In autism research, as in other fields, small sample sizes can lead to false findings. The size of the sample needed for statistical significance depends on the type of study.

Genetic variants across the genome contribute to about 8 percent of the risk for certain developmental conditions — much more than previously thought.

Variants that control gene expression are often involved in whether a mutation ends up being harmful, and how harmful it is.

Software to identify genetic variants, along with a new synthetic human genome, could help scientists discover mutations associated with conditions such as autism.

An algorithm combs through genetic data to identify variants involved in autism and four other brain conditions.