Most people with the X-linked syndrome have autism traits, and about one-quarter meet diagnostic criteria for the condition.

The new animal line could accelerate the discovery of gene-activating therapies for the autism-linked condition Rett syndrome.

As 2021 comes to a close, Spectrum recaps some of the biggest trends in autism science this year: studies of sex differences, noncoding regions of the genome and points of convergence, as well as efforts to improve screening and participatory research.

Over the course of a career spanning more than three decades, Huda Zoghbi has won almost every major biology and neuroscience research award that exists. More than 20 years since she discovered the gene behind Rett syndrome, she remains laser focused on unlocking the condition’s secrets and finding effective treatments.

Methods that selectively increase levels of the Rett protein make for safer and more effective treatment strategies, some researchers say.

A new study pinpoints the genes and cell types that may underlie the atypical brain structure seen in people with genetic conditions linked to autism.

A gene therapy for Angelman syndrome stands at the forefront of efforts to treat autism-linked conditions that stem from single genes.

A new technique may reveal how mutations on the X chromosome alter various types of cells in the brain.

A new line of female mice may enable researchers to test gene-based therapies for Rett syndrome.

A modified version of the genetic engineering tool CRISPR may restore expression of the gene mutated in fragile X syndrome.