Research on autism and neurodevelopment. Covers screening and diagnosis gaps, rising diagnoses among girls, prenatal risks, and genomics.
A study using disease-in-a-dish technology has grown neurons from Timothy Syndrome patients' skin cells, revealing defects in brain wiring and cellular calcium regulation. The findings support the link between the genetic mutation and developmental abnormalities, including reduced corpus callosum size.
Researchers found a gene mutation causing calcium channels to be defective, leading to impaired neuronal communication and development. The study used induced pluripotent stem cells to grow brain-like spheres from skin cells of patients with Timothy syndrome, which showed abnormalities in calcium levels and gene expression.
The Royal Arch Masons have awarded a $100,000 grant to Autism Speaks to investigate auditory processing disorders in children with autism. The grant aims to create better outcomes for children at risk of developing both ASD and CAPD by addressing precursor symptoms of auditory processing disorders.
Recent studies shed light on how brain structure, genes, and chemicals interact to affect behavior in individuals with autism and fragile X syndrome. The research findings offer new tools for understanding these conditions, paving the way for effective education, early intervention, and potential treatments.
Studies show how brain structure, genes, and chemicals interact to affect behavior in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. New findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for conditions like fragile X syndrome and bipolar disorder.
A new treatment called Auditory-Motor Mapping Training (AMMT) has been shown to help nonverbal children with autism develop speech. The study found that children who received AMMT were able to approximate whole words and phrases, with noticeable improvements as early as two weeks into the treatment.
A new study found that autism diagnoses vary significantly across different clinical centers, with varying use of subcategories like Asperger syndrome. The research suggests that a more standardized approach to diagnosing autism spectrum disorders would provide more accurate and consistent information about individual patients.
A recent NIH-funded study found that children with autism have more brain cells and heavier brains compared to typically developing children. The researchers suggest that faulty prenatal cell birth or maintenance may be involved in the development of autism.
A preliminary study found that children with autism had an average 67% more prefrontal brain neurons and a larger than average brain weight compared to children without autism. The researchers also discovered significant differences in neuron counts in the PFC, with 79% more neurons in one subdivision.
A study published by researchers at the University of California, San Diego found a 67% excess of cortical cells in children with autism, pointing to prenatal processes gone awry as a possible cause. The excess neurons were discovered in areas associated with social, communication and cognitive development.
A study characterizes epigenetic signatures of autism in brain tissue, finding hundreds of genomic loci affected by altered histone methylation. The research provides new insights into the genetic and epigenetic risk maps of developmental brain disorders.
Researchers found inconsistent best-estimate clinical diagnoses for autism spectrum disorders across 12 university-based sites, highlighting regional variations and implications for diagnostic frameworks. The study suggests moving towards dimensional descriptions of core features, rather than existing subgroupings.
Researchers mapped epigenetic changes in neurons from individuals with autism, finding hundreds of sites affected by histone methylation alterations. The study reveals considerable overlap between genetic and epigenetic risk maps for developmental brain disorders.
A genome-wide association study has identified the TBL1X gene as a novel candidate gene for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in males. The study found an association between variations in the TBL1X gene and an increased risk of ASD, with an estimated 15% increase in risk.
Recent research reveals that autistic individuals have superior cognitive abilities in perception and reasoning, challenging the long-held notion of autism as a deficiency. Autistic individuals like Michelle Dawson make significant contributions to scientific understanding through their unique perspectives and strengths.
Researchers found that antidepressants given to rats during development led to brain abnormalities and behavioral traits similar to autism spectrum disorder. The study suggests a potential link between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and the rise in developmental disorders in children.
A study found that rats given a commonly prescribed antidepressant during development exhibited brain abnormalities and behaviors characteristic of autism spectrum disorders. The researchers suggest that taking SSRIs during pregnancy may contribute to the rise in developmental disorders in children.
Researchers at UCLA found that boys with autism have slower growth rates in brain regions important for language and social skills, leading to unusual brain circuits. This study suggests delayed brain development may contribute to symptoms of autism and could improve treatment options.
A study by Rice University biochemist Michael Stern suggests a possible link between Type 2 diabetes and autism due to impaired glucose tolerance and hyperinsulinemia. This common underlying mechanism may lead to the development of new treatments for autistic children, including low-carbohydrate diets.
University of Missouri researchers have identified distinct differences in facial characteristics between children with autism and typically developing children. The study found that children with autism have broader eyes, a shorter middle face region, and a wider mouth, which may enable further study of the underlying causes of autism.
The research aims to identify essential ingredients of a successful transition from intensive early intervention to the public school system. It focuses on student-teacher relationships, which are particularly important for children with autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers at UC Davis found a genetic variant associated with autoantibodies in pregnant women that may increase their child's risk of developing autism. The study suggests a potential screening test for women at risk of having an autistic child, offering new hope for early intervention and prevention.
A new method has enabled the accurate sequencing and identification of genetic variants on the X chromosome, a hotspot for genes linked to autism and intellectual disability. The technology allows for fast and efficient analysis, potentially leading to easier clinical diagnosis and novel discoveries.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing have found a link between low birthweight and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders. Premature infants are five times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than children born at normal weight, according to the study published in Pediatrics.
Researchers found that premature infants are five times more likely to develop autism, with a 5% diagnosis rate compared to 1% in the general population. The study, which followed 862 children from birth to young adulthood, suggests low birthweight may be a risk factor for autism spectrum disorders.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is launching a new autism curriculum, 'Autism Case Training', to educate future pediatricians on identifying, diagnosing, and managing autism spectrum disorders. The curriculum consists of seven case-based studies and emphasizes practical skills for patient and parent interaction.
Studies followed children from 6 months to age 3, finding that those who would later develop autism exhibited distinct behaviors at 12 months, including joint attention and imitation issues. Early intervention techniques are being developed to address these signs, with promising early results.
The Autism Speaks BGI collaboration aims to generate the world's largest library of sequenced genomes of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The initiative will perform whole genome sequencing on over 2,000 participating families and collect data from China.
An expert at the University of Missouri has identified employment resources for adults with autism, including state vocational rehabilitation programs and job seekers' recommendations. These resources aim to improve workplace accommodations and hiring processes, enabling individuals with autism to succeed in the workforce.
The selected studies will evaluate the effectiveness of promising behavioral and medical treatments for core symptoms and associated medical issues in children, adolescents, and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Three pilot projects focus on social engagement and language development in non-verbal individuals, while three o...
Researchers discovered high-functioning individuals with autism do not consider others' thoughts when making decisions. This finding provides insight into the psychology of autism-spectrum disorders and has implications for therapies and public education.
A genetically engineered mouse model with tripled Ube3a gene dosage exhibits robust examples of all three traits considered hallmarks of autism: reduced social interaction, impaired communication, and excessive repetitive behaviors. The study provides further clues in understanding brain defects that lead to autism development.
A 16-year study confirms the accuracy of autism diagnosis in children with Down syndrome using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The research found that clinicians can use the DSM to identify autism spectrum disorders in these individuals, providing them with targeted educational and intervention services.
Scientists at CSHL have discovered that a 27-gene cluster deletion on chromosome 16 causes autism-like features. Mouse models revealed that inheriting fewer copies of these genes leads to behaviors and brain alterations characteristic of autism.
A defective gene in mice shows behaviors and symptoms similar to those observed in humans with autism spectrum disorders. The animals respond similarly to an FDA-approved drug used to treat repetitive behaviors in people with autism.
Researchers created a mouse model that displays remarkably similar symptoms and behavior as children and adults on the autism spectrum. The animals responded well to an FDA-approved drug prescribed to treat repetitive behaviors often associated with the disease.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that propranolol may improve language and social skills in people with autism. The drug acts by reducing stress-induced norepinephrine effects, allowing the brain to function more flexibly.
Asperger individuals display uneven profiles of performance in common intelligence test batteries, but scores are much higher on a reasoning-based test called Raven's Progressive Matrices. This suggests a common information processing mechanism for both Asperger and autistic individuals.
Research suggests that early, intensive therapy is most effective in improving social-communication skills for children with autism. A study of over 1,000 children found that those who received more comprehensive treatment achieved better outcomes.
The Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network has received a $12 million federal grant to continue its work in supporting clinical research, developing best-practice guidelines, and providing tool kits for families and physicians. The funding will also support the development of additional research within the ATN, including clinical trial...
The 'Hacking Autism' initiative selects seven new software applications to be built by volunteer developers, aiming to improve daily life for individuals with autism. The selected apps include social stories, calendar management, medical journals, and communication tools.
Research from Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network found that over half of children and adolescents with autism also have ADHD symptoms, compromising their adaptive abilities and quality of life. The study highlights the importance of identifying and treating ADHD symptoms in individuals with autism.
Research finds children with autism and GI disturbances have changed genes involved in digestion, altering intestinal bacteria. These changes may contribute to behavioral disturbances in some cases.
A new study published in Autism Research found that parental age, maternal ethnicity, and paternal age are associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID), while household income has no significant link. The research also identified demographic risk factors such as male gender and...
Autism Speaks has launched a new toolkit to help parents prepare their child for blood draws and routine medical procedures, reducing stress and improving the overall experience. The tool kit provides practical strategies, visual supports, and guidance for medical practitioners to create a smoother approach.
A transgenic mouse model exhibiting behavioral parallels with humans diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder has improved scientific understanding and may lead to diagnostic tests based on biomarkers. The research could also help design targeted interventions and treatments.
Researchers from Boston Medical Center will study neurological and brain abnormalities in former extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANS) with a $13 million NIH grant. The study aims to identify infants at high risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and establish a method for prophylactic interventions.
A new study by Stanford Medicine and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital uses a novel method to analyze brain-scan data, distinguishing children with autism from typically developing children. The findings show that gray matter in social communication and self-related brain regions has a distinct organization in people with autism.
The reappearance of measles is linked to unfounded fears about a link between the measles shot and autism, says Dr. Gregory Poland. Despite over 20 studies finding no connection between MMR vaccine and autism, some parents have turned against childhood vaccination.
Researchers at SUNY Downstate have developed a diagnostic test to measure the risk of folate receptor autoantibodies, associated with neural tube defects, autism spectrum disorders, and other neurodevelopmental diseases. The test aims to identify women and children at risk for these conditions, potentially preventing neural tube defect...
Researchers found that pupils with autism stuck rigidly to tasks in the order they were given, despite potential time savings. Difficulty with prospective memory also contributed to their challenges, and the study suggests ways to address these issues through task modification and training.
A large international multi-site study found the recurrence risk of autism in younger siblings to be substantially higher, with a combined estimated risk of nearly 19%. The risk is especially elevated among male infants, with over 32% diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that 19% of younger siblings of children with autism developed autism, with males having a significantly higher risk than females. The study also showed an increased risk for male infants with two older siblings who have autism, at over 32%
A new brain imaging study reveals that autistic individuals' use of incorrect pronouns reflects a disordered neural representation of the self, processed by at least two brain areas. The research found significantly diminished synchronization in autism between frontal and posterior brain regions during pronoun use.
Researchers discuss the function of mirror neurons in humans, including their limited role in understanding speech and unexpected capabilities in understanding minds, particularly in individuals with autism. The study clarifies the limits of mirror neuron functions in humans.
Scientists use optogenetics to induce social-behavior deficits in mice resembling those seen in people with autism and schizophrenia. The findings lend credence to a hypothesis that an altered balance between excitatory and inhibitory nerve cells may contribute to the development of these disorders.
The International conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities in Bangladesh and South East Asia marked the launch of a revolutionary South Asia Autism Network. The network aims to identify common challenges and form partnerships to develop solutions for autistic individuals in South Asian families and countries.
Scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a biological sign of autism in very young toddlers by scanning their brain activity while sleeping. The study found that autistic brains exhibited weaker synchronization between brain areas tied to language and communication compared to non-autistic children.
Researchers have identified key mRNA molecules that the Fragile-X mental retardation protein binds to in brains of mice, suggesting new avenues for treating intellectual disability and autism. The study also proposes two possible treatment strategies: lowering specific protein activity or replacing FMRP's ability to regulate translation.
Research reveals microglia cells prune connections between neurons, shaping brain wiring. The discovery could help understand autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.