Articles tagged with Autism
A study found that a single change in the oxytocin receptor gene structure affects face memory skills, suggesting an important role of oxytocin in social information processing. This discovery may lead to new strategies for improving social cognition in disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
A new study published in Cell journal strengthens the understanding that gut microbes can affect brain function and behavior, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Feeding mice a beneficial type of bacteria has been shown to reduce autism-like behaviors.
A systematic review found that non-specialist providers can deliver effective treatments for children with intellectual disabilities or lower-functioning autism spectrum disorders. The studies showed improvements in developmental, behavioral, and family outcomes with various psychosocial interventions.
Researchers found that using hot baths to raise body temperature and worm eggs to stimulate immunoregulatory factors may attenuate symptoms of autism. The study suggests that inflammation may contribute to the disorder, and these novel approaches could be future treatment options.
Research suggests that epigenetic changes, unrelated to genetic mutations, may contribute to the development of psychiatric disorders. Older fathers' sperm show a decrease in DNA methylation, which affects gene expression in offspring.
Researchers at Caltech found that altering gut bacteria can improve autism-like behaviors in mice, reducing GI problems and improving communication and social interactions. The probiotic treatment corrected a 'leaky' gut characteristic associated with autism.
Researchers found that gut bacteria changes are associated with autism-like behaviors in mice, which improved when treated with beneficial bacteria. The study suggests a potential therapeutic role for probiotics in treating gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms of autism.
A single dose of oxytocin has been shown to temporarily normalize brain regions responsible for social deficits in children with autism. The hormone facilitates social attunement, allowing brain regions involved in social behavior and cognition to activate more for social stimuli.
A study by USC scientists found that air pollution exposure amplifies the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder in children who carry a genetic variant associated with the disorder. The research, published in Epidemiology, suggests that gene-environment interactions play a significant role in autism risk.
Researchers analyzed minute movements to diagnose autism and determine its severity in children and young adults. The study found that fluctuations in hand movements can indicate the degree of autism spectrum disorder, allowing for subtyping and improved diagnosis. This breakthrough may lead to more tailored treatments.
Researchers discovered a potential new treatment for malaria by targeting the parasite's vulnerability to oxytocin, a naturally occurring hormone. Oxytocin has been shown to enhance brain activity while processing social information in children with autism spectrum disorders.
A novel approach to treating autism spectrum disorder teaches affected children to control their autonomic nervous system using computerized biofeedback and clinical hypnosis. The method recognizes symptoms as an effort to self-regulate inner turmoil, allowing children to feel better and be more socially engaging.
Researchers found that occupational therapy using sensory integration (OT-SI) provided better outcomes than standard care for children with autism. OT-SI therapy helps improve processing of sensation, leading to better participation in everyday activities.
A large Danish study of over 600,000 children found no significant link between antidepressant medication during pregnancy and the risk of autism. After adjusting for parental psychiatric diagnoses, the researchers determined that taking antidepressants during pregnancy does not further increase the risk of autism.
A Yale-led team identified common neural circuits affected by autism-risk genes and when they exert their effects on the developing human brain. The findings suggest new targeted treatments for autism may be possible, focusing on specific neural circuits at specific times.
A study led by UCSF scientists pinpointed the disruption of a single cell type in the prefrontal cortex during fetal development as a significant factor in autism emergence. The finding suggests that though hundreds of genes contribute to autism, the underlying biological mechanisms will be far fewer.
Researchers found that newborn babies show signs of body awareness by differentiating their own bodies from others. They exhibit interest in looking at another baby's face when it is stroked synchronously with their own, suggesting a mechanism for self-perception already in place.
Scientists at UCLA have made a breakthrough in understanding the biology of autism by mapping groups of autism-risk genes by function. They found that gene variants are expressed in the developing brain during critical processes, disrupting neural circuits and leading to miswiring between brain regions.
Researchers found specific neurons in the amygdala of autistic individuals respond differently to faces, with reduced processing of the eye region compared to control-group individuals. These neurons also responded more strongly to mouths than eyes, shedding light on abnormal face processing in autism.
Researchers recorded individual nerve cells in the amygdala of patients with high-functioning autism and found a specific type of neuron responding abnormally to the mouth region. The study provides new insights into mechanisms underlying autism symptoms and opens the door for further studies.
Researchers found that boys with autism who had access to screens in their bedrooms spent less time sleeping. Video-game exposure was also linked to reduced sleep among the boys with ASD. The study highlights the need for parents to monitor and limit screen use before bedtime for children with autism.
A study found that synaesthesia occurs in 18.9% of people with autism, compared to 7.2% of typical individuals. The researchers suggest that both conditions involve neural over-connectivity, leading to atypical connections between brain areas.
The Child Health Improvement through Computer Automation (CHICA) system has improved autism screening rates by identifying at-risk children at the 24-month visit. This personalized and automated patient screening process prompts pediatricians to follow up in needed areas, leading to timely diagnosis and treatment.
A cognitive-behavioral intervention called problem-solving education (PSE) may help reduce parental stress and depressive symptoms immediately after a child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Mothers of children with ASD report high levels of parental stress, depressive symptoms, and social isolation.
Research suggests hyper-connected neurons may cause social symptoms in autistic children, leading to potential new treatment strategies and early detection methods. The study found a link between brain connectivity and severity of social impairment in individuals with autism.
Researchers have identified a steady decline in attention to others' eyes in 2-6 month old infants later diagnosed with autism. This finding suggests that social engagement skills are intact shortly after birth in children with autism, and could lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
A new study by the UC Davis MIND Institute found that children with autism are six-to-eight times more likely to have gastrointestinal problems, including constipation, diarrhea, and sensitivity to foods. These symptoms are related to behavioral issues such as social withdrawal, irritability, and repetitive behaviors.
Researchers identified declining attention to others' eyes in infants later diagnosed with autism, starting from 2 months old. This finding has profound implications for early intervention strategies and suggests that interventions could build on existing levels of eye contact.
Research suggests that depressed levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) may be a biomarker for autism occurrence. Breastfeeding could serve as a natural source of IGF, potentially lowering the risk of autism development.
Researchers found a strong genetic connection between family members with autism and those with specific language impairment, characterized by speech and language difficulties. The study suggests that genes responsible for oral and written language impairments can result in similar behavioral characteristics.
The Weatherstone Fellowship program supports the development of rising talent in autism research, providing critical resources for building early careers. The five 2013 recipients will work directly with mentors and collaborate with others to share knowledge and experiences.
Researchers found an association between autism spectrum disorder risk and prenatal weight gain, after accounting for important related factors. The study suggests that weight gain during pregnancy may serve as an important marker for autism's underlying gestational etiology.
A UNC School of Medicine researcher found that three specific drugs affect three different kinds of neurotransmitter receptors crucial in Fragile X syndrome. This discovery suggests that therapies acting through different receptors may improve behavioral symptoms and intellectual outcomes for people with Fragile X.
Researchers found that video-based group instruction promotes far-reaching gains for students with ASD in social behaviors. The method has been shown to be effective and practical, even with limited resources.
Researchers at Brandeis University observed a neural firing-rate set point in neocortical neurons, which remains stable even during sensory deprivation or sleep. This homeostatic mechanism could lead to new approaches for neurological disorders.
A study published in BMJ Open found that the number of newly diagnosed autism cases in the UK has leveled off after a five-fold increase during the 1990s. In contrast, US data show a 78% rise in prevalence among 8-year-olds between 2004 and 2008.
A study led by researchers at Mount Sinai found that individuals with autism were more likely to have gene deletions than those without the disorder, which may contribute to miswiring of brain neurons. The study suggests that these deletions could impact genetic testing and have clinical significance.
A study of over 14,000 children found that autistic kids had poorer sleep quality, including shorter total sleep duration and more frequent wake-ups at night. The researchers suggest that this may be due to impaired melatonin production, which could impact neuronal development.
A team of scientists has developed a process to connect an autism-linked gene to its function. They found that mutations in the NHE9 gene cause communication problems among brain cells, contributing to autism. The study used a step-wise strategy to screen variants and identified changes that affect endosomal pH, altering cell traffic.
A study by UC Davis MIND Institute found that none of the children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome met strict diagnostic criteria for autism. Evaluations should be performed to assess autism and guide therapy selection based on symptoms such as language delay.
Research suggests oxytocin could improve social cognition and reduce repetitive behaviors in patients with autism spectrum disorders. In schizophrenia, some studies have reported encouraging effects on severity and social cognition.
Researchers have identified a genetic deficiency linked to autism that impairs neuronal growth and connectivity. By compensating for the deficient molecular mechanisms, they found that growth could be restored, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that autistic toddlers and preschoolers with better motor skills were more adept at socializing and communicating. Motor skills development is crucial for social skills, and the study highlights the importance of addressing this deficit in early interventions.
Researchers found that oxytocin plays a unique role in one-on-one bonding, which likely evolved from an existing affinity for group living. The discovery has implications for neurological disorders like autism and suggests possible new treatments for neuropsychiatric conditions.
A study of over 850,000 Danish children found a significant increase in ADHD medication use from 2003 to 2010. The prescription rates of stimulant medications for ADHD, ASD, and other psychiatric disorders rose by 61%, 16% and 3% respectively during this period.
A study found that young adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face significant difficulties in transitioning into employment. Only half of this group had ever worked for pay outside the home, and only a third were employed at the time of the survey. However, outcomes improved for those who were older, from higher income househ...
The new center aims to better explain the brain and generate ideas for addressing disorders like autism. Brown University will establish a COBRE Center for Central Nervous System Function to study key questions in neuroscience of attention and related behaviors.
Two studies found that young adults on the autism spectrum have worse employment outcomes, including lower pay rates, and are less likely to live independently after high school. Despite this, half of young adults with ASDs did become employed, suggesting potential for improvement with effective preparation and support.
A study by University of North Carolina Health Care researchers found that problems with topoisomerases can affect brain development and potentially lead to autism spectrum disorder. The discovery has significant implications for ASD detection and prevention, as inhibiting these enzymes could have a profound effect on neurodevelopment.
Mental and substance use disorders were the leading cause of non-fatal illness worldwide in 2010, with depressive disorders accounting for 40% of the burden. The analysis also found that mental and substance use disorders were responsible for more deaths than HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, with opioids causing the greatest health burden.
A recent study published in Cerebral Cortex found that high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD) children's difficulty understanding visual cues and sounds improves during adolescence. The researchers tested 222 children aged 5 to 17, including those with ASD, on their ability to integrate auditory and visual speech signals.
New research suggests that UK children are far less likely to be diagnosed with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared to their US counterparts. The study found that only 1.5% of parents in the UK reported a diagnosis of ADHD in children aged between 6-8, in contrast to 6.3% in the USA.
Researchers at the Seaver Autism Center will test Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) in children with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome, a severe type of autism. IGF-1 has shown preclinical promise in reversing nerve cell communication deficits and restoring learning and memory abilities.
The Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment (RI-CART) has received a $1.2 million grant to create a confidential registry of individuals diagnosed with autism in the state. The registry aims to improve diagnoses and treatments by connecting families with clinical experts and researchers.
A Danish study of siblings found the recurrence risk for autism spectrum disorders varied from 4.5 percent to 10.5 percent depending on the birth years. The study suggests an almost seven-fold increase in ASDs risk if an older sibling had an ASD diagnosis, highlighting the role of genetics and maternal intrauterine environment.
Children with autism exhibit exceptional math skills compared to non-autistic peers, linked to altered patterns of brain activity in visual object processing areas. The study suggests that atypical brain development can lead to remarkable cognitive strengths, contradicting the idea that autism only brings deficits.
A new study found that oxytocin increases responses to social stimuli in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, suggesting a potential treatment approach for the condition. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, used functional imaging scans to examine brain activity in participants with ASD and healthy controls.
A large retrospective analysis found that induced and augmented labor may be associated with increased risk of autism, especially among male children. The study suggests a 35% higher risk for male children undergoing both induction and augmentation compared to those who received neither treatment.
The Yerkes National Primate Research Center will explore how oxytocin affects brain communication and mental processing of social experiences in humans with autism and schizophrenia. The team aims to develop novel treatment strategies for improving social cognition in these disorders.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry demonstrates support for the DSM-5 symptom structure for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder. The researchers found that the DSM-5 model was a better fit to the data than other models used during toddler assessment.