Articles tagged with Autism
A team of researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital has identified key biological processes involved in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), including the overlap of two major signaling pathways. The study highlights the importance of understanding how these pathways interact to develop more effective treatments.
The Autism Science Foundation has awarded $2.3 million in grants to support innovative autism research and training programs. The funding will go towards pre- and post-doctoral fellowships, undergraduate summer research grants, and other initiatives aimed at improving our understanding of autism and developing effective treatments.
A new study using eye-tracker technology shows that children with autism spectrum disorder fixate longer on a speaker's mouth rather than the eyes when the conversation turns emotional. The findings could affect speech therapy treatment, as children with ASD may miss social cues in facial expressions.
A study found that autism diagnoses are still being made at an average age of 4.5 years, with some children not diagnosed until 30 months old. Early intervention can improve social and communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers found chemicals in commonly used fungicides alter gene expression in mouse brain cells similar to those in people with autism and Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests these chemicals may impact brain function, including synaptic transmission and inflammation.
A study by researchers at UC Davis MIND Institute found that a cancer gene is nearly twice as likely to be defective in children with autism spectrum disorder and their fathers. The correlation is particularly high among children with more severe ASD, suggesting a link between DNA repair capacity and genomic instability.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that remote eye gaze tracking can differentiate children with autism spectrum disorder from those without ASD. The researchers developed an Autism Risk Index based on eye gaze patterns, which correctly identified 4 out of 5 cases of ASD.
A Kyoto University study found that premature infants, aged 6 and 12 months, showed reduced interest in social stimuli compared to full-term infants. This could be an early indicator of atypical social development, including autism. The research used eye-tracking technology to assess gaze patterns and social interaction skills.
Researchers at the University of Miami studied dynamic functional network connectivity in the insular cortex, revealing unique and overlapping profiles of its subdivisions. The findings suggest that changes in connection patterns between brain areas may contribute to the region's flexibility in multiple cognitive processes.
A new study found that autistic and non-autistic adults equally condemn actions requiring harm for the greater good. Researchers identified two facets of autistic personality: increased self-oriented distress and reduced empathy, which counterbalance each other.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports dispels the myth that autistic individuals are cold and unempathetic. In fact, research suggests that people with autism exhibit an empathic response similar to those without autism when faced with moral dilemmas. The study found that individuals with high-functioning autism were more like...
A recent study found that only 17.9% of published autism intervention studies reported racial and ethnic diversity of participants, with white children making up a majority. This lack of diversity presents a problem as response to interventions is not guaranteed, and it's unclear why some children respond positively while others don't.
Researchers found a wide variety of genetic changes contributing to autism, including simple deletions and complex 'structural variants'. These mutations often disrupt genes involved in brain development, highlighting potential new targets for treatment.
New research suggests genetic risk underlying autism spectrum disorders affects a range of behavioral and developmental traits across the population. Those diagnosed with ASD represent a severe presentation of these traits, which also occur in unaffected individuals.
Researchers develop mouse model of Jacobsen syndrome, a rare inherited disease that affects social behavior and brain function. The study finds that the anti-anxiety drug clonazepam reduces autistic features in mice, suggesting potential for new therapies.
A survey of hundreds of UK parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) highlights severe challenges in accessing adequate services. Only one per cent of parents were able to access dietary services that resolved their child's problems, despite many reporting health and behavioural progress following dietary changes.
A new study reveals that immune cells called microglia play a crucial role in rewiring brain connections, a process essential for neuroplasticity and learning. By 'pruning' unwanted connections, microglia enable the formation of new pathways between neurons.
A recent study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that children with autism do not have a unique pattern of abnormal results on endoscopy or other tests for gastrointestinal disorders. The researchers analyzed the results of diagnostic tests in 61 children with autism being evaluated for GI sympt...
Early screening is crucial for detecting autism in toddlers, as it can diagnose symptoms around the second birthday, compared to a fourth birthday without screening. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends universal screening, which has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and reduce disparities in diagnosis.
Researchers developed a new mathematical model to estimate mutation rates based on nearby DNA sequences, revealing genetic risk factors for complex human diseases. The model predicts up to 93% of variability in mutation occurrence and identifies new sequences prone to mutation beyond CpG sites.
A study published in eLife identified a novel mechanism that causes abnormal brain development in autism, a group of highly inheritable behavioral disorders. The research reveals how a specific microRNA regulates gene expression to impair brain development, leading to the characteristic symptoms of autism.
The USPSTF found adequate evidence that screening tests can detect ASD among children aged 18-30 months but inadequate direct evidence on the benefits of screening for toddlers and preschool-age children. Treatment studies were generally small and lacked randomized trials, making it difficult to determine efficacy.
A Tel Aviv University study reveals that mothers' positive attitudes towards involving their children in everyday activities and feeling competent as parents significantly contribute to their children's successful participation. The research suggests that mothers should prioritize their own self-care and interests to promote their chil...
A recent study from the University of Missouri found a strong association between difficulty sleeping and behavioral problems in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The research, which surveyed parents of 81 children with ASD, revealed that sleep difficulties are highly related to daytime behavioral issues such as aggression,...
Researchers at Scripps Florida identified a memory suppressor microRNA called miR-980, which regulates neuronal excitability and inhibiting it improves memory. The study found links between miR-980 and autism spectrum disorder, suggesting that the microRNA may contribute to the development of the condition.
A Yale University study found that infant girls at risk for autism exhibit better social attention and observational skills than boys, which may help prevent or mitigate the severity of autism symptoms in high-risk females.
A new study by Cohen Children's Medical Center suggests that over a quarter million school-age children with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disorders wander away from adult supervision annually. Public places are the most common location for wandering, which poses significant risks to safety and well-being.
Researchers discovered a critical period during embryonic brain development that establishes normal social behavior and linked it with abnormalities in specific adult brain structures. Treating mice during fetal development reversed the deficits that lead to social and repetitive behavior disorders.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found a strong link between autism and maternal obesity-diabetes, with pregnant mothers 1.5 times more likely to have a child with ASD. The study used electronic medical records and analyzed birth data from over 35,000 mothers.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that a blood pressure medication, propranolol, can improve some social functions in individuals with autism. A study involving 20 participants showed that those taking propranolol scored higher on conversational skills than those receiving a placebo.
Research at King's College London identified altered brain connections in men with ASD, particularly in the frontal lobe and arcuate bundle. These differences were associated with delays in language development and social interaction skills, but may be reversible.
Researchers have found that carnitine deficiency can interfere with neural stem cell development, increasing autism risk. Supplementing carnitine may help offset this effect, particularly in cases involving genetic mutations associated with TMLHE gene variants.
Researchers found that immune cells activated during severe maternal inflammation produce IL-17, which interferes with brain development. Blocking this signal restored normal behavior and brain structure in mice. The study suggests a possible mechanism for how maternal infection may lead to autism-like behavior.
Researchers found that immune responses similar to viral infections in pregnant mice altered brain structure and caused behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorder. Blocking the action of a specific immune cell population restored normal behavior and brain structure in offspring.
A study identified a subset of immune signaling proteins associated with autism development in mice. Blocking these proteins during pregnancy eliminated autism-like behavior in offspring, hinting at a potential prevention method.
A new study published in Science found that viral infection during pregnancy can cause autism-like behaviors in mice offspring, characterized by deficits in social approach behavior and repetitive behaviors. Blocking the immune response with antibodies restored normal brain structure and function.
Researchers at Drexel University found that mothers who took B2AR agonist drugs during pregnancy were 30% more likely to have children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The study suggests that these medications may influence a newborn's neurodevelopment, highlighting the need for further research on potential risks.
A study has identified a gene, RANBP1, that appears to play a significant role in raising the risk of severe subtypes of autism and other genetic diseases. The findings suggest that disruptions in brain signaling networks may be good targets for future research and potentially lead to new treatment opportunities.
A new study found that 23% of youths with gender dysphoria possibly or likely had Asperger syndrome. The researchers recommend routine assessment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in youth presenting to a gender dysphoria clinic for optimal clinical care.
A trio of molecules, hevin, neurexins, and neuroligins, orchestrate neuron connections in the developing brain that are responsible for processing sensory information. The study may provide insight into brain disorders including autism, depression, and addiction.
Researchers at University of Texas at Austin discovered a brain mechanism that allows us to play back memories in fast forward, compressing information needed for memory retrieval, imagination, or planning. This finding has implications for research into schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, and Alzheimer's disease.
UCLA scientists have discovered a crucial role for the Rbfox1 gene in regulating genes that contribute to autism risk. The study highlights an untapped region in brain cells as a goldmine of drug targets for new treatments.
Researchers highlight the need for early planning and support for teens with autism and their caregivers to transition into adulthood successfully. Caregivers are encouraged to start discussing future plans with their children as early as age 12 or 13.
A large study published in Translational Psychiatry found no evidence that prenatal antidepressant exposure increases the risk of autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The research team analyzed medical records data from over 1,200 children with an autism-related diagnosis and nearly 3,800 control children. Matern...
Researchers have identified a novel drug target for treating Rett Syndrome and other forms of autism-spectrum disorders. By increasing KCC2 function in diseased nerve cells, the treatment may alleviate symptoms and improve brain development.
A recent study found a significant network of genes influencing cognitive abilities in both healthy individuals and those with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia. The discovery provides an alternate starting point for developing therapies targeting these disorders.
A new study by researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that extremely premature babies who later develop autism show distinct brain differences as early as the neonatal period. The study suggests that environmental factors can play a key role in the development of autism.
Researchers have discovered a direct link between autism symptoms and reduced action of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. The study suggests that increasing brain concentrations of GABA may have potential as an autism treatment.
Researchers found that individuals with autism have lower levels of GABA, a key inhibitory neurotransmitter, which suggests a breakdown in the signaling pathway. This breakthrough could lead to early intervention efforts through visual screening tests for younger children.
A new parent-led therapy, PASS, has been successfully tested in India and Pakistan, showing improved interaction between autistic children and their parents. The study, funded by Autism Speaks, adapted a UK therapy method to address language and cultural differences in lower-income countries.
Researchers at New York University found that individuals with autism have unstable blood vessels, disrupting brain function and circulation. The study identified a correlation between angiogenesis and neurogenesis, potentially leading to novel therapeutic interventions.
A brain imaging study reveals disruptions in the brain's ToM circuitry in children with autism, leading to difficulties in understanding mental states and making social connections. This finding provides valuable insight into the neural mechanisms underlying ASD symptoms.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics has found that taking antidepressants during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of autism in children. The study analyzed data from over 145,000 pregnancies and found an 87% increased risk of autism when antidepressants were used during the second or third trimester.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that antidepressants used during the final two trimesters of pregnancy were associated with an increased risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. The study, which analyzed data on over 145,000 pregnancies and infants, found a significant increase in ASD diagnoses among children exp...
Research identifies abnormal cell cycle gene activity as a common underlying factor for brain overgrowth and undergrowth in autistic toddlers. The study found that disruptions in cell cycle networks, which control prenatal neuron production, contribute to abnormal early brain growth.
Researchers found female infants have larger gray matter volumes around the temporal-parietal junction, which integrates social information processing. By age two, myelination of long fiber tracks is more developed in males than females, a potential clue to autism risk disparities.
A recent study has identified the Shank3 gene as a key contributor to both autism and schizophrenia. The researchers found that two different mutations of the gene produce distinct molecular and behavioral effects in mice, shedding light on how a single gene can play a role in multiple diseases.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet found a significant link between maternal polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. The study, which analyzed data from over 24,000 ASD cases and 200,000 controls, suggests that exposure to sex hormones early in life may play a role in the development of ASD.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation awarded $1.5 million Distinguished Investigator Grants to 15 scientists conducting innovative projects in neurobiological and behavioral research. The grants aim to understand and treat psychiatric disorders affecting one in four people.
Researchers develop compound SR1078, which increases expression of genes linked to autism, reducing autistic behavior in mice. Studies with human brain cells also show increased gene expression, offering new hope for treating the underlying disorder.