Female mice sing for sex
Researchers found female mice singing back to male mice during courtship, with voices registering at 35-125 kilohertz. The discovery could lead to advances in understanding autism and social communication in the brain.
Autism
Research on autism and neurodevelopment. Covers screening and diagnosis gaps, rising diagnoses among girls, prenatal risks, and genomics.
Men and women with autism have 'extreme male' scores on the 'eyes test' of mindreading
A large study of individuals with autism found that both men and women with the condition performed similarly to typical males on an empathy test. This result supports the 'extreme male brain' theory, which predicts lower empathy scores in individuals with autism compared to females.
New model of cognitive flexibility gives insight into autism spectrum disorder
A University of Miami research team proposes a four-component model of cognitive flexibility, which helps understand autism spectrum disorder and other behavioral/neurological disorders. The study may inform the development of new interventions to improve cognitive flexibility skills in individuals with autism.
Girls and boys with autism differ in behavior, brain structure
Researchers found significant gender differences in the severity of repetitive and restricted behaviors in girls with autism compared to boys. The study also identified distinct brain structure differences between boys and girls with autism, particularly in motor regions.
Newer genetic testing methods may provide benefit for children with suspected autism
A study found that two newer genetic testing technologies can identify genetic mutations potentially linked to autism in children with certain physical anomalies. The findings suggest that medical evaluation of ASD children may help identify populations more likely to achieve a molecular diagnosis.
Sohl to expand autism care network
Dr. Kristin Sohl is expanding the ECHO Autism program to an additional 10 sites, aiming to improve healthcare for children with autism in underserved communities. The $15 million grant will enhance early identification of autism and treatment of co-occurring conditions in primary care.
New insights in pathological mechanism that causes dysfunctional synapses
Mutations in genes involved in synaptic communication can drive neuropsychiatric and neurological diseases like autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease. Disruption of a new sorting pathway severely hampers neuron-neuron communication.
Scientist: Most complete human brain model to date is a 'brain changer'
Researchers have developed a nearly complete human brain model, engineered from adult human skin cells, with an identifiable structure and containing 99% of the genes present in the human fetal brain. The lab-grown brain has the potential to accelerate studies of genetic and environmental causes of central nervous system disorders.
Research examines relationship between autism and creativity
New research found that individuals with high autistic traits generate fewer but more original and creative responses during divergent thinking tasks. The study suggests that these individuals may approach creativity problems in a unique way, utilizing less common strategies to produce unusual responses.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateAug 13, 2015
UNC scientists pinpoint how a single genetic mutation causes autism
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered that a single genetic mutation disables a molecular switch in the UBE3A gene, leading to hyperactivation and abnormal brain development. This finding has implications for diagnosing and treating autism, particularly for individuals with Dup15q syndrome.
Psychologists develop first adult self-assessment for repetitive behaviors in autism
Psychologists at Cardiff University developed a reliable adult self-assessment test to measure repetitive behaviors in autism. Adults with an autism diagnosis consistently scored higher on this measure than those without an autism diagnosis, highlighting its potential as a diagnostic tool.
Interactive Autism Network approved for $1.6 million to join PCORnet Research Network
The Interactive Autism Network (IAN) has been awarded $1.6 million by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) to join PCORnet, a national health research resource. IAN will collaborate with researchers, patient communities, and clinicians to accelerate autism research and improve patient outcomes.
Young adults with autism show improved social function following UCLA skills program
A study by researchers at UCLA found that a social skills program for high-functioning young adults with autism improved their ability to engage with peers. The gains persisted 16 weeks after the program ended and were accompanied by increased empathy and greater responsibility.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJul 30, 2015
Autism costs estimated to reach nearly $500 billion, potentially $1 trillion, by 2025
UC Davis researchers estimate that the total costs of caring for people with autism spectrum disorder will range from $162 to $367 billion in 2015 and potentially reach $1 trillion by 2025. The study recommends increased investment in research and early intervention programs to reduce these costs.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJul 28, 2015
A way to predict whether children with DiGeorge syndrome will develop autism or psychosis
A study by UCLA and University of Pittsburgh researchers has isolated specific genetic differences between people with DiGeorge syndrome who have autism and those who have psychosis. The findings suggest a potential way to determine which child is at risk for which disorder, allowing for early intervention and improvement.
Expert panel sets nutrition guidelines to manage GI symptoms in autism
The new guideline provides a comprehensive framework for clinicians to manage gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorders. It highlights the importance of nutrition management in addressing feeding and GI concerns, and recommends a standard manual of care for clinicians worldwide.
SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 23, 2015
Job services lacking for young people with autism
A new study reveals that young people with autism are struggling to find and keep jobs, with only 47% securing employment after receiving vocational services. Experts emphasize the importance of vocational counseling, guidance, and coordination between high schools and rehabilitation systems to support this growing population.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJul 22, 2015
Increasing prevalence of autism is due, in part, to changing diagnoses
A study analyzing special education data found that autism diagnoses increased, but so did reclassifications of intellectual disability cases. Researchers believe this shift may be attributed to the variability of autism and its overlap with other related disorders.
Low levels of hormone linked to social deficit in autism, Stanford study finds
A new study from Stanford University School of Medicine suggests that low levels of vasopressin, a hormone involved in social behavior, are associated with social deficits in children with autism. Researchers found that autistic children who had the lowest vasopressin levels in their blood also displayed greater social impairment.
The medical odyssey of an undiagnosed child
A recent breakthrough by Tel Aviv University and Antwerp University researchers has identified the mutation of a neuroprotective protein as the probable cause of ADNP-related autism syndrome. This discovery provides new insights into the condition and offers potential avenues for diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving the lives ...
SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Molecular Neuroscience·DateJul 21, 2015
NIH joins public-private partnership to fund research on autism biomarkers
The NIH is supporting a multi-year project to develop and improve clinical research tools for studying social impairment in children with autism. The project aims to create reliable tools for assessing potential treatments, which will aid in precision medicine approaches.
Yale leads NIH-funded autism biomarkers study of pre-school and school-aged children
Researchers are collecting data from children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to identify non-invasive biological markers for diagnosis, tracking, and assessment. The study aims to advance treatment research in autism by creating methods to measure social function and develop indicators of long-term clinical outcome.
Discovered a cause of mental retardation and autism
Scientists have discovered a mutated gene, JMJD1C, responsible for cases of unknown origin intellectual disability and autism. The study analyzed the genome of 215 patients with these conditions and found that this gene contributes to Rett syndrome.
Study finds autism, ADHD run high in children of chemically intolerant mothers
A new study by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio found that mothers with chemical intolerances are two to three times more likely than other women to have a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children of these mothers reported having more illnesses an...
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateJul 20, 2015
Miniature brains made from patient skin cells reveal insights into autism
Researchers created miniature brains from patient skin cells to study autism, finding altered gene expression networks and an imbalance in neuron type. Suppressing a key gene corrected this bias, suggesting possible clinical interventions.
Potential target pathway may pave way therapeutic approaches fragile X syndrome & autism
Researchers at VIB have identified a promising target pathway for treating fragile X syndrome and autism. By targeting the APP-ADAM10 pathway, scientists may be able to ameliorate deficits associated with these conditions. The study's findings open new avenues for developing non-toxic therapeutic agents.
Making 'miniature brains' from skin cells to better understand autism
Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have developed a stem cell study that could help predict autism spectrum disorder and identify new drug targets. The study used skin cells to generate simulated brain organoids, revealing gene expression and developmental abnormalities in autism.
Review examines nutritional issues related to autism spectrum disorder
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders often exhibit poor nutrition due to selective eating patterns and sensory sensitivity. Early warning signs include lower folate, vitamin B-6, and vitamin B-12 concentrations, as well as abnormally accelerated growth rates in infants and children.
Scientists find mechanism for altered pattern of brain growth in autism spectrum disorder
Researchers have discovered a key mechanism behind brain growth abnormalities in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, revealing how PTEN gene mutations alter the trajectory of early brain development. Excess glia cells and changes in β-Catenin signaling contribute to the observed brain overgrowth.
New evidence linking brain mutation to autism, epilepsy and other neuro disorders
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that a specific brain mutation can impair a biochemical process in the brain, leading to impaired synaptic function and contributing to neurological diseases. The researchers found that a mutation called A548T in synapsin 1a reduces its ability to regulate chemical transmission.
Brain study reveals insights into genetic basis of autism
Researchers discovered over 100 DNA segments, known as enhancers, that play a vital role in normal development by controlling gene activity in the human brain. The study provides new insights into the genetic basis of autism and related neurological disorders.
Study identifies brain abnormalities in people with schizophrenia
A large-scale study has identified structural brain abnormalities in patients with schizophrenia, including smaller hippocampus and amygdala volumes and larger ventricle volumes. The findings provide new insights into the condition's development and potential treatment responses.
NIH awards Indiana University $900,000 to study link between body temperature and autism
A new NIH-funded study at Indiana University will investigate the potential connection between fever and relief of some autism symptoms in children. The researchers aim to understand how physiological deficits in regulating body temperature affect social behaviors associated with autism.
Predicting happiness of couples raising children with autism
A study by researchers at the University of Miami found that individual traits such as optimism, social and spouse support, benefit finding, and coping styles positively associated with better relationship satisfaction for parents of children with ASD. The study highlights the importance of positive traits in enhancing family functioni...
Can autism be measured in a sniff?
Researchers discovered that children with autism spectrum disorder exhibit a unique sniffing pattern when exposed to pleasant or unpleasant odors, allowing for accurate classification with high accuracy. The study suggests that olfactory tests could be used as an early indicator of ASD, potentially leading to more effective intervention.
Preemies at high risk of autism don't show typical signs of disorder in early infancy
A small study found that premature babies who avoid eye contact in early infancy are less likely to display symptoms of autism at age 2 compared to those who maintain eye contact. The researchers suggest that preemies may avert their gazes as a coping mechanism, signaling an inability to handle stressors.
Study examines cesarean section delivery and autism spectrum disorder
A study examining cesarean section delivery and autism spectrum disorder found an initial association between the two, but further analysis of sibling pairs revealed no causal link. The study suggests that unknown genetic or environmental factors may contribute to the increased risk of both cesarean section and autism spectrum disorder.
Autism: The value of an integrated approach to diagnosis
A study combining clinical assessment, genomic analysis, and electroencephalography identified specific gene combinations in autistic patients that distinguished them from those with intellectual disabilities. This integrated approach provides new prospects for diagnosis and understanding of autism's physiological mechanisms.
SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 19, 2015
Interactions between cortical and subcortical regions important in hypersensitivity in ASD
Researchers at Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience found increased synchrony between sensory cortices and subcortical regions in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, contributing to hypersensitivity. This decoupling is thought to reflect the inability to block out irrelevant sensory information.
Infants' superior perception linked to later autism symptoms
Researchers have discovered that infants with superior perception skills are more likely to develop autism symptoms later in life. The study found that enhanced visual searching ability at 9 months old predicted more emergent autism symptoms at 15 months and 2 years of age.
Fragile X proteins involved in proper neuron development
A new study reveals that fragile X proteins FMRP and FXR2P play a vital role in the maturation of newly formed adult neurons. Mice lacking FXR2P had impaired learning and memory tasks, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for fragile X syndrome and autism. The study's findings also highlight the importance of fostering new nerve ce...
Youth on the autism spectrum overly sensitive to sensory stimuli have brains that react differently
A UCLA study finds that children with autism spectrum disorder who are overly sensitive to sensory stimuli have brains that react differently, leading to a condition called sensory over-responsivity. The research may lead to interventions that can help improve the lives of these children and their families.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 10, 2015
Early intensive intervention improves outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder
A recent study published in Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry demonstrates that early intensive behavioral intervention improves outcomes for young children with ASD, including intellectual ability and adaptive behavior. The study found no group differences in core autism symptoms immediately post-treat...
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 10, 2015
Low glycemic index diet reduces symptoms of autism in mice
Researchers at Salk Institute found that a low glycemic index diet reduced symptoms of autism in mice, including impaired social interactions and repetitive behaviors. The diet may influence gut bacteria and inflammation, which are linked to the development of autism.
Largest-ever study of parental age and autism finds increased risk with teen moms
A recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry found a significant increase in autism rates among children born to teenage mothers and parents with large age gaps. The research also confirmed that older parents are at higher risk of having children with autism.
Early intervention improves long-term outcomes for children with autism
A new study shows that early intensive autism intervention can lead to improved intellectual ability and reduced autism symptoms in young children. The therapy, known as the Early Start Denver Model, was found to be particularly effective in promoting social and communication skills.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJun 9, 2015
New study shows boys will be boys -- sex differences aren't specific to autism
Researchers found that boys with autism exhibit higher levels of stereotyped behaviors and cognitive difficulties than girls, but these sex differences also appear in children without ASD. The study suggests naturally occurring sex differences in all children may contribute to the observed sex differences in autism.
An initiation mechanism for dendritic spines discovered
Scientists identify protein MIM as a key player in initiating dendritic spines, which form the basis of neuronal connections. This discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying brain diseases with altered dendritic spine density.
Is dietary supplementation appropriate for children with autism spectrum disorder?
A recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often do not receive adequate nutrients from dietary supplements. Despite supplementation, many children with ASD still have deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitami...
SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJun 4, 2015
Autism struck by surprise
A new study reveals that social and sensory overstimulation is the primary driver of autistic behaviors, contradicting decades-old views of autism as a mental retardation. The research proposes that autistic brains are hyper-functional, requiring predictable and structured environments to function optimally.
Researchers unravel a genetic link with autistic behaviors -- and find a way to undo it
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have identified a genetic mutation that produces certain autistic behaviors in mice. They also found a therapeutic strategy to restore normal behaviors by reversing the disruption of neuronal communication, suggesting a promising treatment for autism.
Sleep quality influences the cognitive performance of autistic and neurotypical children
Research at the University of Montreal found that one night of poor sleep significantly decreases performance on intelligence tests in both autistic and neurotypical children. The study observed disruptions in protective brain waves during sleep, known as 'sleep spindles', which were associated with lower results on verbal IQ tests.
When children with autism grow old
A new NIH grant will help researchers at SDSU study brain connections and cognitive abilities in older adults with autism. This is a significant step towards understanding how autism affects individuals across the lifespan.
Pennington Family Foundation awards $200,000 grant to LIBD for autism research
The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) has been awarded a $200,000 grant by the Pennington Family Foundation to investigate the factors contributing to varying outcomes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The study aims to identify biological associations that can improve treatment strategies and prevent long-term ...
Autism and rare childhood speech disorder often coincide
A study by Penn State researchers reveals that 64% of children initially diagnosed with autism also have apraxia, a rare neurological speech disorder. The Checklist for Autism Spectrum Disorder (CASD) accurately diagnoses autism in children with apraxia, and ongoing screenings are crucial to prevent long-term problems.
Zebrafish model gives new insight on autism spectrum disorder
Researchers used zebrafish to study the impact of dysregulation of SYNGAP1 and SHANK3 genes on brain development and behavior. The study found that disrupting these genes leads to hyper-excitable behaviors, delayed development, and changes in brain structure.
GW researcher finds differences in RORA levels in brain may contribute to autism sex bias
A new study by GW researcher Valerie Hu found significant sex-dependent differences in brain RORA protein levels, with males having lower baseline levels and stronger correlations with genes regulated by RORA. The findings suggest that RORA deficiency may contribute to the known male bias in autism susceptibility.
Pathbreaking study by Israeli and American neuroscientists reveals autism's 'noisy' secret
Researchers used a 3D simulator to test how individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder process sensory stimuli. Contrary to previous theories, the study found that autistic participants demonstrated intact multi-sensory integration in both coherent and noisy environments.
Fine particulate air pollution associated with increased risk of childhood autism
A study by the University of Pittsburgh found an association between exposure to fine particulate air pollution and an increased risk of childhood autism. The research estimated that children exposed to higher levels of PM2.5 during pregnancy and early life were at a 1.5-fold greater risk of developing ASD.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateMay 21, 2015
Animals' presence may ease social anxiety in kids with autism
A NIH-funded study suggests that the presence of companion animals may reduce social anxiety in children with autism. Children with ASDs showed lower skin conductance levels when interacting with peers and companion animals compared to typically developing children.