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Spectrum: Autism Research News

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Genes

Rare or common, inherited or spontaneous, mutations form the core of autism risk.

April 2019
Illustration of a human fetus in a screening test

Prenatal sequencing for some autism genes may soon be available

by  /  10 April 2019

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

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human making connections

Sharing genetic results can advance autism science, medical care

by ,  /  9 April 2019

People with autism and their families can be important partners in understanding the genetics of autism by agreeing to share their genetic data.

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DNA

Repeats of certain DNA segments may align with autism severity

by  /  3 April 2019

Certain repeated stretches of DNA that are linked to the expansion of the primate brain may also enhance autism traits.

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March 2019

New maps plot hot spots of diversity across human genome

by  /  29 March 2019

A pair of maps that depict variation in the human genome may help reveal the genetic roots of autism.

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Human embryo editing

Prominent scientists call for ban on human gene editing

by  /  25 March 2019

A group of the world’s leading geneticists is calling for a moratorium on the editing of DNA in human embryos.

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Spectrum stories podcast logo.

Spectrum Stories: The benefits of genetic testing in autism

by  /  18 March 2019

Finding a mutation linked to autism traits can have life-changing consequences for autistic individuals and their families.

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Faulty mitochondria may fuel features of fragile X syndrome

by  /  14 March 2019

Problems with the minute ‘factories’ that yield energy for cells — the mitochondria — may contribute to learning problems and other traits of fragile X syndrome.

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Three views of a lab monkey

Mutant monkey clones could aid study of autism

by  /  8 March 2019

Scientists have created five monkey clones, all carrying an edit to a specific gene.

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February 2019

Drugs that modify gene expression show promise for autism

by  /  28 February 2019

An experimental compound that blocks two enzymes involved in gene expression improves social behavior in young mice.

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Portrait of Ivan Iossifov

Webinar: Ivan Iossifov discusses genetic variants linked to autism traits

 /  27 February 2019

Watch the complete replay of Ivan Iossifov discussing the genetic basis of autism’s features.

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