Study hints at microbiome differences in children with autism
Children with autism may have a subtly different set of bacteria in their gut than their non-autistic siblings do.
Children with autism may have a subtly different set of bacteria in their gut than their non-autistic siblings do.
Mutations in a top autism gene called SYNGAP1 slow the rate at which zebrafish digest food and pass waste, and may also disrupt gut function in people.
Jack Gilbert is teasing out how microbes transform their home environments, from the comfort of his own.
This year’s hot topics in autism research center around brain organoids, heart rate, the gut microbiome, treatment timing and early detection.
Many scientists have pointed out possible errors of analysis and interpretation in a high-profile study that suggested microbes can ease autism-like behaviors in mice.
Scientists are playing catch-up as microbiome-based treatments for autism proliferate.
A saliva test that helps clinicians diagnose autism is expected to be available in the next few weeks. But some experts are skeptical of the test’s accuracy and value.