A study found a sharp increase in leucovorin dispensing to children aged 0-17 after a press conference touting its autism benefits, despite limited evidence supporting the claim. The spike in prescriptions rose 700% between 2024 and 2025, with the largest increases seen among children ages 6-11 and in the southern US.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 12, 2026
A new study by Oregon State University found that a cat-training program for children with developmental disabilities fosters healthy child behaviors and strengthens relationships between children and their family cats. The program also improves cats' social behavior, making them more confident and socially active.
SourceOregon State University·JournalAnimals·DateAug 4, 2026
A Swansea University PhD researcher has received funding to attend the Psychonomic Society Annual Meeting to share her findings on how neurodivergent people process visual symbols. Her research reveals that neurodivergent participants respond more quickly and accurately to these symbols, highlighting important differences in cognitive ...
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Scientists have discovered a new approach to treating genetic brain disorders by redirecting brain development. The therapy helps at-risk neurons grow and connect more normally, strengthening connections among existing neurons and restoring cognitive function.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2026
Researchers found that a single dose of rapamycin rapidly improved symptoms in adult mice with autism-like changes, reversing abnormal brain signaling and behavior within two hours. The study suggests the adult brain's functional circuitry, not just its physical structure, as a target for future treatment approaches.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 23, 2026
Research suggests that sports-based interventions may improve motor skills in children with autism spectrum disorder. Martial arts and aquatic training demonstrated the most consistent benefits, particularly in balance and total motor skills. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateJul 22, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A review article highlights the potential risks of certain medications during pregnancy on brain development, including autism and neurodevelopmental disorders. Altering fundamental brain processes can have detrimental effects, emphasizing the need for reduced use or alternative treatments.
SourceUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 20, 2026
Researchers found subtle patterns in brain activity while children listened to speech linked to verbal communication abilities in autistic youths. Altered brain signals suggested the brain may process speech less efficiently, with noisier signals associated with lower scores on everyday verbal communication.
A new study finds that fully virtual applied behavior analysis (ABA) services delivered by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) are a feasible alternative to traditional in-person therapy. Children with autism who received focused ABA services showed improvements in adaptive skills, behavior outcomes, and family quality of life.
SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJMIR Pediatrics and Parenting·TypeObservational study·DateJul 8, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A recent study by Virginia Tech researchers found that physically active children with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome experienced less fatigue. Parents reported similar results, highlighting the importance of physical activity for long-term health outcomes in children with developmental disabilities.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBehavioral Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateJul 7, 2026
A decade of canine research suggests that genetically engineered Beagles could be a complementary and welfare-conscious model for autism treatments. The study gathers findings on the behavior and traits of these dogs in relation to human autism, including signs of treatment with oxytocin and psychedelics.
Researchers developed a gene therapy that restored normal brain activity and improved behavior in mice with Fragile X syndrome by replacing the missing FMRP protein. The treatment administered during early development showed significant improvements in cognitive flexibility, social interactions, and probabilistic reversal learning.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2026
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers discovered that common molecular effects occur across different genetic mutations in autism, particularly during early brain development. These findings could lead to stage-specific and sex-specific therapeutic approaches for early intervention.
SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature·DateJun 17, 2026
A team studied 173 multiplex families from the Azores and Madeira islands, finding a single broken gene that travels through three generations and causes different illnesses. The CHD2 mutation is rare and affects schizophrenia, mood disorder, and autism in different family members.
SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2026
Baylor College of Medicine researcher Dr. Jimmy Holder and his team will join the ARIA IMPACT Network to accelerate clinical trial readiness and implementation for promising therapies on autism. The collaboration aims to better understand how autism develops and changes over time in children with profound autism.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Boston Children's Hospital has been awarded up to $17.25 million to participate in the Innovative Medicine and Precision Approaches to Clinical Trials (IMPACT) Network, an international effort aimed at speeding up the development of urgently needed treatments for children with profound autism and related neurodevelopmental disabilities...
Researchers identified a promising new strategy for reversing autism-related brain deficits by targeting a specific glycine transporter. The therapy restored NMDA receptor function in mouse models and human brain organoids, improving behavioral abnormalities such as social interaction and repetitive behaviors.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2026
Researchers will investigate the link between SYNGAP1 protein deficiency, cilia dysfunction, and clinical symptoms of SYNGAP1-Related Disorders. The study aims to inform rational drug design and provide new insights for targeted therapies.
The CURE SYNGAP1 COLLECTIVE is a collaborative framework uniting independent SYNGAP1 charities worldwide to accelerate treatments for individuals with SYNGAP1-Related Disorders. The Collective focuses on three primary pillars: research, industry engagement, and patient advocacy.
A research team at Niigata University has identified a copper-HIF1α-BNIP3-mTOR pathway connecting trace elements to glial cell development in autism spectrum disorder. Lower plasma copper levels were associated with higher ASD symptoms and reduced white matter volume, which was linked to social symptoms.
SourceNiigata University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 1, 2026
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
The LEGO Foundation Fellowship will support up to 10 researchers pursuing ambitious work on how children thrive in crisis and conflict settings, neurodivergent children, and AI-enabled learning. The fellowship aims to deepen understanding of what helps children learn, grow, and thrive.
CURE SYNGAP1 invests in remote assessment tools to broaden access to clinical care and trials for patients with SYNGAP1-Related Disorders. The study aims to evaluate the validity of a standardized remote developmental assessment to reduce travel burden.
Researchers identified two reproducible autism subtypes characterized by reduced brain connectivity (hypoconnectivity) or increased connectivity (hyperconnectivity), linked to synaptic pathways and immune-related systems, respectively. The study provides a biological foundation for precision medicine approaches.
SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2026
A new screening tool tests for microbial metabolites in urine to identify children at risk for autism, with 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The test may guide more targeted interventions, including approaches to restore a healthy gut microbiome.
SourceArizona State University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2026
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
Research analyzed over 35.8 million emergency department visits to compare fall-related injury risks among adults with and without intellectual and/or developmental disabilities or cerebral palsy. Adults with these conditions were more likely to visit the emergency department due to falls, especially at younger ages.
SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 26, 2026
The 2025 Impact Report showcases tangible progress made by CURE SYNGAP1, including almost $1.8M in grants and the most successful SYNGAP1 Science Conference ever. The report highlights the organization's focus on Collaboration, Transparency, and Urgency, driving momentum for clinical trials and treatments.
CURE SYNGAP1 partners with RARE-X to accelerate ProMMiS study's Patient-Reported Outcome measure data collection. This investment enables the centralized collection of high-quality PROs, essential for regulatory approval and therapy development.
Researchers developed a viable homozygous CHD8 mouse model, showing that stronger mutations can dramatically alter male–female autism patterns. The study revealed pronounced autism-related abnormalities in both sexes with severe mutations.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2026
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A major new study has found that severe asthma patients are often battling other health conditions, with nearly all suffering from at least one major issue. The study identified three distinct profiles linked to how well asthma is controlled and the treatments needed, offering potential breakthroughs for improving care.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 19, 2026
Researchers have identified a long non-coding RNA gene, PTCHD1-AS, as a contributor to increased likelihood of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in males. The study found that deletions within this gene influence social interaction and repetitive behaviors without affecting cognition.
SourceThe Hospital for Sick Children·JournalNature·DateMay 13, 2026
Researchers developed RegVelo, an AI framework that models cellular dynamics and gene regulation to predict cellular fate decisions. The model traces developmental trajectories and simulates regulatory interactions, providing insights into hidden drivers of development and potential therapeutic targets.
SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell·DateMay 11, 2026
Researchers found that portrayals in media lacked diversity, often focusing on white, socially awkward male characters. Autistic participants felt that such portrayals were exaggerated and simplified, limiting public understanding and self-understanding.
SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalSocieties·TypeObservational study·DateMay 6, 2026
A large population-based study found that children with epilepsy have a significantly higher risk of also having autism spectrum disorder. The study highlighted key differences between children with co-occurring conditions, including intellectual disability and age of diagnosis.
SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateMay 6, 2026
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Dr. Dilek Colak's journey began with a childhood observation of a boy with mental illness, which inspired her to pursue a career in neuroscience. Her current work focuses on understanding autism and schizophrenia through the study of human brain organoids.
SourceGenomic Press·JournalGenomic Psychiatry·TypeNews article·DateMay 5, 2026
Researchers at the UC Davis MIND Institute found that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) alter genes more in females than males, with a key gene called XIST playing a protective role. Folic acid also shows promise in mitigating harmful effects of PCB exposure, particularly in women.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalGenome Biology·DateApr 28, 2026
Researchers are developing a new wearable technology to monitor babies' movements and detect early signs of autism. The study aims to improve early identification and intervention, which is crucial for optimal developmental outcomes in autistic individuals.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateApr 23, 2026
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A large multiethnic study identifies genetic factors associated with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and its progression to osteoarthritis of the hip. Variations in COL11A2, CALN1, and TRPM7 genes were found to be common to both DDH and hip OA.
SourceEditorial Office of West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University·JournalBone Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 21, 2026
A landmark study found a significant association between prenatal prescription of sterol biosynthesis-inhibiting medications and the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. The research identified commonly prescribed medications as potential contributors to neurodevelopmental vulnerability.
SourceUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 20, 2026
Artificial intelligence models provide personalized advice, but may perpetuate negative stereotypes about people with autism. Researchers found that up to 70% of the time, AI discourages those with autism from socializing.
Researchers develop molecular tool called SynTrogo, which enables selective dismantling of synaptic connections in brain circuits. By harnessing astrocytes, the system reduces synapse number while strengthening remaining connections, leading to enhanced long-term potentiation and improved memory.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
A new survey by Autism BrainNet reveals a significant disconnect between Americans' strong support for autism research and their limited understanding of postmortem brain donation. The survey found that 70% of respondents had never heard of brain donation, despite 92% agreeing its importance in advancing research.
The study identified a previously unknown recessive neurodevelopmental disorder caused by changes in the RNU2-2 gene, affecting thousands of individuals in the US. Symptoms vary widely, including developmental delays, limited speech, and seizures, and may be more common than previously thought.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 30, 2026
Researchers developed a video modeling program to enhance romantic relationship skills in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that participants significantly improved their decision-making skills across four relationship domains, averaging 76% accuracy after the intervention. The findings high...
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalSexuality and Disability·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2026
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
CURE SYNGAP1 accelerates treatment development for SYNGAP1-Related Disorders through rigorous research and family-led leadership. The organization has funded over $8 million in grants and identified over 1,707 patients to date.
A systematic review of social media platforms reveals that TikTok contains a substantial proportion of misleading information about mental health and neurodivergence, with higher rates of misinformation than other platforms. The study emphasizes the importance of credible sources and evidence-based content to combat spreading false ide...
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Social Media Research·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 19, 2026
A new study found that augmented reality job coaching significantly improves job performance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The AR-based application delivered real-time guidance, enabling participants to complete complex tasks with minimal external support. This innovative approach has the potential t...
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFocus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Online spaces provide bodily comfort, relief, and inclusion for some autistic adults, allowing them to express themselves and connect genuinely without scrutiny. This challenges the assumption that in-person interaction is always more valuable.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAutism in Adulthood·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2026
A new study found that nearly 25% of UK teachers received no training on supporting neurodivergent pupils, with most reporting brief and limited sessions. The researchers highlight a mismatch between the complexity of pupils' needs and the training teachers are currently receiving.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNeurodiversity·DateMar 4, 2026
Researchers from Georgia State University, Marcus Autism Center and Emory University are collaborating to investigate the causes of profound autism in children. The 7,500 child study will explore patterns in development, behavior, brain activity and genetics to find more effective therapies.
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A study analyzing data from 44,000 adults found that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression. The study also highlights significant healthcare treatment and access barriers facing this population.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 20, 2026
This cross-sectional study highlights critical gaps in accessible mental health services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The findings underscore the need for policy reforms to address systemic inequities and provide disability-informed care.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 20, 2026
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that babies with an increased likelihood of autism may struggle to settle into deep, restorative sleep. Those with high sensory sensitivity slept more lightly even in quiet environments.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalSLEEP·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026
Research from Salk Institute scientists shows that DNA's dynamic folding process affects gene regulation and expression, with specific regions unfolding at different rates to regulate cell type-specific functions.
SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2026
Researchers found strongest associations on very smoky days and in areas with cleaner air overall. The study of over 8.6 million births in California suggests that intense wildfire smoke exposure may increase the likelihood of autism in children.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEnvironment International·DateFeb 12, 2026
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
A new study found that warmer nighttime temperatures during pregnancy may be associated with a higher risk of autism diagnosis in children. Exposure to extreme heat during early and late pregnancy increased the risk by 15% and 13%, respectively.
SourceTulane University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateFeb 12, 2026
A new study by Bournemouth University calls for faster autism diagnosis and tailored mental health support to reduce autistic people's suicidal thoughts and attempts. The research identified key priorities, including improving autism diagnostic services, tackling societal inequalities, and providing autism-specific support in crisis.
SourceBournemouth University·JournalAutism in Adulthood·TypeCase study·DateFeb 11, 2026
Researchers studied 434 children for signs of autism or neurodevelopmental problems, finding no link between mRNA vaccine and autism. The study suggests that COVID-19 vaccines are safe to receive during pregnancy to protect maternal and infant health.
SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·JournalPregnancy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2026
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Dr. Paul Donlin-Asp will investigate the molecular functions and regulation of local SYNGAP1 protein synthesis, aiming to advance therapies for SYNGAP1-related Disorders. The project seeks to map mechanisms controlling SYNGAP1 protein production in neurons.
A University of Houston study challenges traditional views on dyslexia, suggesting it stems from an overall brain network vulnerability. The research identified two developmental origins: one related to brain architecture and another to synaptic signaling, which may be uniquely human.
The FENS Forum 2026 will be Europe's largest neuroscience congress, covering areas of basic to translational research. Journalists can register for free and attend symposia and poster sessions.
SourceFederation of European Neuroscience Societies·DateFeb 2, 2026