Articles tagged with Autism
A study of almost 2,500 families found that genetic alterations in shared biological pathways are a significant risk factor for autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Individuals with ASD had more CNVs affecting genes involved in brain development and synapse function.
The proposed guidelines focus on study design, gene-variant implication, and database implications, emphasizing the need for detailed statistical analysis and evidence-based claims. Researchers highlight the importance of sharing genetic and clinical data to accelerate research and infrastructure development.
Researchers found that maternal trauma, illness, or substance abuse activates a single gene in brain cells, leading to structural abnormalities and neuropsychiatric disorders. The study suggests that even minor environmental insults can permanently change how brain cells respond.
A recent study finds that older mothers are at higher risk of having a child with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly when combined with intellectual disability. The risk is lower for fathers, who experience a more gradual increase in ASD risk as their age advances.
Researchers at UC Davis identified an association between the progressive neurodegenerative disorder fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and the formation of R-loops, which may be associated with the disorder's neurological symptoms. The study suggests that R-loops could be potential targets for drug development.
Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder exhibit atypical connectivity in theory of mind and mirror neuron system networks, associated with social impairment. The study suggests a link between abnormal ToM-MNS connectivity and sociocommunicative symptoms of ASD.
A novel screening process for early identification of infants at risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental learning delay (DLD) has been developed. The study uses biomarkers such as abrupt head circumference acceleration and absence of head tilt reflex to identify infants at risk by 9 months.
A study of nearly 1,000 mother-child pairs found prenatal SSRI exposure was nearly 3 times as likely in boys with ASD relative to typical development. Exposure during the first trimester increased risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), while third trimester exposure elevated risk for developmental delays (DD) in boys.
Researchers have identified two biomarkers, head circumference and head tilting reflex, to screen for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) at 9 months old. The study found that these infants were at risk for ASD or developmental language delay if they had a head circumference above the 75th percentile or failed the head tilting reflex test.
Research found that dog ownership provides numerous benefits to families of children with autism, including reduced stress levels, improved social skills development, and increased responsibilities. Parents should consider their child's sensitivities when choosing a pet to ensure a suitable match.
A team of researchers has discovered a network of protein interactions among autism genes, shedding light on how different variants of the same protein could alter the wiring of the entire system. The study highlights the importance of considering alternative splice forms in understanding autism genetics.
A York University study found that abnormal lipid molecules in prenatal brain development can affect neural pathways, triggering autism. Environmental factors such as chemical exposure and medication use can also impact these lipids.
A recent study found that paternal obesity may be a greater risk factor for autism spectrum disorder in children than maternal obesity. The research analyzed data from over 90,000 Norwegian children and found a doubled risk of developing autism if the father was obese compared to a normal-weight father.
A new study from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found a doubled risk of developing autism and Asperger's syndrome if a father is obese compared to a normal-weight father. The researchers also found that maternal obesity had little association with the development of autism in children.
Researchers have created a high-resolution blueprint for the developing human brain, mapping where genes are turned on and off during mid-pregnancy. This atlas provides insight into diseases like autism and the origins of human uniqueness, revealing key genetic hubs linked to social behavior and cognitive features.
Researchers have developed a new test that can detect fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), a condition similar to Parkinson's disease, in individuals as young as 30 years old. The study found that brain abnormalities associated with FXTAS may begin to develop about two decades before symptoms occur.
A study found that autism is caused by disruptions in early brain development, specifically in the formation of cortical layers. The researchers analyzed 25 genes in post-mortem brain tissue and discovered focal patches of disrupted development in most children with autism. These findings suggest that the brain can sometimes rewire con...
Researchers found that autism is caused by disrupted development of cortical layers in the brain, which leads to absent genetic markers and focal patches of abnormality. The study suggests that early treatment can lead to clinical improvement as the brain rewire connections to circumvent these defects.
Research suggests that prenatal origin of autism is related to disorganized cortical patches in the developing brain. The study found a 91% absence of cellular markers for several cortical layers in autistic case samples.
A study published in PLOS Genetics found that the DUF1220 gene family is linked to the severity of autism symptoms. The research suggests that increasing copies of this gene segment may be associated with more severe symptoms, particularly social deficits, communicative impairments, and repetitive behaviors.
High school students with autism can learn under CCSS, requiring tailored instruction to meet their diverse needs. Effective strategies include exposing them to assignments before class and delivering explicit instruction.
Research in mice suggests that autism is characterized by reduced inhibitory neuron activity and increased excitatory neuron activity, but low doses of certain anxiety medications can restore balance. This finding provides a potential new treatment strategy for managing core autistic deficits.
The Autism Speaks Weatherstone program supports nine fellows in autism research, including investigating histone methylation patterns and DNA methylation in genetic disorders. The fellows will work with top mentors to advance understanding of the brain biology of autism and develop new treatments.
A comprehensive study found that contagious yawning decreases with age and is not strongly related to variables like empathy or energy levels. However, age was the most important predictor of contagious yawning, accounting for only 8% of variability in the response.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison researcher has detected a potential association between soy formula and seizures in children with autism. The study found excess seizures among girls and in the total sample of 1,949 children who consumed soy-based infant formula.
Researchers found a strong correlation between genital malformations in newborn males and increased rates of autism and intellectual disability. County-level analysis revealed that every one percent increase in malformations was associated with a 283% increase in autism rates.
A study found that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) exhibit more gender variance, a wish to be the other gender, than their typically developing peers. The study also revealed higher rates of anxiety and depressive symptoms among these children.
A study found that children with autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are 7.59 times and 6.64 times more likely to express gender variance than their peers without these conditions. Participants with gender variance also experienced elevated anxiety and depression symptoms, but to a lesser extent among...
Researchers at UNC's Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute recommend teaching independence to adolescents with autism to enhance their chances for post-high school success. Studies show that high schoolers with autism possess superior visual thinking skills, which can be emphasized in teaching independence. Visual schedules a...
Recent years have seen progress in ASD research, with updates on genetic causes, effective treatments, and promoting success for young people with ASD entering college. The special issue of Harvard Review of Psychiatry highlights six key areas of research.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has revised key parameters for evaluating and treating autism, emphasizing early diagnosis and a team approach to care. Researchers led by Fred Volkmar recommend a coordinated medical, psychological, and communication evaluation to differentiate between autism and other disorders.
Researchers detected atypical development in nearly half of the younger siblings of children with autism by 12 months. The study found that many of these children showed delays in social, communication, cognitive, or motor development, particularly in social-communication domains.
A new program from UNC's Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute prepares students with autism for life after high school by focusing on emotions, friendships, and literacy skills. Early results show improved social interactions and confidence among participants.
The Gordon & Llura Gund foundations have donated $3 million to Autism Speaks to support the Autism Ten Thousand Genomes program, sequencing over 3,000 genomes. This gift will enhance the organization's research and technology networks, leading to real-life medical impacts on individuals and families.
A large cohort study found that females diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders have a greater number of harmful genetic mutations than males. This suggests that the female brain requires more extreme genetic alterations to produce symptoms of ASD or neurodevelopmental disorders.
Researchers Rhonda Patrick and Bruce Ames found a causal link between vitamin D, serotonin synthesis, and autism. Dietary interventions with vitamin D, tryptophan, and omega-3 fatty acids may boost brain serotonin concentrations to prevent and treat symptoms associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
A new study from Columbia University finds that the updated diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may lead to a 31% decrease in diagnoses. This change could result in thousands of children missing out on essential services and support.
Researchers demonstrate a clear causal effect of the mirror system on social understanding, finding that areas involved in action production also contribute to understanding others' actions. The study uses innovative magnetic stimulation techniques to reveal the brain's role in social cognition.
A collaborative study out of George Washington University found early signs of feeding and swallowing disruption in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. The research suggests that cranial nerves controlling food intake and swallowing are not developing correctly, leading to mis-coordination.
The Review finds that the number of recognized chemical causes of neurodevelopmental disorders has doubled, and the list of unregulated chemicals has expanded. Stringent controls could generate billions in savings and improve childhood health outcomes.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health identifies toxic chemicals as a major contributor to neurodevelopmental disabilities among children. The researchers propose mandatory testing and international regulation to control the use of these substances.
Researchers found that oxytocin, the birth hormone, naturally reduces chloride levels in neurons, controlling the expression of autistic syndrome. Administering a diuretic treatment before birth corrects abnormal chloride levels and restores brain activity to normal levels.
A new study shows that administering a drug to pregnant mice with models of autism prevents autistic behavior in their offspring. The researchers believe that abnormal chloride levels may cause the defective GABA switch associated with autism, and that these levels may be treatable beyond infancy.
Researchers found that 6-month-old infants later diagnosed with autism diverted their gaze from facial features when a face was speaking. This suggests that these infants had difficulty maintaining attention to relevant social information from an early age, which could impact their social development and communication skills.
Researchers found that two-thirds of chimpanzees are missing a genetic element linked to social bonding, leading to improved joint attention. The study suggests that this element may also play a role in autism spectrum disorders, potentially informing new diagnosis and treatment strategies.
A study by IRCM neuroethics experts highlights shortcomings in transitional care, particularly among youth with complex health needs and disabilities. The research emphasizes the importance of respectful care, autonomy support, and personalized approaches to address transition challenges.
Researchers at European Molecular Biology Laboratory identify microglia cells as major players in brain wiring and behavior. Mice with fewer microglia display weaker connections between neurons and repetitive behaviors associated with autism spectrum disorders.
A new study by Case Western Reserve University neuroscientists found that autistic children's brains produce more information when not actively engaging with the world. This excess information generation may explain their characteristic withdrawal into self, or introspection.
A new study from Autism Speaks found that a multipronged approach is needed to assess children for autism, increasing early detection rates. However, challenges remain, including limited follow-up care and shortages of specialists and therapy programs.
A new study found that combining autism with social communication disorder (SCD) would decrease estimated prevalence under DSM-5 criteria. The researchers discovered that 83% of children diagnosed with autism under the DSM-IV would also receive the diagnosis under DSM-5, while 14% were diagnosed with SCD.
Researchers will analyze genomes of three breeds to identify genes responsible for OCD-like behaviors. The study aims to provide insights for earlier diagnoses and innovative therapeutics, potentially benefiting children with autism.
Researchers have identified specific proteins disrupted by genetic mutations in people with schizophrenia, offering a new understanding of the disorder. The study also found an overlap between schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and intellectual disability.
A study by Concordia University researchers found that oxytocin can increase emotional sensitivity in healthy young adults, leading to an overreaction to social cues. The study's lead author warns against using oxytocin as a treatment for mild social anxiety without proper medical supervision.
A new report from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders identifies 29 evidence-based practices for children and youth with autism, including technology-aided instruction and exercise. These practices can help reduce costs and improve outcomes for individuals with autism.
Ueli Rutishauser, a young scientist at Cedars-Sinai, has made significant contributions to understanding the brain's role in learning, memory, and decision-making. His research has improved our understanding of autism and learning disorders, as well as the effects of epilepsy on the nervous system.
Children with autism have difficulty integrating simultaneous information from their eyes and ears, according to a Vanderbilt study. The research suggests that deficits in sensory building blocks for language and communication can hamper social and communication skills in children with autism.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal provides a comprehensive review of autism spectrum disorder, emphasizing the importance of early detection and referral to intervention services. The article highlights best practices for pediatricians and family doctors, including behavioral interventions and personalized medicine.
A study found that families with higher levels of parental education and income use more CAM therapies for children with autism. Nearly 40% of children with autism used CAM treatments, compared to 30% with developmental delay. Most CAM users chose low-risk options.
The grants will focus on reducing the average age of diagnosis, increasing access to high-quality early intervention and understanding environmental risk factors for autism. Researchers will also develop effective treatments and assess the benefits of early interventions in urban settings.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that hospital-diagnosed maternal bacterial infections during pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders in children. The study included 407 children with autism and 2,075 matched children who did not have autism.