Environment

Sophisticated animal models — including a new rat model — are revealing how maternal antibodies contribute to autism risk.

Nongenetic rodent models most relevant to autism tend to be those exposed to environmental agents in the womb or shortly after birth.

Four large studies published since May arrive at various conclusions about whether exposure to antidepressants in the womb ups autism risk.

A small study suggests that baby teeth may afford a way to explore environmental risk factors for autism.

The tendency of people with autism to not make eye contact is rooted in genetics, suggests a study of identical and fraternal twins.

The odds of getting an autism diagnosis depend on where in the United States a person lives.

Having fevers while pregnant boosts the risk of having a child with autism, according to a study of more than 95,000 women.

Pups born to pregnant mice infected with a mock virus are known to show changes in their immune system. These effects may in turn impair proper brain signaling, according to results presented Saturday at the 2013 Society for Neuroscience annual meeting in San Diego.

Children born to women who had low blood levels of vitamin D while pregnant double their risk of autism.