Spectrum: Autism Research News

Research roundup

• Mutations in the gene TCF4, which cause a form of autism called Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, may drive changes in brain interneurons. Developmental Neuroscience
• Defining individualized outcomes for adults with autism, who have a range of abilities and challenges, could aid intervention studies. Autism
• Pediatricians can help educate autistic teenagers about their own sexuality, including their changing bodies, feelings and behaviors. Pediatrics
• Melatonin may shorten the time it takes autistic children to fall asleep, according to a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
• When conversing with a stranger, people on the spectrum may use a suite of camouflaging behaviors. Autism
• Autistic people appear to show less activation than non-autistic people in the striatum, a brain area that responds to reward. NeuroImage: Clinical
• Mice lacking the autism-linked gene CNTNAP2 appear to be deficient in time perception. Behavioural Processes
• Many people on the spectrum dislike talking by phone, preferring email or other written communication. Autism

Science and society

• A residential facility designed for young adults on the spectrum who are transitioning to college or internships has opened in Worcester, Massachusetts. Worcester Magazine
• Researchers are wrestling with how to relaunch projects they put on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic. STAT
• A proposed California law that would close current loopholes in covering behavioral health treatments for children with autism has earned approval of the state’s Senate Health Committee. Sierra Sun Times

Cite this article: https://doi.org/10.53053/KVDU1278