JULY 1 - An Autism Gene?
Researchers have identified dozens of genes that increase the risk of an individual getting autism, according to a new study published in the journal Nature. Genetic data were collected from 1,000 people with autism spectrum disorder and 1,300 from individuals without ASD. Researchers found those with autism had more genetic insertions and deletions–called copy number variants or CNV–in their genome than those who did not have the disorder. Some of the variants seemed to be inherited while others appeared to be new, meaning they were found only in the affected children, but not their parents.
"Identifying these copy number variants in young children at risk of autism will help us to implement earlier treatment," said Louise Gallagher, Trinity College, Dublin and a study co-author. "Currently autism diagnosis is entirely behavioral and lengthy. Some children are not getting a diagnosis until as late as 5 years old. With earlier detection these children could get earlier intervention which may limit the severity of the condition particularly their co-morbid difficulties." Researchers believe these discoveries could lead to the development of new therapies.
"Piece by piece, we are discovering genetic mutations that can cause autism. These findings will provide answers for families about what contributed to their autism," said Andy Shih Ph.D, Autism Speaks vice president for scientific affairs. Autism Speaks, the country's largest autism advocacy organization, invested $9 million in the study.
Comments