Articles tagged with Autism
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.
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.
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.
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.
A new study reveals that autistic college students face dramatically higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to their non-autistic peers. The research highlights the need for more mental health support for this underrepresented population.
Researchers found that maternal obesity prior to pregnancy can program long-term neurodevelopmental trajectories in children through epigenetic alterations. This led to autistic-like behaviors in male mice, correlating with altered gene regulation in the cortex and hippocampus.
A new study found a link between parents' workplace chemical exposure and their child's autism severity, with certain chemicals associated with cognitive deficits and developmental delays. The research emphasizes the need for workplace safety measures to protect not only workers but also their future children.
A large-scale study has identified 48 genes linked to stuttering, shedding light on the neurological pathways of risk. The findings suggest a shared genetic basis with autism, depression, and musicality, providing a foundation for future research.
Researchers discovered a two-step mechanism where inhibitory neurons release nitric oxide to rapidly dilate blood vessels, followed by slower, localized vasodilation via astrocyte activation. This breakthrough sheds light on how neural signals are translated into blood volume changes in brain imaging.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that 44% of autistic teens can mask their diagnosis in school settings, showing faster brain responses to faces and reduced emotional reactivity. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to better support for these teens.
Researchers at UC Davis MIND Institute recommend testing for specific groups, citing inadequate recognition by healthcare providers. The group of genetic conditions affects learning, development, and behavior, with millions of people unaware they carry the premutation.
Researchers from Drexel University's A.J. Drexel Autism Institute examined hospitalizations for mental health conditions in autistic adults and found that nearly 1.5 times more autistic adults were readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of initial discharge compared to non-autistic adults.
Researchers found that early sensory processing, including touch and hearing, diverge in people with autism compared to those without the condition. The study suggests that understanding these early differences may lead to breakthroughs in treating autism.
The article highlights the need for healthcare providers to understand autism and its diversity, as well as actively ask about patients' lived experiences. Additionally, suggestions are provided on adapting healthcare delivery and environments, tailoring communications, and addressing barriers faced by autistic individuals with margina...
A study by autistic researchers reveals the challenges of navigating nonverbal cues, including body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Autistic adults often struggle to process these signals in real-time, leading to misunderstandings and social anxiety.
Researchers found that adults with autism perceive visual body information similarly to neurotypical adults, challenging long-standing assumptions about social difficulties in ASD. The study used fMRI to compare brain activity patterns in adults with autism and typically developing adults while viewing images of body parts.
Researchers identified four distinct groups of autism linked to specific genetic variants and biological processes. The study's person-centered approach analyzing phenotypic and genotypic data from SPARK enabled more precise diagnoses and personalized support.
A new online support package aims to empower parents of young autistic children to look after their dental health. The toolkit provides practical, tailored solutions focusing on toothbrushing, dentist visits, and eating habits, featuring videos and downloadable resources.
Researchers identified four clinically and biologically distinct subtypes of autism, each with distinct developmental, medical, behavioral, and psychiatric traits. The study linked subtypes to genetic profiles and developmental trajectories, offering new insights into the biology underlying autism.
Researchers found that inhibitory neurons born later in brain development mature faster than those produced earlier, ensuring a balanced neural network. This regulation is controlled by genetic mechanisms and may contribute to developmental disorders.
Researchers developed an AI-powered diagnostic approach using quantitative biomarkers and biometrics to rapidly assess neurodivergent disorders. The method has the potential to diagnose autism or ADHD in as little as 15 minutes, providing healthcare providers with additional tools to tailor treatments.
Biomolecular condensates play a critical role in organizing and regulating proteins within the postsynaptic density of neurons. Prof. Strømgaard's research aims to develop condensate-modifying compounds that restore normal function in SYNGAP1-related disorders, offering new avenues for therapeutic interventions.
A clinical trial found that vitamin D3 nanoemulsion significantly improved core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in children, including language development and adaptive behavior. The nanoemulsion form was shown to be more effective than conventional oral supplementation.
A new research paper introduces DoliClock, a biological aging clock based on lipid profiles in the human brain, showing accelerated brain aging in individuals with autism, schizophrenia, and Down syndrome. The study found that dolichol levels serve as reliable biomarkers of aging.
A new nutritional epigenetics study protocol aims to reduce lead and mercury exposures in pregnant women to prevent childhood autism and ADHD. The protocol provides a valid method for measuring changes in ultra-processed food intake and diet, which may impact child neurodevelopment.
PTEN-deficient mouse models exhibit ASD-like characteristics due to circuit imbalance and altered behavior. The study reveals specific circuit changes in the amygdala resulting from PTEN loss in inhibitory neurons, providing new insights into the underlying circuit alterations that contribute to heightened fear and anxiety.
Scientists have discovered a link between autism spectrum disorders and congenital heart disease, finding that tiny hair-like structures called cilia underlie the shared biology of both conditions. This study offers hope for early diagnosis and intervention, with potential benefits for children with autism.
Mark Ramos developed software to help therapists measure children's skill development in autism therapy, providing a more accurate estimate of mastery. The tool, called MIEBL, employs Bayesian estimates to set performance criteria based on predicted success and observed data.
A controlled clinical trial found that two-thirds of participants showed behavioral improvements with CBD treatment, highlighting its potential benefits. However, the study also revealed a significant placebo effect, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand CBD's therapeutic potential.
The Autism Inpatient Collection (AIC) has released a comprehensive dataset of over 1,500 children with autism, ages 4-20, providing valuable insights into their phenotypic and genetic profiles. The data includes measures of behavior, communication, emotion regulation, and more.
Despite clinical recommendations, genetic testing is underutilized among Medicaid-enrolled children with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability. The study found stark racial disparities, with Black children less likely to receive genetic testing than their white peers.
Researchers found that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can alleviate some autistic behaviors and improve mental flexibility by reducing neural rigidity. The study's results provide a biological explanation for the coexistence of diverse behavioral traits in ASD.
Researchers found that playing Dixit helped evoke emotions in autistic participants, covering three main themes: anxiety, social relationships, and sensory experiences. The study suggests the game could be an effective tool for bridging gaps between autistic and neurotypical people.
Researchers from Japan conducted a cross-cultural analysis to compare mentalizing difficulties in British and Japanese autistic and non-autistic adults. They found that Japanese autistic participants outperformed both groups of British participants, suggesting cultural differences in interpreting social cues.
A large-scale study from Karolinska Institutet reports that individuals with an autism diagnosis are four times more likely to develop early-onset Parkinson's disease. The researchers believe that shared underlying biological mechanisms may be at play, particularly involving the neurotransmitter dopamine.
A new study from UC San Diego School of Medicine reports no clinical differences in core autism traits between female and male autistic children aged 12-48 months. The researchers found sex differences in typically developing females, but not in autistic children.
A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found no increase in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD in children whose mothers took triptan medications before or during pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from over 26,000 pregnancies and followed the children for an average of eight years.
Researchers have identified a four-amino-acid mini-exon in the PTPδ gene that plays a critical role in brain development and behavior. The study found that deleting this mini-exon led to anxiety-like behavior and reduced movement in mice, highlighting its essential role in maintaining synaptic balance.
A recent epigenetic study identified RABGGTB as a promising biomarker for autism spectrum disorder, revealing extensive DNA methylation abnormalities in key brain regions. The findings suggest that studying this gene could unlock new doors to understanding ASD and lead to future diagnostic breakthroughs.
Researchers at KAIST have developed an AI-powered app called AACessTalk that enables meaningful communication between children with autism and their parents. The app uses personalized vocabulary cards and customized prompts to foster mutual engagement in dialogue.