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Autism spectrum disorders news

Genetics

Knocking out one key gene leads to autistic traits, mouse study shows

More than 70 genes have been linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a developmental condition in which differences in the brain lead to a host of altered behaviors, including issues with language, social communication, ...

Autism spectrum disorders

National data indicate that autistic birthing people are at increased risk for postpartum anxiety and depression

American women have the highest rate of maternal deaths among high-income countries, with outcomes worse for minoritized groups.

Autism spectrum disorders

Sibling secrets: Autism's impact on family ties

A recent study provides fresh insights into the dynamics of sibling relationships in families with a child diagnosed with autism. This research explores the unique perspectives of both mothers and siblings, unveiling fascinating ...

Neuroscience

Cancer drug could ease cognitive function for some with autism

An experimental cancer drug could make thinking easier for individuals with Rett syndrome, a rare disorder linked to autism, according to new research from the University of California San Diego—a discovery that could lead ...

Neuroscience

Researchers discover a new face-detecting brain circuit

Scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have uncovered a brain circuit in primates that rapidly detects faces. The findings help not only explain how primates sense and recognize faces, but could also have implications ...

Genetics

Autism-linked gene found to shape nerve connections

A gene linked to autism spectrum disorders plays a critical role in early brain development and may shape the formation of both normal and atypical nerve connections in the brain, according to a new study by Weill Cornell ...

Autism spectrum disorders

Discussing autism diagnosis with kids

With better awareness and acceptance, approximately one out of every 50 children is receiving an autism diagnosis. More and more families are deciding when to share this information with their child. Some parents worry that ...

Autism spectrum disorders

Dodginess detection and crime in adults with autism

Difficulty in recognizing dodgy behavior or not being able to predict someone has bad intentions has often been argued as the reason people with autism can become unwittingly ensnared in crimes.

Medical research

Neonicotinoid causes ASD-like symptoms in chicks, finds study

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a group of disabilities due to atypical brain development. Individuals with ASD have difficulties in social communication and interaction. Diverse causes of ASD are hypothesized, but ...

Autism spectrum disorders

Elon Musk: How being autistic may make him think differently

The business magnate and new owner of Twitter Elon Musk revealed a while ago that he is autistic. Musk, the wealthiest person in the world, is autistic. Musk, a fellow of the prestigious Royal Society and Time's 2021 Person ...

Neuroscience

The hunt for disrupted brain signals behind autism

Part of understanding the underlying causes of autism spectrum disorder relies on figuring out which cells' signaling patterns in the brain are disrupted, and when during nervous system development the disruption occurs.

Autism spectrum disorders

Why eye contact is rare among people with autism

A hallmark of autism spectrum disorder, ASD, is the reluctance to make eye contact with others in natural conditions. Although eye contact is a critically important part of everyday interactions, scientists have been limited ...

Neuroscience

Genetic variation and the diverse range of behaviors in autism

Research in humans and animal models points to potential biological and genetic mechanisms contributing to the diversity of behaviors seen in autism. The findings were presented at Neuroscience 2022, the annual meeting of ...