Articles tagged with Autism
A new method called Brain-Wide Association Analysis (BWAS) has isolated the functional differences between autistic and non-autistic brains, identifying regions that may contribute to autism symptoms. The study used a large dataset of MRI scans to compare brain connectivity in individuals with autism and those without.
A large study found twice as many diagnosed autisms among ART births compared to non-ART births, but most of the association was explained by maternal age and education. After accounting for these factors, an elevated risk was only seen in mothers aged 20-34, with no significant increase in singletons.
A recent study suggests a link between genes linked with autism and higher intelligence in individuals who do not have the condition. Researchers found that carrying genetic traits associated with autism is, on average, linked to slightly better cognitive test scores, even in those without autism.
Researchers have discovered a multifunctional protein called BAI1, which is involved in limiting the growth of brain tumors but also critical for spatial learning and memory. Mice lacking BAI1 exhibit changes in neural responses and structure, leading to impaired spatial memory acquisition.
A new blood-based test has been developed to diagnose autism in young males as early as one to two years old, outperforming existing behavioral and genetic screens. The test uses genomic biomarkers that differentiate ASD toddlers from typically developing children with high accuracy.
Researchers discovered differences in brain regions associated with trust, particularly the ventral medial prefrontal cortex and amygdala. These findings have implications for future treatments of psychological conditions like autism.
Researchers at Yerkes National Primate Research Center have shown that inducing oxytocin release can activate the social brain and create bonds. A new drug candidate has been identified to stimulate oxytocin cells, leading to enhanced attention to and learning from social information in people with social disorders.
A UK twin study found that genetics account for up to 95% of the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder, with moderate environmental influences also playing a role. The study's results provide new insights into the complex causes of autism and may help inform future treatments.
A clinical trial funded by Autism Speaks' DELSIA will test a cognitive video game designed to improve executive function skills in children and adolescents with autism. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of the game, Project: EVO, in improving brain function and motor skills.
Researchers have identified a set of neurons in the frontal brain region that predict an opponent's cooperation in strategic decision-making tasks. This discovery sheds light on the neuronal basis of cooperative interactions and may lead to new treatments for autism and antisocial personality disorder.
Despite being discredited, interventions like Facilitated Communication remain widely used in the autism community due to emotional appeal and a desire for quick fixes. Experts emphasize the need for better education on effective treatments and caution against false hope.
A study published in Genes, Brain and Behavior found that animal models with autism risk gene mutations exhibit decreased aggressive behavior towards strangers, instead engaging in repetitive patterns. The research suggests a potential counter-narrative to the widespread perception of increased aggression in individuals with autism.
A growth hormone called IGF-1 has been shown to improve social impairment and restrictive behaviors in children with Phelan-McDermid syndrome, a disorder associated with autism. The treatment showed significant improvement in social withdrawal and repetitive behaviors compared to placebo.
A study of children with DNA abnormalities on chromosome 16 found a significant delay in processing sound and language, linking the deletion to key biological pathways. The research may lead to future medical treatments for specific subtypes of autism and other neuro disorders.
Researchers have found that mutations in the PTEN gene lead to reduced activity and stability of a critical protein, promoting genetic instability and disease. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments for patients with both autism and cancer.
Scientists at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered that autism mutations are connected to a pathway regulating brain development. The study found that specific genes were expressed in different developmental periods, influencing brain growth and behavior.
A study using a tadpole model reveals parallels between fetal chemical exposure and autism spectrum disorder, highlighting altered neural anatomy and behavior. The research suggests that understanding this connection could lead to discovering mechanisms to prevent neurodevelopmental disorders.
Research proposes that a brain system called declarative memory compensates for autism, OCD, and dyslexia by providing strategies to overcome learning difficulties. This compensation allows individuals to learn scripts for social situations and control tics and compulsions.
Research from King's College London found that spontaneous release of neurotransmitter glutamate causes neurons to branch and connect with each other, enabling the formation of synapses. This process plays a crucial role in regulating electrical signals through the brain.
Researchers from Marcus Autism Center found intensive behavioral intervention to be effective in eliminating pica in children with autism spectrum disorder. The treatment involved blocking inappropriate eating, redirecting behavior, and rewarding disposal of non-edible objects, resulting in a 96% reduction in pica in most cases.
A research collaboration found that induced or augmented labor does not increase the risk of children developing autism spectrum disorder. The study, which analyzed data from over 167,000 births, suggests that labor induction or augmentation is safe for mothers and babies.
A Tel Aviv University study found that a mutated gene regulating over 400 proteins affects male and female brains differently, leading to sex-specific learning and memory differences. The research suggests analyzing men and women separately in clinical trials to find cures for diseases due to potential gender differences.
Researchers found that a parent-coaching intervention called Adapted Responsive Teaching (ART) can significantly improve the outcomes of one-year-old children at risk for autism. The study, published in Autism Research and Treatment, compared ART to early intervention and monitoring, showing promising results.
A recent study published in the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine's annual meeting found that induced or augmented labor is not associated with an increased risk of Autism spectrum disorder. The research analyzed data from over 166,000 children and found no link between labor induction/augmentation and ASD diagnosis.
A recent study published in JAACAP found that abandoned children placed in institutions have an increased risk for behaviors similar to those seen in children with autism. However, when moved into child-centered foster family care at a young age, their social behaviors improved significantly.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a technique to visualize AMPA receptors in live mice, revealing that tickling increases receptor levels and strengthens synapses. This discovery has broad applications for studying learning and neurological disorders like autism, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia.
Researchers mapped 184 genetic duplications to aid in the interpretation of copy number variations (CNVs) found in individuals referred for genetic testing. The study found that most CNVs were inherited from a parent and often disrupted nearby genes, making it difficult to pinpoint particular genes responsible for medical conditions.
A new study has discovered genetic variations in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that disrupt dopamine signaling, leading to behavioral changes. The findings provide a potential target for developing more effective treatments for ASD.
A study of 421 preschool children with autism spectrum disorder reveals two distinct trajectory groups for autistic symptom severity and three for adaptive functioning. Researchers found that sex, age at diagnosis, and language scores were associated with these trajectories.
Researchers used fMRI to show that autistic individuals have significantly different brain activity related to emotion regulation compared to non-autistic individuals. The study suggests that improving prefrontal cortex activity could help autistic people regulate their emotions and reduce severe symptoms.
A recent brain study has confirmed significant differences in play behavior, brain activation patterns, and stress levels between children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing children. The research suggests that some children with autism may experience social engagement as stressful or aversive.
A recent study of 340 whole genomes from 85 families with two children affected by autism found that most siblings share different autism-linked genes. The research, led by Stephen Scherer, provides new insights into the complex genetic underpinnings of autism and suggests that each child with autism is unique.
A new project at the University of Washington is working to ensure that children with autism are identified and helped early enough to prevent problems later on. The initiative uses a Web-based screening system and simple play-based interventions to identify and treat toddlers at risk for autism.
A new study found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder tend to display uniquely individualistic brain organization patterns. The researchers suggest that these idiosyncrasies may be a result of disrupted interactions with the environment.
New research published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggests that video-based therapy can modify the emergence of autism-related behaviors and symptoms in infants at risk of autism. The therapy showed improvements in infant engagement, attention, and social behavior, with a moderate effect on reducing some children's risk of autism.
New research reveals that individuals with autism display 'idiosyncratic' brain synchronization patterns, which are distinct from those of typically developing individuals. This finding has significant implications for early diagnosis and future treatments of the disorder.
Researchers used a century-old drug, suramin, to reverse environmental and genetic autism-like symptoms in mice. The approach blocked the cellular danger response signal, allowing cells to restore normal communication and reversing ASD symptoms.
Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute have developed a brain-imaging technique that can detect autism spectrum disorder in children. The test, which involves measuring perspective-tracking responses, has shown promising diagnostic potential and may revolutionize the way autism is diagnosed.
Advanced 3D facial imaging may aid in early detection of autism. Researchers identified three distinct subgroups of children with autism who had similar measurement patterns in their facial features.
A recent survey of parents found that families with higher incomes are more likely to resort to litigation when disagreeing with school officials about their children's education. The study also found links between the strength of parent-school partnerships and greater use of mediation or due process.
A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that pediatricians often fail to detect autism risk during brief checkups, with experts also missing referrals. The study emphasizes the importance of universal screening, formalized screening instruments, and parent involvement to improve early identification and intervention.
Research suggests that circumcised boys are more likely to develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD) before the age of 10. The study found a higher risk of infantile autism and hyperactivity disorder among circumcised boys in non-Muslim families.
A new study by Duke researchers has identified a protein called hevin that plays a critical role in forming brain connections, particularly in the cortex. The discovery sheds light on how disruptions in this process may contribute to conditions such as autism and depression.
Research by University of Missouri-Columbia reveals that children with autism living with pets display improved social skills, particularly in initiating interactions and responding to others. The presence of a pet serves as a catalyst for social interaction, facilitating greater assertiveness among these individuals.
A molecular network composed of 119 proteins has been identified as a crucial contributor to autism spectrum disorders. The network shows strong enrichment for known autism genes and is linked to disruptions in brain circuitry, particularly the corpus callosum.
A large-scale analysis of hundreds of patients and nearly 1000 genes found that diverse genetic mutations lead to different disease outcomes in autism spectrum disorder. The study revealed that more damaging mutations usually result in worse outcomes, while high-IQ cases are often triggered by milder mutations.
Researchers at the University of Toronto discovered that microexons, small segments of genes, influence protein interactions in the nervous system. The study found that misregulation of this process can have major effects on how proteins function, particularly in individuals with autism.
A new deep learning model has revealed unexpected genetic determinants of autism, colon cancer, and spinal muscular atrophy by analyzing mutations in 'gene splicing.' This approach has led to the identification of 39 new genes potentially linked to autism spectrum disorder, a 40% increase from previously known genes.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that exposure to fine particulate matter during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, may increase the risk of autism in children. The study analyzed data from over 116,000 female nurses and found a significant association between PM2.5 exposure and autism risk.
Researchers at the University of Toronto developed a machine learning method to rank genetic mutations based on their likelihood of causing disease. The technique successfully predicted 94% of known genetic culprits behind diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy and colorectal cancer, and identified novel genes in autism susceptibility.
Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center discovered that the gene AUTS2, linked to autism spectrum disorders, stimulates other genes in early brain development. The study suggests that AUTS2 may play a key role in controlling a transcriptional program during early brain development.
Using state-of-the-art sequencing technology, researchers identified thousands of differences in gene expression across six life stages and found that genes containing these regions were crucial to the maturation process of neurons during fetal development. The study's findings suggest a 'signature' found in cells from the earliest sta...
Researchers identified a possible therapy to treat NF1 by reversing anatomical defects in the cerebellum with an ERK pathway inhibitor. This approach may reverse some aspects of the disease despite embryonic gene loss.
Researchers found that microglia cells in autism brains are perpetually activated and their genes for inflammation responses are turned on. The study is the largest so far of gene expression in autism brains, analyzing data from 104 brain samples.
A large study found that mothers of children with autism were over twice as likely to have had preeclampsia pregnancies. Children with autism and developmental delay also showed greater cognitive impairment when their mothers experienced preeclampsia. The study suggests a potential link between preeclampsia and autism development.
The insula is essential for selecting salient stimuli, and dysfunction can lead to deficits in attention, social, and cognitive processes. Mapping the structure and function of the insular cortex may provide targeted treatments for developmental and degenerative disorders.
Case studies of high-functioning individuals with ASD and gender dysphoria reveal complexities in providing psychotherapy for these patients. Suggested techniques offer hope for helping them explore their gender identities and potentially benefiting from gender transition.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University used brain-reading techniques to identify altered 'thought-markers' of autism, detecting changes in the way certain concepts are represented in the brains of autistic individuals. This biological approach shows promise for complementing clinical assessments and enabling quicker diagnoses.
A study by Indiana University researchers has found that subtle variations in movement patterns among individuals with autism spectrum disorder are indicators of the disorder's severity. The study also identified a pattern of random minute speed fluctuations in some parents of children with autism, suggesting a genetic role in movement...
Researchers identify chemical pathway disrupting behaviour in Fragile X patients and find potential treatment using cancer drug cercosporamide. The drug blocks the pathway, improving sociability in mice with the condition.