New Autism Study reveals Missing Genes May Contribute to Autism Risk

Hey Everyone, Steph here! I just came across an amazing study completed at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. Researchers just determined the gene deletions were much more common with people diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum versus typically developing subjects. The research found 803 gene deletions in those on the spectrum and 583 in the control group. Those with autism were more likely to have multiple small deletions, the researchers said. Furthermore, the researchers stated that the specific gene deletions were from genes related to autophagy. Autophagy is a process that helps keep cells healthy and is thought to be a critical component of brain development. Researchers at Mount Sianai say this study is only the beginning and they are going to continue examining the genome sequences of individuals.

Hope you enjoyed the research break through as much as I did!

–Steph