Table of Contents
What is the latest research on autism?
Autism, like many other conditions in the past, was misunderstood and surrounded by misconceptions, which delayed access to treatment and societal understanding. However, over time, progress has been made not only in social awareness and acceptance but also in autism research, which has led to a better understanding of this condition.
For example, in 1911, psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler used the term “autism” to refer to a series of characteristics observed in adults with schizophrenia. Later, in 1943, Leo Kanner took a different approach, describing childhood autism as a unique condition separate from schizophrenia. Kanner identified a set of specific behaviors, such as difficulty in social interaction, problems with verbal and non-verbal communication, and an insistence on routine and repetition.
Since then, autism research has progressed significantly. Studies have revealed that autism is a broad spectrum with considerable variations in the presentation and severity of symptoms. This shift has led to a better perception and the development of more personalized therapies and inclusion for individuals with autism.
In this blog by ABA Centers of Georgia, we will explore how autism research has advanced in the past ten years, what we know about its causes, and what we can say about the myth of a cure for autism.
Autism Research: What are the Causes of Autism?
One of the first questions parents and caregivers have when their loved ones receive the diagnosis of autism is what causes it. The truth is that even today, there is no specific answer, but recent research may shed some more light on the possible causes.
In understanding the causes of autism, researchers have made significant scientific advancements, particularly in terms of genetics. Initially, researchers considered environmental factors to be the primary cause of autism. However, studies conducted by Psychological Medicine found a significantly higher concordance rate among monozygotic twins compared to dizygotic twins, suggesting a genetic influence on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further research established a proportional relationship between the risk of ASD and the percentage of shared genomes with affected siblings or parents.
Nature Neuroscience has identified somatic mosaicism’s role in ASD. Somatic mosaicism refers to DNA mutations occurring after fertilization, contributing to various neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. Large-scale sequencing studies have identified somatic variations in ASD individuals, particularly in critical exons, shedding light on its significance in ASD etiology. Moreover, studies have shown enhanced expression of pathogenic variants in specific brain regions, such as the amygdala, suggesting localized effects contributing to ASD pathology.
Moreover, a recent study by Nature Genetics identified five new risk genes for autism (NAV3, ITSN1, MARK2, SCAF1, and HNRNPUL2) by analyzing both de novo variants (DNVs) and rare inherited coding variants. The study found that rare loss-of-function (LoF) variants in these new genes account for a significant portion of ASD risk. Rare inherited variants primarily link the gene NAV3 to ASD and associate.
Hereditability in Autism
There are some conditions and diseases that researchers have proven to be passed down from generation to generation. Examples include hypertension, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, according to the National Library of Medicine. Similarly, in some cases, this also happens with autism. Scientific studies have shown that autism has a significant genetic basis, meaning there can be a hereditary predisposition to developing this condition. Although genetics is not the only factor involved in the development of autism, relatives of people with autism have a higher risk of developing the condition compared to the general population.
Most genetic studies focus on families with only one autistic child (simplex families) to identify rare de novo variants. However, a previous study on AGRE multiplex families, where multiple family members are autistic, revealed that rare inherited variants also significantly contribute to ASD risk, a finding not seen in simplex families. This new study by the National Academy of Sciences on an extended cohort of AGRE multiplex families, double the previous size, validated and expanded the list of ASD risk genes influenced by rare inherited variants. Researchers identified seven new ASD risk genes and confirmed two others, showing that rare inherited variants primarily drive these associations. The study also found that multiplex families exhibit a distinct genetic architecture, where both common and rare variants additively contribute to ASD, influencing a range of phenotypes.
Does Autism Have a Cure?
Does autism have a cure? What treatments are available for autism? Can my child lead an everyday life?” These are common questions among parents and caregivers of children with autism. While these are entirely valid questions, it is essential to demystify the idea of a cure for autism. Many families face the challenge that their children may need support throughout their lives, and this can be a source of worry and distress. However, we must understand that autism does not have a cure.
In some cases, where the level of autism is not as severe, individuals can lead completely independent lives. Therapeutic approaches can help manage the more challenging characteristics of autism and improve the skills of those who experience it, helping them develop new positive abilities.
One of the most well-known and widely used therapies is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA is an intervention that uses principles of learning and motivation to teach social, communicative, and behavioral skills through positive reinforcement. This therapy can be highly effective in reducing problematic behaviors and promoting the development of essential skills.
In addition to ABA, other therapeutic and educational approaches, such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and the use of visual and technological supports, can help individuals with autism reach their full potential. It is crucial to understand that each person with autism is unique, and therapists personalized the programs to address their specific needs and strengthen their abilities.
Therefore, although autism does not have a cure, with the appropriate intervention and necessary support, many individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, developing their talents and actively participating in their communities.
What Comes Next?
As we have explored throughout this blog and over the years, knowledge about autism has evolved significantly. ASD was once a misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and even questioned condition, but it is now better understood, thanks to advances in research, autism advocacy, and increased social acceptance. Now, there is more knowledge, inclusion, and understanding of autism, which has enabled a more informed and empathetic approach toward individuals living with this condition.
So, what comes next? There is still much to cover and do regarding autism research. It is crucial to continue investigating its genetic and environmental causes and to develop new treatment approaches.
The road ahead involves not only scientific advancement but also strengthening community support and creating inclusive policies that ensure all individuals with autism, regardless of their economic situation, can receive the help and support they need to thrive. Collaboration among researchers, healthcare professionals, educators, and the general community will be vital to continuing to build a more understanding and inclusive world for individuals with autism and their families.
ABA Centers of Georgia and Autism Support
At ABA Centers of Georgia, we have witnessed how hundreds of families in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Buckhead, and Marietta have improved their lives through the empathic and behavioral approach of ABA therapy.
Kids and teens on the spectrum can achieve more independent living and improve challenging behaviors while learning positive skills. Call us at (855) 929-5058 or schedule a free appointment to find out how ABA therapy works. We can be the developmental partner for your child on the spectrum.
