Research on autism and neurodevelopment. Covers screening and diagnosis gaps, rising diagnoses among girls, prenatal risks, and genomics.
Researchers developed two approaches to improve behavioral therapy for children with autism. Functional MRI can predict which children will benefit from Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) with high accuracy, while oxytocin administration may enhance social motivation and reward brain circuits in children with autism. These findings have ...
Researchers developed a smartphone app that tracks eye movement to detect signs of autism spectrum disorder, with an accuracy rating of 93.96% and potential for earlier detection and better treatment outcomes.
A new study found that intensive multidisciplinary treatment can eliminate dependence on tube feeding in 71% of children with pediatric feeding disorder at discharge. Treatment also leads to increased oral intake and reduced caregiver stress.
Researchers at Indiana University and UC San Diego create a collaborative network to study movement signatures in children with learning difficulties. They will analyze bodily movements, face expressions, and eye-tracking data to reveal biologically measurable signs of learning disorders like ADHD, autism, and dystonia.
Researchers found a genetic alteration in the DIXDC1 gene that affects brain cell growth and communication in individuals with autism spectrum disorders. This discovery holds promise for identifying new medications targeting core symptoms of autism.
Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed a genetic link between mitochondrial DNA and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study found that autistic children had more than twice as many harmful mtDNA mutations compared to their non-autistic siblings. This finding may lead to better diagnosis and treatment of children with ...
A study of 903 children with autism spectrum disorder found that they have more harmful mitochondrial DNA mutations than their unaffected siblings. These mutations can be inherited from the mother or result from spontaneous mutation during development, increasing the risk of neurological and developmental problems.
Researchers warn that current ADHD screening tools may not work for children with autism spectrum disorders, leading to misdiagnosis and potentially ineffective treatments. The study recommends refining the tool and supplementing it with clinical interviews to better identify the correct disorder.
A study published in The Lancet found that parent-led early intervention for autism can significantly reduce symptom severity, especially social communication and repetitive behaviors. The six-year follow-up analysis showed a reduction of 17% in severe symptoms among children who received the intervention.
Researchers found that mutations in the NF1 gene contribute to autistic behaviors in nearly half of patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. The study provides insights into the genetic roots of autism and may lead to better treatments for children with NF1 and autism.
Scientists at Boston Children's Hospital discovered a defect in mitochondrial recycling in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder associated with autism. The study found that two existing classes of drugs, carbamazepine and mTOR inhibitors, can enhance autophagy and replenish healthy mitochondria.
A placebo-controlled trial found that high-dose folinic acid significantly improved verbal communication skills in children with autism. The treatment also showed promise for predicting response to treatment through specific biomarkers.
Research at King's College London reveals that individuals with autism are more likely to make rational decisions by following their heads rather than their hearts. This is due to impaired emotional awareness and reduced susceptibility to the Framing Effect.
A new study found that using Shakespeare's rhythmic language paired with physical gestures improved social interaction and language skills in children with autism. The 'Hunter Heartbeat Method' intervention showed significant improvement in facial expression recognition and social relationships.
A recent case report highlights the dangers of alternative therapies in children, leading to severe symptoms such as vomiting, constipation, and weight loss. In another case, a woman developed tick-borne illness, including seizures and multiorgan failure, after removing a tick from her skin.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have discovered a unique genetic basis for autism that may enable earlier diagnosis. The study found distinct genomic characteristics and evolutionary forces shaping autism genes, which could help identify new candidate genes.
A recent study found that parents who reproduce later in life are more likely to have children with autism disorders, while older mothers are associated with reduced risks. In contrast, advanced paternal ages were linked to increased risks of most autistic disorders in offspring.
A Duke University study found that three genetic causes of microcephaly in mice share a common mechanism, involving the regulation of p53 protein. The research may improve understanding of microcephaly, autism, and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Researchers have identified a drug target that shows promise in improving social interaction in individuals with some forms of autism spectrum disorder. The breakthrough comes from a study using a new mouse model that reveals the molecular underpinnings of ASD-related behavior and brain physiology.
A study by researchers at UW Medicine and Seattle Children's Research Institute found a link between exposure to diagnostic ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy and increased autism symptom severity. The study suggests that current FDA guidelines may need to be revised to account for this potential risk.
A new reading comprehension intervention is being developed to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), a disorder affecting one in 68 children in the US. The program aims to improve academic success and reduce learning issues by using interest-based text, and will be tested over three years.
Researchers have developed an iPad game that can help identify autism in children by tracking their hand movements, providing a potential breakthrough for early diagnosis. The study found that movement patterns are a key differentiator in gameplay data, highlighting the importance of motor skills in autism.
Scientists at HKUST discover how PSD proteins form in living cells via phase-transition, revealing a possible answer to the long-standing question of PSD formation. The study also found that defects in these proteins can alter synaptic signaling activity and contribute to brain disorders.
A clinical trial found metformin to be effective in reducing weight gain associated with atypical antipsychotics in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggests that metformin may offer a potential treatment option to mitigate the risks of diabetes linked to weight gain.
Researchers found that metformin effectively reduced body mass index scores in overweight children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder who take antipsychotic medications. The double-blind clinical trial also showed metformin was well-tolerated and did not cause behavioral changes.
Research suggests that prenatal exposure to certain organochlorine chemicals may increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder in children. The study found that children born after being exposed to high levels of these chemicals during pregnancy were 80% more likely to be diagnosed with autism.
Researchers investigate prenatal infections and their link to developmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. A five-year NIH grant supports studies on the effects of early-life immune responses and sex differences in brain vulnerability.
Researchers have created low-cost and sensitive assays to analyze Fragile X-related disorders, enabling preclinical and clinical research on this genetic mutation. The new tests can detect even small changes in DNA methylation and may be suitable for initial patient screening.
A recent study by Princeton University and Simons Foundation researchers has identified over 2,500 candidate genes that may contribute to autism spectrum disorder. The machine-learning program analyzed the human genome to predict which genes are at risk of causing the condition.
A new Kaiser Permanente study found that the risk of younger siblings developing an autism spectrum disorder is significantly higher if an older sibling has ASD. The study also found a gender difference in autism diagnosis rates among younger siblings, with boys being more likely to be affected.
A new Autism Speaks MSSNG study has expanded understanding of autism's complex causes, highlighting the role of non-coding DNA and environmental factors in gene changes. The research found a clear difference between de novo mutations from the mother and father, with clustered mutations from the mother linked to copy number variations.
The Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University is conducting a three-year study on the impact of tree canopy on symptoms of children with autism. The research aims to investigate the relationship between nature walks, memory, and stress responses in children with autism.
A team of Princeton researchers has developed a machine-learning approach that analyzes the entire human genome to predict which genes may cause autism spectrum disorder. By identifying 2,500 potential autism genes, this new method provides a significant breakthrough in understanding the genetic basis of autism.
A joint article by Dr Melissa Trimingham and Professor Nicola Shaughnessy presents pioneering research using drama with autistic children, demonstrating how 'intermediality' unlocks languages used by autistic children. The study aims to help families through teaching new play skills using drama and puppetry.
A new study from the University of Missouri found that Photovoice, a method using photographs, helps adolescents with autism express concerns and stress as they transition to adulthood. The research reveals themes of isolation, socialization challenges, and the comfort animals bring in combating loneliness.
Researchers found similar brain impairments in children with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). The study linked these impairments to symptoms that occur across different conditions.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a virtual reality driving environment specifically designed for teenagers with autism spectrum disorder. The system, called VADIA, gathers information on users' reactions and adjusts difficulty levels to provide personalized training.
Researchers identified an inner ear deficiency in children with Autism that affects speech recognition. The non-invasive test measures otoacoustic emissions to detect cochlear impairment, correlating it with ASD symptom severity.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found no association between induced labor and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. The study analyzed Swedish birth registry data, comparing siblings discordant for labor induction, and found no increased risk of ASDs among offspring born via induced labor.
A large study found no association between induced labor and increased risk of autism spectrum disorders in children. The research suggests that concern about autism risk should not factor into clinical decisions about inducing labor.
Researchers suggest that widespread brain alterations in infants at risk for autism may affect multiple systems, rather than just social brain networks. Early behavioral and imaging studies provide evidence for general abnormalities during the first year of life.
A new study finds that variations in the 16p11.2 genomic region are distinctively linked to specific cognitive domains in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Differences emerged between deletion and duplication carriers, suggesting a complex association between genetic alterations and brain function.
A Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study found that Zyprexa (olanzapine) is linked to the highest risk of weight gain, while Geodon (ziprasidone) and Seroquel (quetiapine) were not associated with an increase in body mass index. The study suggests balancing treatment risks and benefits for children and teens with ASD.
Researchers created a high-resolution atlas of rhesus monkey brain development, revealing how gene expression changes across time. The study highlights the importance of understanding primate brain development to identify neurodevelopmental processes involved in disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
Researchers at UVA discover that the immune system directly affects social behavior, with blocking a specific molecule causing abnormal hyperactivity in mice. Restoring the molecule restored normal brain connectivity and behavior.
Researchers created a mini-brain model to study idiopathic autism, revealing early neuronal overgrowth and dysfunctional cortical networks. The model shows a defective Wnt pathway and misregulated neurotransmitters, leading to reduced excitatory synapses and functional defects.
Researchers used machine learning to analyze caregiver responses and identified five ADI-R questions that maintained 95% of the instrument's performance. This could reduce administrative time and customize questions for individualized intervention. The study suggests a more data-informed approach to autism diagnosis and support.
The MI-LEND program aims to improve the health of infants, children and adolescents with disabilities by training individuals from diverse disciplines. The program will address the complex needs of those with autism and other disabilities by increasing graduate students prepared to address their needs.
State insurance mandates requiring coverage for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were associated with increased diagnoses. The treated prevalence of ASD was higher in states with mandates compared to those without, suggesting that the mandates have had a positive effect on identifying children with ASD.
New research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that state insurance mandates have led to a significant increase in children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, analyzed data from three major health insurers and found that mandates resulted in a 12.7% i...
The grant will enable further development of SPEAKmore! and related mobile technologies for advanced speech and language training. The company aims to help individuals produce more complex sentences and generalize newly learned language concepts, improving their communication skills.
A new study co-led by Salk Institute scientists found that some people with autism spectrum disorder have brains that grow faster than usual, often before diagnosis. The researchers used stem cell reprogramming technologies to model the earliest stages of complex disorders and evaluate potential therapeutic drugs.
A joint study between CARD and Chapman University analyzed over 800 children with ASD, finding that Board Certified Behavioral Analyst experience and hours of therapy are crucial for successful treatment. The research provides insights into optimizing treatment plans and improving outcomes.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identified a novel astroglia-mediated pathogenic mechanism contributing to fragile X syndrome symptoms. The study found that disrupting an astrocyte-specific glutamate transporter contributed to FXS-like symptoms, which were reversed by restoring FMRP and glutamate signaling.
A consensus statement from Project TENDR highlights a link between toxic chemical exposures and neurodevelopmental disorders. The alliance calls for immediate action to reduce exposure levels to chemicals like organophosphate pesticides, PBDEs, and lead.
A new study finds that prenatal exposure to paracetamol may increase attention-related symptoms, hyperactivity, and autism spectrum symptoms in children. Researchers found a 30% higher risk of attention function detriment and two clinical autism symptoms in boys exposed to paracetamol during pregnancy.
A consensus statement from Project TENDR highlights the link between environmental toxins and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and learning disabilities. The alliance calls for immediate reduction of toxic chemical exposures through policy changes and industry action.
A study by CHOP researchers found gaps in knowledge and communication about ASD treatment choices, leading to difficulties in sharing treatment decisions. The authors suggest using tools like decision aids and practice guidelines to foster effective communication between families and pediatricians.
A study by University of Missouri researchers identified three types of apparel-related barriers: mechanical, cultural, and sensory sensitivity barriers. These barriers prevent people with disabilities from engaging in their communities, including job interviews, court appearances, and team sports.
Researchers found that diabetic women were three times more likely to have anti-fetal brain autoantibodies, which may be linked to increased inflammation and neurodevelopmental conditions in children. The study suggests that metabolic conditions during pregnancy may alter maternal immune tolerance to the fetus.