions affecting symptoms. Additionally, decreased stigma and new screening techniques have led to more diagnoses, particularly among adults and medically underserved communities.
The Annenberg Public Policy Center survey finds that most American adults are unclear about the dangers of measles and the value of vaccination. The survey also shows a decline in support for MMR vaccination among parents, from 90% in November 2024 to 82% in August 2025.
A large cohort study found associations between prenatal fine particulate matter components and postnatal ozone exposure with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder. These findings suggest that air pollution may play a role in the etiology of autism, warranting further research.
A new study found that child neurologists often lack knowledge and education on motor difficulties in children with autism. Motor impairments are common in autistic children, affecting their development, language skills, and social interactions. The study recommends more training for medical students and residents to recognize and addr...
Researchers developed a new gene therapy that reversed symptoms related to SYNGAP1-related disorders in mice, including intellectual disability, epilepsy, and risk-taking behaviors. The therapy successfully delivered a working copy of the SYNGAP1 gene into brain cells using an adeno-associated virus, offering hope for treatment in humans.
A new study found that implicit biases impact how much effort individuals, both autistic and non-autistic, put into charitable behaviors. While explicit biases were not a factor, participants showed self-bias in decisions, prioritizing their own efforts over others.
A recent study found that a person's genetic background, rather than a single gene, plays a key role in the development of complex disorders. The research revealed patterns of secondary variants that can modify the impact of primary genetic variants on clinical outcomes.
A new study led by Mass General Brigham found that a glutamate-modulating drug called memantine may improve social functioning in youth with ASD who do not have intellectual disabilities. The treatment was associated with higher rates of improvement in social behaviors and was well-tolerated.
The AR² Center will replicate, validate and reproduce existing autism research results using various data sets. The center aims to foster public trust in the field by providing transparent communication of scientific findings.
Researchers found distinct genetic profiles for early- and late-diagnosed autism, with earlier diagnosed groups showing more social interaction difficulties in infancy and behavioral problems in adolescence. Later diagnosed individuals experienced increased social and behavioral difficulties during adolescence and higher rates of menta...
A study has created a detailed temporal map of epigenetic changes in the human brain from six weeks after conception to 108 years of age. This reveals that genes linked to autism and schizophrenia undergo dynamic DNA methylation changes during development, highlighting their role in brain cortex formation.
A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya researchers found that gestures and speech rhythms are key to helping children with DLD comprehend oral language. Intonation and head inclination can facilitate understanding of complex meanings, particularly in children with language difficulties.
Researchers manipulated the endocannabinoid signaling system in prenatal mice, leading to altered gene expression, neural properties, and social interaction deficits. This work suggests that prenatal manipulation of this system may lead to neuropsychiatric conditions, particularly those involving social deficits.
A deep learning model achieved up to 98% accuracy in distinguishing autistic from neurotypical participants, providing clear insights into brain regions most influential to its decisions. The model could benefit autistic people and clinicians by offering accurate and explainable results to inform assessment and support.
A new study published in Autism found that autistic children are more likely to experience ongoing gastrointestinal problems than their typically developing peers. These symptoms can affect sleep, communication, sensory processing and behavior, and often don't have an identified medical cause.
A study published in Science Advances reveals that an autism-linked mutation disrupts brain circuits responsible for erasing fear memories, leading to PTSD-like symptoms. By reactivating specific neurons, researchers were able to reverse the behavioral and physiological abnormalities.
A Swedish study of over 1.2 million children found no significant association between prenatal exposure to opioids and increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The researchers attributed the observed differences in ASD rates among exposed versus unexposed children to other pre...
Dr. Alex Tsompanidis proposes placental hormone production shaped human cognitive capabilities, redefining autism origins and neurodiversity. His research could lead to screening protocols and support for children with developmental differences.
A recent study found that systemic barriers hinder autistic adults' access to NHS support during mental health crises. Only one in four participants reached out to the NHS when experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
A landmark study found gestational diabetes during pregnancy is associated with declines in intellectual function for mothers and higher risks of developmental, behavioural and autism spectrum disorders in children. Mothers with GDM scored 2.47 points lower on cognitive assessments than peers without GDM.
A new report reveals a significant north-south divide in autism assessment times, with children in the North waiting an average of 54 days compared to just 13 weeks in some areas. The data also shows that girls from Pakistani heritage are 11 times less likely to receive an autism diagnosis than White British boys.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that individuals with similar levels of autistic traits are more attracted to each other and their brains synchronize in unique ways during passive and active communication. This suggests a novel approach for building social connection among people with autism by tailoring environments.
Researchers used zebrafish with a mutation in the ube3a gene to investigate how environmental factors affect social behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The study found that environmental adjustments could hold therapeutic potential for ASD-related behavioral challenges.
Scientists have identified the mechanism linking a mutation in the Shank3 gene with alterations in social behavior, revealing that vasopressin plays a crucial role in regulating sociability and aggression. The study shows that targeting specific vasopressin receptors can restore social abilities without affecting aggression.
Researchers created a comprehensive brain-wide activity map of decision-making in mice, revealing that signals are distributed across multiple brain regions. The study challenges traditional hierarchical views and highlights the importance of prior expectations in guiding behavior.
A new evidence review reveals significant gaps in knowledge and support for Autistic people experiencing menopause symptoms, with many using non-medical coping strategies. The review identifies a need for targeted resources and interventions to address the unique challenges faced by Autistic individuals during this life stage.
Diana Schendel assumes leadership of Autism Research journal with expertise in epidemiology and global autism research leadership. She aims to publish high-quality, impactful research from around the world.
A comprehensive review of 248 meta-analyses and 200 clinical trials found that most complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments for autism showed weak or poor-quality evidence, making their effects unreliable. The study also highlighted the lack of safety assessments for these treatments, which can be misleading.
Researchers at Kobe University have discovered a specific set of neurons that direct mice's attention to peers in need and those who are friends. These 'PV interneurons' play a crucial role in modulating social behavior, including empathy and preference for social targets.
Autistic adults face barriers to colonoscopies due to sensory and communication challenges, yet are less likely to receive the critical diagnostic procedure. Boston University's project aims to engage autistic voices through a national advisory board and patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research.
Researchers have found that hyperactivity in a specific brain region can drive behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder. They reversed symptoms such as seizures, sensory hypersensitivity and repetitive behaviors by suppressing this area of the brain using epilepsy drugs.
Researchers discovered a multi-faceted mechanism behind ASD, revealing the gut microbiota and host immune system's influence on disease progression. Precision-selected probiotics restored metabolic balance, reduced neuroinflammation, and ameliorated behavioral abnormalities in ASD mouse models.
Recent research highlights the challenges of communication for autistic adults, including language and nonverbal barriers. Experts recommend a multifaceted approach to support autistic individuals, focusing on adaptations that accommodate their differences.
The University of Houston is expanding its behavioral health offerings with new ABA training programs, addressing growing need for behavior analysts. Salaries range from $63,000-$77,000 annually, with autism diagnoses on the rise due to improved screenings and assessments.
A new study suggests that prenatal exposure to acetaminophen may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in children. The research team calls for cautious use of acetaminophen during pregnancy under medical supervision.
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine have identified a specific genetic region called HAR123 that promotes human-specific cognitive flexibility, unlearning and replacing knowledge. The study offers a molecular explanation for radical changes in the human brain over evolution.