Scientists initially embraced the notion that autistic people have difficulty with ‘theory of mind’ — and some went so far as to assert that it explained the condition’s core traits. Many came to view it as passé, but aspects of the original idea are enjoying a renaissance.

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Clues that problems with mitochondria contribute to autism have been accumulating for decades. In the past five years, a mutant mouse and a flurry of findings have energized the field.

Researchers are increasingly turning to simple animals to learn about autism biology and find leads for new drugs.

Disparities in state services for autism are driving families to relocate. But not everyone can afford to move, and others find that their new home also has faults.

Researchers can roughly project what autistic children’s lives will look like years down the road. But how good is their crystal ball — and what are its benefits?

Autism comprises a set of difficulties, but growing evidence suggests that certain abilities also define the condition.

Researchers are studying how the intense passions of autistic people shape the brain, improve well-being and enhance learning.

Researchers are just beginning to learn what happens in the brains of autistic children during adolescence to explain their unique social, cognitive and emotional challenges.

Five collaborations involving autistic scientists and experts are advancing autism research, from lending support for theories of the condition to shoring up trials of new treatments.