Research on autism and neurodevelopment. Covers screening and diagnosis gaps, rising diagnoses among girls, prenatal risks, and genomics.
Researchers have identified a specific gene, EN2, that contributes to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Variations in this gene may affect brain development and behavior. The study also found changes in neurotransmitter systems, including acetylcholine and serotonin, which may disrupt communication between cells.
Brain imaging studies identify differences in left/right dominance linked to language problems, distinguishing them from autism. Language impairment is strongly associated with a larger right-sided Broca's area.
A team of Hopkins researchers is using new genome searching technologies to identify genetic factors contributing to autism. They will analyze data from 465 families and 979 individuals with autism, focusing on rare genetic mutations and extra or missing gene copies.
Researchers found that autistic boys with normal language capabilities have a typical brain organization, while those with language problems exhibit similar brain changes as non-autistic boys with Specific Language Impairment. The study supports the idea that autism and SLI are disruptions in neurodevelopment and neurobiology.
Timothy syndrome is caused by spontaneous genetic mutations that interfere with calcium channels regulating heart excitation and contraction. A class of drugs may alleviate arrhythmia, while improving cognitive function in some cases. The disorder affects 200,000 to 400,000 children in the US.
A recent UK study published in The Lancet has found no association between the MMR vaccine and the development of autism or pervasive developmental disorders. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,300 cases and 4,469 controls, concluding that vaccination did not increase the risk of these conditions.
A new genetic hypothesis proposes that most cases of autism can be explained by a complex model for genetic malfunction, involving both inherited and de novo genetic factors. The study suggests epigenetic components, including genetic imprinting, play a major role in the etiology of autism.
Researchers found abnormalities in brain activity among people with normal IQs who have autism, indicating a deficiency in coordination among brain areas. The study proposes the underconnectivity theory, which suggests that autism is a distributed system-wide disorder limiting integration among brain areas.
Researchers developed a new approach to interpreting brain electroencephalograms that provides an unprecedented view of thought in action. The technique uses Independent Component Analysis to separate signals from different areas of the brain, enabling detailed insights into neural dynamics.
Researchers found thimerosal exposure in mice led to autism-like behaviors, including abnormal responses to environments and brain abnormalities. The study suggests a potential connection between genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers for autism, highlighting the need for further research and intervention strategies.
An Australian study investigated the connection between autism and pregnancy-related complications, finding increased risk for older parents, firstborn children, and certain medical interventions. The research suggests that early nongenetic influences may play a role in some cases of autism development.
Research reveals that autistic children can access and analyze musical details more readily than typically developing children. A subgroup of participants achieved impressive scores, even without prior musical training.
A Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study found a positive association between autism and immune system disorders, including respiratory and skin allergies. Autistic children were less likely to have asthma compared to their non-autistic peers.
Researchers have identified two specific brain areas activated when people make mental state judgments, shedding light on the neural basis of everyday theory of mind. This finding may help develop interventions for individuals with autism who struggle with social skills and mental state decoding.
Researchers identified a genetic mutation in one gene that increases the risk of autism by approximately doubling it, according to Dr. Joseph Buxbaum's study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.
A new form of the MECP2 protein has been discovered to be associated with Rett syndrome, a devastating neurological disorder affecting approximately 3,000 girls in the US. This breakthrough finding promises to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of Rett syndrome and other developmental disabilities.
Two American journalists, Fauber and Singer, are selected for American Academy of Neurology Journalism Fellowships to attend the 56th Annual Meeting in San Francisco. They will learn about latest advances in neurology research and treatment, and make contacts with experts in the field.
The main thrust of a 1998 Lancet paper described an unexpected intestinal lesion in children, raising the possibility of a link between MMR vaccine and autism. Despite lack of evidence, the paper's interpretation sparked major implications for public health, leading to formal retraction by the authors.
Researchers have found that autistic children's brains can activate the temporal lobe, a key region for face processing, when viewing familiar faces. This suggests that increased exposure to faces, such as those of parents, may improve facial recognition in individuals with autism.
A new study suggests that individuals with autism can develop face recognition skills through specialized training. The research found that the fusiform gyrus, a brain region responsible for face processing, is activated in adults with autism, but requires training to function properly.
Researchers found that exposure to thimerosal, a vaccine preservative, can interrupt growth factor signaling and cause adverse effects on methylation reactions. This can lead to disorders such as autism and ADHD in infants and children.
Researchers discovered that a small mutation in the fragile X gene causes tremors, balance problems, and dementia in older men. Genetic screening is recommended for men with these symptoms, especially those carrying the premutation, to accurately diagnose and treat Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Atxa Syndrome (FXTAS).
According to a new study, 32% of autistic children use complementary and alternative medicine, with Latino children more likely to do so. The researchers caution that some CAM treatments may alleviate associated problems but not core autism symptoms.
Children with hyperlexia display exceptional reading skills, often exceeding their age, yet struggle with social interactions. FMRI studies reveal distinct brain activity patterns, highlighting the neural mechanisms underlying this rare condition.
Two Vanderbilt researchers have received NAAR fellowships to develop new tools for identifying and understanding the genetic causes of autism. Lynnette Henderson is working on extending Stone's Screening Tool for Autism in Two-year-olds, while Jacob McCauley will conduct a genetic analysis of serotonergic and GABA-ergic genes.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that participants were more likely to incorrectly identify a similar image as part of the original set, even though it was not present. This suggests that visual false memories can be induced using context, challenging our perceptions and memory recall.
The New York Academy of Sciences has launched a new website, eBriefings, which provides user-friendly access to top science and health issues. The platform features eBriefings on autism, adolescent brain development, and neuroethical challenges in cognitive enhancement and learning.
Linda Brzustowicz will lead research on hereditary patterns of autistic behaviors, analyzing 'trio' samples from autistic individuals and their parents to define genes linked to the disorder. The study aims to better understand, treat, and potentially prevent autism.
Researchers discovered that monkeys reflexively shift their attention to the direction of another individual's gaze, mirroring human behavior. This finding holds promise for a new animal model of social attention, which could lead to better treatments for autism and improved teaching methods.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that eight autistic children who participated in the Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) program showed significant improvements in IQ scores and adaptive behavior. Six of the children achieved average IQ scores, while two improved to mild mental retardation.
Researchers at UCSD School of Medicine and Children's Hospital found rapid brain growth in infants with autism, linked to early diagnosis and improved outcomes. The study identified a window of abnormal brain development, predicting the severity of autism, and suggests earlier interventions could improve treatment.
A two-year study found autistic children have difficulty with early face-to-face interaction, which relates to pointing and showing abilities. The research suggests this problem starts earlier in development than previously thought.
The NIMH has awarded $22.6 million to a new Center for Collaborative Research on Mental Disorders, aiming to advance understanding of genetic origins of mental health conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. The center will facilitate data sharing and analysis to accelerate gene discovery and develop novel therapeutic targets.
The Rutgers Center for Genetic Research on Mental Disorders will investigate the genetic basis of mental disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, and depression. The center aims to identify inherited factors that determine individual likelihood for developing each disorder.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded grants to support six new autism research centers. The centers, led by renowned experts in the field, will focus on understanding brain abnormalities, diagnosis, early detection, prevention, and treatment of individuals with autism. This major network of centers aims to reduce the bur...
Duke University researchers used a new statistical method called ordered subset analysis to identify a strong link between the GABRB3 gene and autism. By grouping patients with similar traits together statistically, they discovered a genetic risk factor that was missed by looking at the larger group.
Researchers will enroll up to 2,000 children with differing patterns of development to compare environmental exposures and physiologic factors. The study aims to gain a better understanding of the multiple ways autism and other developmental delays may occur.
A new study from the University of Washington found that neither natural porcine secretin nor a synthetic form of the hormone reduced symptoms of autism. The research involved 85 children with autism and tested the effects of both forms of secretin versus a placebo, concluding there is no evidence for its effectiveness.
A clinical trial using fMRI found that secretin activates the amygdala, a brain region involved in social integration and implicated in autism. The study suggests that secretin may have a role in modulating certain social behaviors in humans.
A nationwide study aims to identify genetic markers for autism and improve early detection, helping families receive timely support. The study will involve 75 children with autism, 40 developmentally delayed children, and 40 normally developing ones.
The NIH Autism Coordinating Committee has selected two new centers to conduct autism research, expanding the agency's commitment to the field. The centers will focus on understanding the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of autism, with a goal of advancing knowledge about this devastating condition.
Researchers found risperidone significantly more effective than placebo in improving behavior in children with autism, with 69% showing improvement compared to 12% on placebo. The medication was well-tolerated but associated with a substantial increase in body weight.
A new study found that risperidone, an antipsychotic agent, was effective in reducing irritability and behavioral problems in children with severe autism. The trial involved 101 children between ages 5 and 17, showing a significant positive response to treatment, with 69% experiencing marked improvement.
Autistic children exhibit significantly increased cerebral volumes compared to typically developing children, suggesting abnormal brain development processes occur very early. Brain volume levels out to normal size by adolescence and adulthood.
Researchers have discovered abnormal immune regulation and autoimmunity in children with a form of autism characterized by sudden regression. The study reveals distinct autoimmune features in the epithelium of the small bowel, which may contribute to bowel symptoms and cognitive regression in autistic children.
A new study suggests that routine overnight EEG monitoring is unwarranted for autistic children, as the incidence of Landau-Kleffner syndrome is miniscule. The study found that only a small percentage of patients with autism spectrum disorder exhibit abnormal EEGs during sleep.
Fox Chase Cancer Center researcher Glenn F. Rall is studying whether a link exists between the measles vaccine and the development of autism. He believes that maternal exposure history to measles may afford protection to offspring, but more research is needed.
Studies reveal connections between the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 and autism, as well as a potential link between the glutamate receptor 6 (GluR6) gene and the syndrome. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the genetic underpinnings of autism.
The NIH has awarded a $6 million grant to researchers at UCLA to expand the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) gene bank and gather more information on autism. The study aims to identify genetic vulnerabilities in individuals with autism, which may lead to new treatments and therapies.
Researchers discovered that autistic individuals have smaller minicolumns but more of them, leading to excessive communication and stimulation. This pathology may hold the key to understanding autism and other conditions like schizophrenia.
A study by scientists at the Medical College of Georgia and others found that autistic patients have significantly smaller minicolumns, a basic organizational unit of brain cells, but more of them than controls. This may be consistent with an existing theory that autistic individuals suffer from overarousal and abnormal behaviors.
Research found that autistic preschoolers have 10% larger brains than normally developing children, which may contribute to their difficulty in recognizing emotions from facial expressions. The study also suggests that early intervention programs can help rewire the brain to process faces and emotions more normally.
A study published in 2001 found that patients with autism who received secretin showed no statistically significant improvements in core symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. The researchers tested porcine secretin and found no improvement in secondary measures of autism either.
Researchers studied brain lesions in children with tuberous sclerosis complex and found autism results from complex brain events, not single source. Biochemical abnormalities in outer layer of the brain impacted communication skills, while subcortical changes led to stereotypical behaviors.
The NIH has awarded $3.9 million in new grants to support innovative treatments for autism and establish a nationwide network of major research centers. The grants will focus on aspects such as speech therapy, imitation skills, and biological effects of medications.
A Johns Hopkins Children's Center study failed to link autistic children's sensory fixation to brain damage, contradicting long-held theories. The study found that the cerebellum's balance regulation function operates normally in high-functioning autistic children.
A study by researchers at NIH has identified the HOXA1 gene as a potential contributor to autism in a large number of cases. The gene plays a crucial role in early brain development, and variants of the gene were found to be present in nearly 40% of individuals with autism.
The American Academy of Neurology recommends routine developmental screening for all children from infancy through school age, focusing on early detection of autism. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of genetic or metabolic testing to rule out conditions that may be confused with autism.
Researchers found that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) performed better on a 'false-memory' test due to their impaired ability to use context. This improvement enabled them to recognize words that had been on a word list, while non-autistic subjects struggled with false memories. The study suggests that high-functioning...
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that certain antibiotic agents can improve autism symptoms in some children, particularly those colonized by bacteria producing toxins. The study suggests a possible link between intestinal bacteria and autism, warranting further research for prevention or treatment strategies.