Genes

A person’s genetic makeup can ease or worsen the effect of mutations linked to autism.

A new computational method sifts true mutations from spurious ones in a single cell’s genome.

Autistic children may be more likely than their unaffected siblings to carry mutations in genes linked to sleep.

Researchers are studying how a combination of genetic ‘hits’ may contribute to autism’s diversity.

Genetics may govern a person’s ability to pay attention to social cues.

Children in families with a history of brain conditions may be at increased odds of being autistic.

No genetic test can say whether a person has autism, but it may point to a cause for the condition or for any related complications.

Two new studies point to the possibility of detecting autism mutations before birth — along with all the ethical and logistical problems that may bring.