Clinical Corner, November 2016
Genetic Research Could Lead to Earlier Autism Diagnosis
In an article published in Behavior Genetics, researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negeg (BGU) say they’re closer to understanding the genetic basis of autism. The researchers found distinct characteristics in genes associated with autism that distinguish them from other brain-specific genes. They believe this will allow the identification of additional autism genes, leading to an earlier diagnosis of autism.
“We are now a step closer to understanding the genes associated with autism and understanding the biological process involved in the disease,” says Dr. idan Menashe, who along with his colleagues, Erez Tsur and Professor Michael Friger, is a member of the BGU Department of Public Health in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
One particularly distinct characteristic of autism genes the researchers found is their exceptional genomic length, which is longer than other brain-expressed genes of closely related diseases such as Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia.
“Our findings suggest that ASD genes have evolved under complex evolutionary forces, which have left a unique signature that can be used to identify new ASD candidate genes,” the researchers add.
To read the full article, please visit sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/10/161006102944.htm.
Together, we can unlock your child’s potential
Related News
08/04/2025
Safety & Autism Centers
Safety & Autism Centers: How LAC Prioritizes Safety As a parent, trusting anyone with the safety of your child is a big ask, even more so when you know that your child sees, feels, and experiences the world differently. At Lighthouse Autism Center, we understand that safety means more than locked doors or clean playrooms. […]
06/11/2025
Overcoming Stereotypes
Autism stereotypes are common and can have significant social consequences for autistic children. Misconceptions hinder the acceptance and inclusion of autistic children. Challenging these stereotypes is vital for creating a more understanding and supportive society. Challenging Common Autism Stereotypes When people hear the word “autism,” they often imagine a narrow set of images, like the […]
06/11/2025
What’s Next After ABA Therapy?
There are a number of reasons why an autistic child might stop ABA therapy, and one is that they have reached their goals. In this article, we take a look at what parents can expect going forward. What Are the Next Steps After ABA Therapy? As a parent, you only want what’s best for your […]
