Autism spectrum disorders are among the most heartbreaking—and mysterious—of childhood maladies. New genetic research opens a window on a possible cause

DrorAr101 — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 07:26:52 +0000

Uncovering a Common Mutation
The symptoms are gradual and insidious. An infant or toddler begins to withdraw from social interaction and to take refuge in solitary, often repetitive behaviors. As the months and years pass, the child becomes increasingly difficult and unresponsive—and another family is devastated by the effects of autism.

Autism and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) affect an estimated one in 150 U.S. children. While rare genetic mutations are known to increase the risk of such conditions, UM researchers recently identified common gene mutations that could also play a role. to the original post

common Archives - Living with Autism

Autism spectrum disorders are among the most heartbreaking—and mysterious—of childhood maladies. New genetic research opens a window on a possible cause