High-risk genes for schizophrenia discovered
Study identifies 104 high-risk genes for schizophrenia. One gene considered high-risk is also suspected in the development of autism.... Read More...
ASD
Behavioral disorders in kids with autism linked to reduced brain connectivity
Reduced connectivity between the amygdala and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex has been identified in children on the autism spectrum who exhibit disruptive behaviors, compared to those on the spectrum who do not. Findings suggest this distinct brain network could be independent of core autism symptoms.... Read More...
Autism rate rises 43 percent in New Jersey
The prevalence of 4-year-old children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in New Jersey increased by 43% within a four-year span. Researchers determine the prevalence rate of ASD is one in 35, according to a new report from the CDC and Rutgers University. ... Read More...
‘Mindreading’ neurons simulate decisions of social partners
Neurons in the amygdala derive object values based on observations and use the values to simulate a social partner's decision making.... Read More...
Protein pileup affects social behaviors through altered brain signaling
Study implicates disrupted autophagy and protein aggregation in the pathogenesis of autism schizophrenia and social behavior deficits in other disorders.... Read More...
Autism symptoms reduced nearly 50% two years after fecal transplant
Arizona State University researchers claim microbiota transfer therapy reduces symptoms associated with autism and gastrointestinal problems for two years post-treatment. The study suggests MTT may be a promising option for helping to treat children with ASD who also have GI problems. The researchers stress further research, including double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trials with a larger cohort be carried out. ... Read More...
Possible link discovered between autism and formation of inhibitory synapses
Study finds a possible link between the formation of inhibitory synapses and autism.... Read More...
Virtual reality could be used to treat autism, schizophrenia and Parkinson’s
Virtual reality can help recalibrate time perception and sensorimotor actions. Researchers believe the technology could help in the treatment of ASD, Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.... Read More...
Inflammation inhibitor blocks neurodevelopmental disorders in mouse model
Increased levels of epoxide hydrolase in the prefrontal cortex were found in the brains of young mice whose mothers had suffered infection during pregnancy. Inhibiting epoxide hydrolase reverses cognitive and social deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ASD.... Read More...
Children Have Elevated Risk for Mental Health Issues if Mother Treated for Infection During Pregnancy
Risks for autism and depression are higher if one’s mother was in a hospital with an infection during pregnancy according to a new study.... Read More...
First Common Risk Genes for Autism Discovered
Researchers have identified the first common genetic risk variants for ASD. The study, which also reveals specific genetics differences in clinical subgroups of autism, may help in providing more precise diagnoses for those on the autism spectrum.... Read More...
Brain Response to Mom’s Voice Differs in Kids with Autism
In children with autism, the sound of their mom's voice creates a weaker brain response than in their peers not on the autism spectrum, a new study reports.... Read More...