Articles tagged with Developmental Disorders
The autism spectrum has become increasingly broad, leading to concerns about misdiagnosis and the loss of its meaning. Dame Uta Frith argues that a rethink is needed to examine whether the autism spectrum has become too broad, risking misunderstanding people's needs and misdirecting care.
Researchers utilized a large healthcare system biobank to identify individuals carrying rare copy number variants linked to neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found significant value in direct phenotyping, providing practical benchmarks for implementing recall-by-genotype studies in diverse healthcare systems.
A Japanese cohort study found that better maternal cardiovascular health during pregnancy is associated with lower risks of offspring developmental delay at age 4. The study suggests a potential protective effect of optimal maternal cardiovascular health on child development.
Researchers at Texas Children's Hospital identified a set of dysfunctional genes and specific cell types that are vulnerable to genetic changes in female mice modeling Rett syndrome before symptoms appear. They found that even healthy cells with normal MECP2 gene had changes in gene activity due to neighboring defective cells.
A new framework, criticome, integrates experience until age 25, reframing autism, schizophrenia, depression, and trauma as developmental disorders. The study suggests that screen-saturated childhoods may produce adult dysfunction, highlighting the importance of early experience in brain development.
A study of children aged 8-12 found that only 40% of their relationships are positive or ambivalent, with half still including perpetrators in their networks. Children struggle to discuss traumatic experiences with parents and friends due to fear or lack of trust.
Researchers found that building everyday behavioral skills in early childhood can shield young brains from the detrimental effects of prenatal stress. Children with stronger adaptive skills showed comparable brain activation patterns to their unexposed peers, suggesting these skills may protect brain function.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics has found that preschool children born with heart defects are at a greater risk of developing behavioral problems, including ADHD and peer relationship issues. The study suggests that a cognitively stimulating home environment may help reduce this risk.
Researchers created an atlas detailing the development of brain blood vessels from birth to adulthood, revealing three distinct stages. The Lambada atlas provides a high-resolution map of vascular development, enabling researchers to explore the developing brain in 3D.
Research reveals associations between antiseizure drugs and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, with valproate and zonisamide linked to increased risks. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring of new antiseizure drugs and further evaluation of their safety during pregnancy.
Researchers will investigate the role of interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) in brain function, behavior, and psychiatric health. The study aims to define the physiological role of IL-1R1 in the brain and explore its influence on social behaviors.
A study from the University of East Anglia found that Covid lockdowns disrupted children's ability to self-regulate, leading to slower growth in executive functions. Reception-age children, who normally learn to socialize and navigate classroom routines, showed significant setbacks in cognitive flexibility and self-regulation skills.
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.
Researchers created a simplified, scalable human cell model to study coordinated brain rhythms. They found that inhibitory signaling mediated by GABA helped promote sleep and prevent seizures, while potassium channel perturbations influenced rhythmic organization in distinct ways.
Researchers have developed a new device that can record and stimulate activity across the entire surface of miniature, lab-grown human brain-like tissues, enabling whole-network mapping and manipulation. This breakthrough could improve our understanding of brain development, function, and disease.
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.
A new study by Boston University found that 74% of neurodivergent youth in the USA experience one or more forms of psychological, cyber, physical or sexual dating abuse. The research highlights the need for schools and communities to address this issue with targeted resources.
Virginia Tech researchers identified a malformed area in the corpus callosum and pattern of bad connections that may help doctors diagnose Leigh syndrome earlier. The study found that developmental defects can be seen before symptoms appear, suggesting potential for earlier intervention.
Boston Children's Hospital will provide clinical research coordination for the IMPACT Network, a multisite clinical trial infrastructure enabling rapid and effective therapeutic development for autism. The grant, from ARIA, will support the development of study design protocols, recruitment strategies, and efficient workflows.
A new study by researchers in Canada and Italy suggests that young adolescents who participated in organized sports between ages 6 and 10 are less likely to defy authority figures. The study found that structured extracurricular activities can promote behavioral resilience and reduce the burden of disruptive behavior disorders.
Researchers identified a molecular mechanism linking early-life environments with memory by activating AP-1, which regulates genes involved in neuronal plasticity and learning. Early-life experiences produce long-lasting modulation of AP-1 activity, boosting gene networks that strengthen neuronal connections.
Researchers have discovered that Batten disease progression varies by sex and age, with male mice showing early auditory problems that improve with age, while female mice experience persistent difficulties. The study provides a new model for tracking brain function over time and testing treatments for this devastating disease.
A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found no association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and ADHD. The study offers reassurance for pregnant women, public health agenci...
A new study reveals how prenatal alcohol exposure impairs key brain cells and circuits, leading to cognitive inflexibility and increased risk of compulsive alcohol use. Researchers identified a specific brain cell affected by early alcohol exposure, providing a clear target for developing more effective treatments of FASD.
A study found that child welfare system involvement in Pennsylvania increased the likelihood of developmental delay diagnoses for infants and toddlers, particularly those in foster care. Early intervention services were also more accessible to these children.
Researchers have identified four distinct profiles of Nonverbal Learning Disability, each with different strengths and challenges. The study suggests that current diagnostic criteria may be too broad, highlighting the importance of individualized approaches to care for children with NVLD.
A $8.6 million NIH grant has renewed funding for the Rare Disease Clinical Research Network project, focusing on cognition, communication, and neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals with rare diseases. The initiative aims to develop biomarkers, support pilot projects, and foster skilled investigators.
A systematic review of over 9 million pregnancies found that gestational diabetes is associated with cognitive decline in mothers and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes have a 36% higher risk of ADHD and a 56% higher risk of autism spectrum disorders compare...
The study reveals that enzymes KDM1A and KDM5C collaborate to prevent neurons from activating inappropriate genes, ensuring their proper function. This discovery opens new avenues to understand the origin of neurological disorders associated with intellectual disability.
A new study suggests that the high prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in humans is linked to the rapid evolution of specific brain cell types and genes. The research found that human brains contain a unique array of neuronal cell types that evolved rapidly compared to other primates.
A study by Professor Chunxiu Gong's team identified the clinical presentation of Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and genetic alterations in Chinese pediatric patients. The researchers found that 12 patients presented with classic CdLS, while others showed global developmental delays and growth retardation.
A new UK review reveals that 89-97% of autistic adults aged 40+ are undiagnosed, leading to a higher risk of age-related health problems. Middle-aged and older autistic adults face significant challenges in employment, relationships, and wellbeing.
Researchers found that preterm infants scored lower on both language comprehension and expression compared to full-term peers. The earlier the birth and lower the birth weight, the weaker the child's performance in language comprehension.
A Rutgers University study found that exposure to green spaces during critical periods of early childhood development is associated with a reduced risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD and autism spectrum disorder. Higher levels of green space exposure were linked to lower risks across different exposure windows.
Researchers assess ligament maturation and movement impact on scoliotic conditions, providing new insights into the structural hallmarks of embryonic spinal ligaments. The study aims to identify potential connections between embryonic movement and spinal deformities in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Researchers found that co-exposure to bisphenol A and retinoic acid disrupts neurodevelopmental gene signaling, leading to brain abnormalities. The study suggests a potential link between chemical exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
ADHD researcher Barbara Franke's work transforms understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative molecular approaches. Her research combines cutting-edge bioinformatics with experimental models to identify genes and pathways underlying behavioral differences.
Researchers at KAIST have developed an AI-powered app called AACessTalk that enables meaningful communication between children with autism and their parents. The app uses personalized vocabulary cards and customized prompts to foster mutual engagement in dialogue.
The MyoStep project represents a significant advancement in pediatric mobility aids for children with cerebral palsy, addressing motor impairments that restrict participation in physical activities. The soft power suit provides a lightweight, discreet solution tailored to fit seamlessly into the lives of children and their families.
Researchers developed a coupled system model for liquid-fueled molten salt reactors, incorporating xenon and void transport. The validated model reveals how initiating events affect reactor safety and offers insights for future reactor designs.
Juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JORRP) is a rare disease causing chronic hoarseness and breathing difficulties in children. New clinical guidelines provide actionable recommendations for early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment to improve long-term outcomes.
Dr. Rhonda Winegar investigates the effectiveness of music therapy in supporting neurological care, including its ability to reduce anxiety and depression in Alzheimer's patients. Her research also highlights its potential to regulate heart rate and blood pressure, as well as improve motor function in individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Young adults face anxiety due to conflicting pressures to accelerate their maturation and assume adult responsibilities earlier, while also encountering limitations that slow or limit their ability to take on these roles. This double bind creates a difficult navigation process for youths, with many things often outside of their control.
Researchers at the University of Missouri's Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment have found that behavior at 9 months old can indicate a 1-year-old's likelihood of being at risk for autism. Parent surveys reported fussiness, irritability, and difficulty calming down were associated with early signs of autism by 12 months.
Scientists at UNIGE identified a defect in communication pathway between two brain structures, leading to rapid redirection of attention deficits. The discovery paves the way for better prediction of development and more targeted interventions.
A comprehensive natural history study of SCN8A-related disorders has been completed, revealing a range of seizure types and neurodevelopmental features. The findings identify potential targets for future clinical trials, including the use of sodium channel blockers to manage epilepsy.
Severe RSV disease among children is more likely those aged 2 or older with pulmonary or neurologic conditions. Younger children under 6 months and prematurity are high-risk factors for severe RSV in younger kids.
Neuro-immunologist Stephen Hauser has won the 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for his role in identifying the immune system's primary driver of damage to nerve cells in multiple sclerosis. His B-cell theory has led to the development of therapies that have transformed treatment, reducing relapses and improving prognosis.
A new study has revealed that Beagle dogs carrying mutations in the Shank3 gene exhibit face processing abnormalities, similar to those observed in human ASD patients. The research provides direct experimental evidence that mutations in Shank3 lead to ASD-like deficits in face processing, contributing to social impairments.
A new study reveals that tomato plants adapt to heat stress by delaying shoot apical stem cell development, allowing for stable yields. This redox-controlled mechanism enables the plant to temporarily suspend its maturation program during adverse conditions, resulting in significant yield losses prevention.
A research group has uncovered a potential mechanism linking maternal inflammation to delayed neurodevelopment in infants. CD11c-positive microglia, crucial for myelination, play a key role in this process.
A groundbreaking study reveals that autistic children exhibit social attention patterns similar to their typically developing peers during play, with a primary focus on toys rather than faces. This challenges the longstanding assumption that reduced eye contact is a definitive marker of autism.
A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus identified significant mitochondrial dysfunction in lymphoblast cell lines from children with Dravet syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy. The findings suggest that mitochondrial defects play a role in the metabolic dysfunction observed in Dravet syndrome.
Exclusive or longer breastfeeding duration is associated with lower risk of developmental delays and social/neurodevelopmental conditions. This finding may inform parents, caregivers, and public health initiatives promoting early child development.
The review article examines the relationship between anemia and retinopathy of prematurity, focusing on iron deficiency and underlying molecular mechanisms. Anemia reduces oxygen delivery to the retina, exacerbating hypoxia and promoting pathological neovascularization.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified new variants of CDKL2 and CDKL1 genes associated with developmental disorders, including epilepsy. The study proposes a mechanism by which defective variants cause neurological symptoms in affected individuals.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with negative developmental trends in kindergarteners, persisting beyond the pandemic's onset. The study highlights troubling trends in kindergarteners' development before and during the pandemic, underscoring the need for further research.
A new study in rodents reveals that oxytocin can delay an embryo's development for days to weeks after conception, a phenomenon known as diapause. This finding may offer new insights into pregnancy and fertility issues faced by humans.
A POSTECH research team developed a photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) system that non-invasively monitors cerebrovascular changes in small animals with early stages of an ischemic stroke. The technology also measures oxygen saturation in blood vessels, allowing precise tracking of vascular recovery after stroke.
Researchers found that brain connectivity related to cognitive control predicted substance use initiation, while cognitive control behavior did not. Stronger connectivity between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with delayed substance use onset.