Articles tagged with Autism
A new study published in Neurology suggests that women who take valproate during pregnancy may significantly increase their child's risk of developing autism. The research found that children exposed to valproate were seven times more likely to develop autism than those not exposed.
Researchers used MEG to identify timing abnormalities in the brains of patients with autism, finding a fraction of a second delay in brain activity. This delay may underpin language processing and communication impairment in autistic children.
The Infant Brain Imaging Study (IBIS) is expanding its research on infant brain development and autism symptoms. The study aims to identify changes in brain structure and behavior that may indicate the onset of autistic symptoms, with potential benefits including early screening measures and treatments.
Research by the M.I.N.D. Institute shows that mutations of the fragile X gene cause a range of diseases, including neurodevelopmental delays, autism, infertility, and neurodegenerative disease in older adults. The institute urges testing for all patients who show signs of diseases linked to FMR1 mutations.
Researchers from GU/GUMC presented numerous studies on learning, facial recognition, and social interaction in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, they explored ways to improve cognition and reduce brain lesions in stroke survivors using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) techniques.
Scientists have identified a relationship between two proteins in the brain linked to both nicotine addiction and autism. The discovery suggests that existing drugs used to curb nicotine addiction might serve as a basis for potential therapies to alleviate autism symptoms.
A study by Cornell researchers has identified a possible environmental trigger for autism in genetically vulnerable children, which could lead to preventable diagnoses. The study found that higher levels of precipitation are associated with increased autism prevalence rates in counties with more exposed children.
Researchers found that infants later diagnosed with autism displayed unusual exploration of objects, including spinning and repetitive visual examination, as early as 12 months. These behaviors could be added to parent check-lists or quickly assessed during pediatric visits, potentially improving early diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers have identified the CNTNAP2 gene as a key player in childhood language disorders, with variants linked to specific language impairment (SLI) and delayed language development in children with autism. The study provides new insights into the molecular basis of language development and its relationship to autism.
A study found that children living in counties with higher annual precipitation had a higher risk of developing autism. The association suggests an environmental trigger for the condition, potentially related to increased indoor activities and decreased exposure to sunshine.
Recent studies suggest that methylmercury can cause irreversible brain damage in unborn children at previously considered safe levels of exposure. Methylmercury toxicity is well-known, but its effects on the developing nervous system have been underestimated.
Research funded by the Wellcome Trust found people with autism spectrum disorders tend to be more consistent in their decision-making due to reduced emotional influence. This attention to detail can help them avoid irrational choices but may hinder social interactions that require gut instincts.
Researchers used a new genetic screening method, MLPA, on children with autism spectrum disorders to identify known genetic causes of cognitive impairment. The study found efficient identification of well-known genetic disorders and novel genetic changes contributing to ASDs, such as microduplications in chromosomes 15 and 22.
Researchers discovered that children with autism spend less time looking at a teacher's face when imitating new skills, compared to typically developing children. This finding sheds light on why children with autism struggle to learn from others and may lead to potential interventions.
A Rutgers researcher is studying how visual analysis of body movements can help identify potential terrorist threats and improve interactions with autistic individuals. People with few autistic tendencies are found to be better at detecting subtle cues, which could lead to the development of computer programs to train them.
A national survey reveals that nearly one in four parents believe vaccines cause autism, leading to fewer vaccinations and a growing number of measles infections. The study's findings highlight the lingering fear and confusion surrounding vaccines, despite overwhelming scientific evidence debunking the link.
The symposium will showcase cutting-edge research on autism, including a follow-up study of Hans Asperger's original patients and investigations into the brain basis of social difficulties. Researchers will present their latest findings on the disorder, shedding light on its fundamental nature and future directions.
A Yale University study found that two-year-olds with autism focus significantly more on mouths than eyes, predicting social disability levels. The researchers hope this biomarker can aid early detection and intervention for autism.
The Rett Syndrome Research Trust aims to bring novel therapeutics addressing the underlying MECP2 pathology to clinical trials within five years. Classic Rett Syndrome affects females almost exclusively, causing severe physical disability and requiring total care.
Researchers discovered that a rare genetic disorder, tuberous sclerosis complex, may be linked to neurological disorders such as autism, epilepsy, and mental retardation. The study found that abnormal neuronal structure can lead to excess brain connections, which may contribute to these conditions.
A study found a link between a chromosomal aberration at 1q21.1 and various developmental disorders in children, including mental retardation, growth issues, seizures, autism, and heart defects. The researchers suggest that the aberration may contribute to subtle disorders in carriers who appear unaffected.
A study published in Public Library of Science found no association between the MMR vaccine and the onset of autism or gastrointestinal symptoms in children. The study analyzed bowel tissues from 25 children with autism and GI disturbances, as well as 13 controls, and found no presence of measles virus RNA in either group.
Research has identified several genes associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), including neuroligins and SHANK3. These genetic findings provide new understanding of the underlying causes of ASD, which affect approximately 60 in 10,000 children worldwide.
Researchers found unusual vocal patterns in BTBR mice, which could be used to model impaired communication in autism. The study suggests that these unique patterns may resemble those seen in some autistic infants and young children.
University of Missouri researchers are studying facial features and brain structures in children with autism to develop a formula for earlier detection. The study aims to reveal genetic clues that can direct additional research and lead to more precise diagnosis.
Researchers have identified four mutated gene regions linked to schizophrenia, offering new hope for treatment and diagnosis. The findings may lead to individualized medicine and earlier identification of those at risk.
Researchers found inefficient pathways transmit information between brain regions, impairing social understanding and intention detection. The study suggests a lack of synchronization in the Theory of Mind network is responsible for social challenges in autism.
Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering found that robot interactions can increase social behavior and utterances in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The creation of therapy tools using bubble-blowing robots is the next step in this research.
A new study by UNC and Caltech researchers found that some parents of children with autism process face information differently than other parents, suggesting a genetic link. The study analyzed 42 parents of autistic children and found that those who were socially aloof relied more heavily on the mouth to recognize emotions.
A study by Caltech and UNC researchers found that some parents of children with autism process face information differently, suggesting a genetic link. The analysis revealed that these parents relied more heavily on the mouth to recognize emotions than non-aloof parents or those without autism.
Researchers identified six genes associated with autism by analyzing large Middle Eastern families where both parents shared a recent ancestor. The study suggests that these genes affect learning and memory, and may be treatable through gene therapy or enriched learning environments.
A study of Middle Eastern families with a high incidence of autism identified six new genes involved in the brain's ability to form new connections. The findings suggest that autism may stem from disruptions in experience-dependent learning, which is essential for learning and memory.
Researchers found that autism mutations may disrupt specific genes vital to the developing brain, which are turned on and off by neuronal activity. Disruption of this refinement process may be a common mechanism of autism-associated mutations.
Recent advances in autism research have highlighted the importance of genetics in the causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Scientists have identified the first autism disease genes, which may lead to new therapeutic strategies for treatment interventions.
Researchers at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research have found a direct link between neural stem cell development and Autism. Mice lacking the myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C) protein showed smaller brains, fewer nerve cells, and behaviors similar to those seen in humans with Rett Syndrome.
Researchers at UCLA discovered that rapamycin reverses learning deficits caused by tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder also linked to autism. The study shows that the disease's impact can be reversed through biochemical changes, restoring normal brain function and memory.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine identify adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) as a central organizer of neuronal cholinergic synapse assembly. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms directing synapse formation, potentially shedding new insights into learning and memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and schi...
Research at the University of Washington suggests that faulty brain connections might be responsible for social impairments in adults with autism. The study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to compare brain activity in individuals with high-functioning autism and typically developed adults while looking at faces.
Researchers aim to find out how effective early intervention is for children diagnosed with ASD by 18 months old. The study will examine the impact of parent-implemented intervention on toddlers with ASD and their families.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed an eye-tracking technology that can detect autism in babies as young as nine months old. This tool distinguishes between siblings with autism and those without at this early age, offering a faster and more objective diagnostic process.
Researchers identified associations between genetic variants in genes controlling affiliative behaviors and social deficits in autistic children. The strongest findings implicate the prolactin gene, oxytocin receptor gene, and prolactin receptor gene.
A study led by UCLA researcher Istvan Molnar-Szakacs aims to understand how children with ASD process emotions through musical excerpts and facial expressions. The goal is to develop more optimal interventions and promote music as a powerful tool for brain function research.
A multi-site consortium is gathering genetic and behavioral information about cases with only one family member having autism. The Simons Simplex Collection will create a database of genetic and behavioral information, leading to the discovery of new genetic factors that increase the risk of autism.
Research linked parents' psychiatric disorders to autism in children, revealing a higher rate of schizophrenia and depression among mothers. The study suggests genetic and environmental factors may be shared among related diseases.
A study from Temple University found that sensory integration therapy significantly reduced autistic mannerisms in children, leading to improved behavior and learning outcomes. The treatment enabled children to better regulate their responses to sensations and situations, making self-care and classroom activities more manageable.
Researchers discovered that many individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) possess rich pragmatic abilities, particularly in literal talk, challenging the notion of their limited communication skills.
Researchers identified a genetic defect affecting energy production in muscles of children with autism spectrum disorders, leading to muscle weakness. The study found that 65% of the children had defects in oxidative phosphorylation, highlighting the importance of understanding how genes impact mitochondrial function.
A study suggests that changes in diagnostic criteria for developmental language disorders may be contributing to the increase in autism diagnoses. The research found that around a quarter of children diagnosed with language impairments as children would now meet current criteria for autistic spectrum disorder.
Research suggests that households with children with autism spend thousands on educational, behavioral, and healthcare expenses each year. Additionally, they miss out on household income due to the 'money in, money out' equation, resulting in a loss of $6,200 annually.
The Drexel University School of Public Health has been awarded a $14.3 million NIH grant to study risk factors and biological indicators for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in expectant mothers and their babies. The researchers aim to follow 1,200 mothers of children with autism and document the development of newborns through 36 months.
The NIH has awarded grants to researchers studying early brain development, social interactions, rare genetic variants, and potential environmental risk factors for autism. Researchers at Yale and Wayne State University aim to identify novel treatments using buspirone and explore the relationship between genes and physical traits.
The Interactive Autism Network (IAN) has facilitated connections between parents and researchers, providing valuable data on causes, treatments, and potential cures for autism. The registry has revealed significant insights, including maternal depression and ineffective treatments.
Researchers have discovered that a brain network linked to introspective tasks is less intricate and well-connected in children, with firmer connections forming as individuals mature. This finding has implications for understanding the effects of aging, brain injuries, and conditions like autism on brain function.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a sticky blood protein that regulates serotonin transporter activity, potentially contributing to autism. The discovery may lead to new treatments for autism and depression.
A new study reveals that families of children with autism often experience substantial financial burdens, including high therapy costs and reduced lifestyle choices. Financial planners can help direct families to available resources and encourage smart spending decisions to mitigate these effects.
Researchers at Northwestern University have found that children with high-functioning autism produce more contingent sentences when interacting with virtual peers. This suggests that virtual peers can be a useful tool in helping children with autism develop communication and social skills. The study aims to generalize these skills to m...
A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroimmunology found that mothers of autistic children may produce antibodies against their fetuses' brain tissue, which can cause changes leading to autism. The study suggests an association between maternal antibody production and developmental regression in children with autism.
A study by UC-Davis researchers found that antibodies in mothers of children with autism bind to fetal brain cells, potentially disrupting healthy development. The findings suggest a possible link between the maternal immune system and autism risk, paving the way for future research on prenatal identification and prevention.
A new study from the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute suggests that brain-directed antibodies during pregnancy may be a causal factor for some cases of autism. The research found that exposure to IgG antibodies in pregnant monkeys exhibited repetitive behaviors similar to those seen in children with autism.
Researchers have discovered characteristic patterns of brain activity in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that reflect an inability to perceive themselves as social creatures. The study found that individuals with ASD exhibit diminished perception of self in social interactions, similar to those playing against a computer.