Latest

Autism

Research articles covering work related to austism spectrum disorders are provided below.

·October 24, 2024·6 min read

In-Utero Gene Editing Could Halt Neurodevelopmental Disorders

A new study has developed a breakthrough biomedical tool that can deliver genetic material to edit faulty genes in fetal brain cells. Tested in mice, this technology offers the potential to stop the progression of neurodevelopmental conditions, like Angelman and Rett syndromes, before birth.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 24, 2024·6 min read

Stem Cell Mini-Brains Unlock Insights into Autism

Researchers have created "mini-brains" using stem cells from patients with a rare form of autism, allowing them to study brain development in detail. These organoids revealed how a genetic mutation in MEF2C disrupts the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurons, leading to autism.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 24, 2024·6 min read

Infant Sleep Loss Linked to Brain Development Problems

New research shows that sleep deprivation during early development disrupts brain function, impacting neuron growth and synapse formation. The study found that young mice lacking sleep did not experience the “sleep rebound” seen in adults, leading to lasting deficits in social behavior and memory.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 22, 2024·3 min read

Cerebellum Plays Key Role in Social and Cognitive Abilities

The cerebellum, traditionally linked to motor functions, also plays a vital role in social and cognitive abilities, according to new research. Abnormalities in this brain region not only impair movement but are linked to emotional and behavioral issues, particularly in autism.

Autism Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·October 18, 2024·4 min read

Autism Risk in Males Linked to Y Chromosome

New research suggests that the Y chromosome may be responsible for the higher prevalence of autism in males, shifting focus away from protective factors on the X chromosome. Analyzing genetic data, researchers found that individuals with an additional Y chromosome were twice as likely to have an autism diagnosis, while an extra X chromosome had no effect on autism risk.

This shows a pregnant woman and a brain.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 17, 2024·4 min read

Folic Acid Reduces Lead’s Impact on Autism Risk

A study has shown that folic acid supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the link between maternal blood lead levels and autistic-like behaviors in children. By examining data from pregnant women and their toddlers, researchers found stronger associations between lead exposure and autism traits in cases of low folic acid intake.

This shows a brain puzzle with missing pieces.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 14, 2024·3 min read

Imaging Links Fewer Brain Connections to Autism Social Challenges

A recent study used PET imaging to examine synaptic connections in autistic and non-autistic adults, marking the first time this technology was applied to autism research. Findings show autistic adults have fewer synapses, or connections between brain cells, which closely relates to social and communicative differences in autism.

Autism Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·October 14, 2024·5 min read

Human-Specific Genes Reveal Link Between Brain Growth and Autism

Researchers have found a link between two human-specific genes and the gene SYNGAP1, a factor in intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. These genes, SRGAP2B and SRGAP2C, slow down synapse development, a hallmark of prolonged brain growth thought to enhance learning in humans. By turning off these genes in human neurons, scientists observed accelerated brain connectivity development, mimicking changes seen in certain neurodevelopmental conditions.

This shows a child looking at brain scans.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 9, 2024·5 min read

Neuron Density Differences in Autistic Children’s Brains

New research reveals that children with autism have varying neuron densities in certain brain regions compared to their peers. Using advanced imaging from the ABCD study, scientists observed lower neuron density in regions associated with memory and problem-solving, while regions like the amygdala showed higher neuron density.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 1, 2024·3 min read

Brain Activity Syncs Differently in Autism and Neurotypical Interactions

A new study shows that brain synchronization between a neurotypical person and someone with autism is weaker compared to two neurotypical individuals interacting. Using EEG hyperscanning, researchers observed reduced inter-brain synchrony during hand movement imitation between mixed pairs, with autistic individuals more likely to follow than lead.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·September 23, 2024·5 min read

No Increased Autism Risk in Pandemic-Born Children

A new study found that children born during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, including those exposed to the virus in utero, were no more likely to screen positive for autism than pre-pandemic children. Researchers used a neurodevelopmental screening questionnaire for children aged 16-30 months and saw no differences in autism risk between these groups.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·August 28, 2024·5 min read

New Imaging Technique Identifies Autism Markers with 95% Accuracy

Researchers have developed a system that detects genetic markers of autism in brain images with 89-95% accuracy, potentially enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment. This method, which identifies brain structure patterns linked to autism-related genetic variations, offers a personalized approach to autism care. The technique, called transport-based morphometry, could transform the understanding and treatment of autism by focusing on genetic markers rather than behavioral cues.