Mouse studies cast astrocytes as stars of sensory perception
Data from two separate research teams suggest the cells are key to sensory hypersensitivity in fragile X syndrome.
Rare or common, inherited or spontaneous, mutations form the core of autism risk.
Data from two separate research teams suggest the cells are key to sensory hypersensitivity in fragile X syndrome.
The study also reveals a link between language development and common variants.
The gene, YTHDF2, has not previously been linked to autism.
The findings, based on Swedish national registry data, suggest a critical need to expand mental health services for autistic people.
The technique could be used to identify and control cells involved in autism.
The developmental models have advantages over natural embryos and other synthetic models, such as organoids, but present technical and ethical challenges.
Collecting brain scans from thousands of people can be challenging in autism research; data-sharing and collaborative efforts can help drive results that stand up to statistical scrutiny.
The rare variants are also linked to ADHD and Tourette syndrome, two other conditions that disproportionately affect boys and men.
A meeting in Texas reckons with the future of treatment, following two setbacks in 2020.
Mice missing the autism-linked SHANK2 and SHANK3 genes in their retrosplenial cortex have trouble distinguishing between novel and familiar mice.