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ASD

·August 7, 2024·5 min read

20% Increased ASD Risk for Kids with Autistic Siblings

New research indicates that 20% of children with an older sibling diagnosed with autism are also likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with this rate increasing to 36% when there are multiple siblings with ASD. The study highlights that gender, race, and maternal education significantly affect the likelihood of autism recurrence in families. It also emphasizes the need for extra developmental monitoring and early intervention for families with autistic children. This research underscores the importance of addressing disparities in healthcare access and support for all families affected by autism.

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Autism Featured Neuroscience

·August 7, 2024·5 min read

BPA Exposure in Pregnancy Linked to Autism Risk

A new study has found higher levels of bisphenol A (BPA), a common plastic chemical, in pregnant mothers who later gave birth to sons with autism. The research suggests that BPA disrupts hormone-controlled fetal brain development, particularly in males, by suppressing the aromatase enzyme.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·July 30, 2024·4 min read

Neurodivergence Linked to Chronic Fatigue in Children

New research highlights a significant link between neurodivergence and chronic fatigue, suggesting that increased inflammation from childhood stress may contribute. The study emphasizes the need for better screening and support for neurodivergent children to reduce chronic fatigue risks. Findings advocate for a comprehensive approach to identify contributing factors and improve quality of life. Enhanced support systems for neurodivergent children could mitigate these risks.

Autism Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·July 29, 2024·5 min read

Umbilical Cord Blood Test Could Predict Autism Risk

A recent study suggests that measuring specific fatty acid metabolites in newborn blood could predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Researchers found that higher levels of certain metabolites were linked to increased ASD symptoms in children at six years old.

Autism Brain Cancer Featured Neuroscience

·July 25, 2024·8 min read

Cancer Drug Shows Promise for Autism Cognitive Function

A new experimental cancer drug could ease cognitive difficulties for those with Rett syndrome, a rare autism-linked disorder, by enhancing brain cell functions. The drug, ADH-503, improves the activity of microglia, which are crucial for maintaining neural networks.

This shows a pregnant woman at a table with healthy foods.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·July 19, 2024·8 min read

Healthy Prenatal Diet Linked to Lower Autism Risk

A new study suggests that a healthy prenatal diet may lower the risk of autism and social communication difficulties in children, according to researchers who analyzed data from two large cohort studies in Norway and the UK.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology Visual Neuroscience

·July 8, 2024·6 min read

Handedness and Vision May Reveal Hidden Social Strengths

A new study shows that human biases in handedness and visual field processing have social and cognitive implications. Researchers found that people with a reversed bias (left hand, right visual) are more likely to have social difficulties and conditions like autism or ADHD. The study reveals that aligning biases may have social benefits, much like in animals. These findings could lead to early screening and interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·June 26, 2024·4 min read

Key Brain Protein Reveals New Insights for Treating Neurological Disorders

A novel study uncovers how the protein Gephyrin aids in synapse formation, providing new insights into brain connectivity. The findings could help develop treatments for disorders like autism, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 to confirm Gephyrin's role in autonomous synapse development. This breakthrough enhances understanding of synaptic mechanisms and potential therapeutic approaches.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·June 25, 2024·4 min read

CBD and Metformin Show Promise for Autism Disorders

Cannabidiol (CBD) and metformin can alleviate behavioral difficulties in mouse models of Fragile X and Phelan-McDermid syndromes. Both conditions, linked to autism spectrum disorder, saw improvements in speech, social interactions, and repetitive behaviors. This promising study paves the way for potential new treatments with minimal side effects. Ongoing clinical trials aim to confirm these findings in humans.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·June 5, 2024·8 min read

Autism Severity Linked to Fetal Brain Growth Patterns

Brain overgrowth in utero may explain the varying severity of autism in children. Researchers used brain organoids from toddlers to show that larger brain growth correlated with more severe autism symptoms. The findings could lead to prenatal identification and potential therapies for autism.

Autism Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 4, 2024·6 min read

MMR Vaccine Myths Persist Amid Rising Cases

A new survey found that 24% of U.S. adults incorrectly believe the MMR vaccine causes autism, despite CDC evidence to the contrary. This misconception contributes to vaccine hesitancy and rising measles cases. The survey highlights the need for better public education on vaccine safety.

Autism Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·June 4, 2024·4 min read

Genes Link Sleep Patterns to Autism and Bipolar Disorder

Researchers found genetic associations between sleep patterns and neuropsychiatric conditions like autism, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Polygenic risk score analysis revealed that autism and schizophrenia link to evening chronotype, while ADHD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder link to insomnia. These insights may lead to new therapies for sleep disturbances in these patients.