AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·August 22, 2024·4 min readEarly Brain Changes May Trigger AutismResearchers have uncovered critical insights into how autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may develop at early stages of brain formation. Using mouse models, the team discovered that environmental factors causing autism-like symptoms are linked to early changes in neurotransmitter activity in the brain. Specifically, they observed that a temporary switch from the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA to the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate in neonatal mice could lead to the development of ASD-like behaviors, such as repetitive actions and reduced social interaction, later in life.Read More
AutismFeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·August 21, 2024·7 min readBrain Overgrowth Linked to Autism Symptom SeverityResearchers have identified a link between brain overgrowth and the severity of social and communication symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By analyzing MRI scans and conducting experiments with brain organoids, the study found that children with the most severe ASD symptoms had significantly larger brains. This enlargement is associated with altered activity of the enzyme Ndel1, which plays a crucial role in neuron development. The findings open new avenues for understanding ASD and its varying symptom severity.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·August 19, 2024·5 min readAI Model Predicts Autism in Toddlers with 80% AccuracyA new machine learning model, AutMedAI, can predict autism in children under two with nearly 80% accuracy, offering a promising tool for early detection and intervention. The model analyzes 28 parameters available before 24 months, such as age of first smile and eating difficulties, to identify children likely to have autism. Early diagnosis is crucial for optimal development, and further validation of the model is underway.Read More
AutismFeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·August 7, 2024·5 min read20% Increased ASD Risk for Kids with Autistic SiblingsNew 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.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·August 7, 2024·5 min readBPA Exposure in Pregnancy Linked to Autism RiskA 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.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·July 30, 2024·4 min readNeurodivergence Linked to Chronic Fatigue in ChildrenNew 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.Read More
AutismFeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·July 29, 2024·5 min readUmbilical Cord Blood Test Could Predict Autism RiskA 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.Read More
AutismBrain CancerFeaturedNeuroscience·July 25, 2024·8 min readCancer Drug Shows Promise for Autism Cognitive FunctionA 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.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·July 19, 2024·8 min readHealthy Prenatal Diet Linked to Lower Autism RiskA 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.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·June 25, 2024·4 min readCBD and Metformin Show Promise for Autism DisordersCannabidiol (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.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·June 5, 2024·8 min readAutism Severity Linked to Fetal Brain Growth PatternsBrain 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.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·June 4, 2024·6 min readMMR Vaccine Myths Persist Amid Rising CasesA 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.Read More