Autism tied to genes that influence brain cell connections

Researchers have identified a new gene variant that is highly common in autistic children. Gene, known as CDH10, is most active in key regions that support language, speech and interpreting social behavior.

In three studies, including the most comprehensive study of autism genetics to date, investigators funded in part by the National Institutes of Health have identified common and rare genetic factors that affect the risk of autism spectrum disorders.

The results point to the importance of genes that are involved in forming and maintaining the connections between brain cells.

"These findings establish that genetic factors play a strong role in autism spectrum disorder," says Acting NIH Director Raynard Kington, M.D., Ph.D. "Detailed analysis of the genes and how they affect brain development is likely to yield better strategies for diagnosing and treating children with autism."

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) comprise a group of disorders with core symptoms that include social interaction problems, poor verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. These disorders range from severe (autism) to mild (Asperger's syndrome), and in total affect some 1 in 150 American children, about three-quarters of whom are boys. Researchers theorize that the social parts of the brain are underdeveloped in ASD.

"Previous studies have suggested that autism is a developmental disorder resulting from abnormal connections in the brain. These three studies suggest some of the genetic factors which might lead to abnormal connectivity," says Thomas Insel, M.D., director of NIH's National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

Previous, smaller genetic studies reported a connection between male-only autism and CNTNAP2, a type of neurexin. Together, the three new studies suggest that genetic differences in cell-to-cell adhesion could influence susceptibility to ASD on a large scale. Dr. Hakonarson and his colleagues are planning an even more extensive genome-wide association study to gain a more complete picture of the genes and gene interactions involved in ASD.


(Editor compiled and published Autism tied to genes that influence brain cell connections at HealthNewsTrack on April 30, 2009 sourced from National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - http://www.ninds.nih.gov/)

Autism - recent articles and current news stories:

- Earlier sign of autism can be noticed in 6 months old infants
- Brain cell channel defect may cause autism like syndrome
- Autism linked to gene mutation on chromosome 16
- Environment factors important than genetic in autism
- Autism linked to hundreds of genetic changes

Autism article/news source:

Read more health articles from National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and health articles from USA.

Autism - search related terms:

Asperger's syndrome, Autism, Autism spectrum disorder, Autistic child, CDH10, Gene, Genetic, Language, Social behavior, Speech,
Autism books,

Subscribe to Health News by Email

List health news, Health organizations, Health news world, Glossary, Best health articles, Featured     Go to top

The information provided on Health Newstrack is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her physician. We comply with the HONcode principles for trustworthy health information, and Health News Track is hon code accredited, verify here.
About us, Site map Privacy policy, Disclaimer
© 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 HealthNewsTrack.com
2.68