Worms and zebrafish missing both copies of the gene CHD7 have disrupted cellular signaling, a dearth of inhibitory neurons and behavior changes — all of which are reversed by the stimulant drug ephedrine.

A glowing protein tracks serotonin levels and location in the brains of living mice and could yield clues to the neurotransmitter’s role in autism.

A class of medications used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder seems to ease compulsive behaviors in adults with autism. Why can’t we tell if these medications work similarly in children with the condition?

The branch of the nervous system that regulates subconscious bodily processes such as breathing and digestion may play a key role in autism.

The levels of four chemicals in the brain may distinguish autism and vary with its severity, according to a new study.

A drug that mimics the hormone vasopressin improves social skills in autistic people — but so does one that blocks vasopressin’s effects. How can seemingly opposing manipulations produce similar results?

In autism, a person’s brain may not form accurate predictions of imminent experiences, or even if it does, sensory input may override those predictions.

Serotonin, the brain chemical best known for its link to depression, may also be involved in autism.

Case reports suggest electroconvulsive therapy is effective for treating catatonia in people with autism.

Targeting a fluorescent protein to the cell bodies of neurons enables researchers to clearly see which neurons fire when.