January 13, 2025
- A study published in Molecular Psychiatry reveals that lithium, commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, shows promise as a therapy for ASD. Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science discovered that lithium can restore brain function and alleviate behavioral symptoms in animal models of ASD caused by mutations in the Dyrk1a gene. Administering lithium during juvenile stages normalized brain size, improved neuronal structure and function, and mitigated anxiety and social deficits, with effects persisting into adulthood. These findings highlight lithium’s role in addressing neural signaling disruptions, notably through the Kalirin-7 molecule, and emphasize the importance of early intervention.
- A longitudinal birth cohort study found that prenatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is associated with an increased risk of autism, as measured by the MCHAT score at 18 months. PCB levels, particularly PCB126 and non-dioxin-like congeners such as PCB74, PCB199, and PCB209, were identified as significant predictors of ASD risk, likely due to their influence on neural development processes like Ca²⁺ signaling and dendritic growth. The study highlights the potential of incorporating environmental factors into early ASD risk screening, offering promising avenues for improving early identification and intervention strategies. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms linking specific PCB congeners to neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- A large meta-analysis published in JAMA Pediatrics found that higher fluoride exposure, measured in urine and drinking water, was associated with lower IQ scores in children, with an average decrease of 7 points observed in areas with elevated fluoride levels. The analysis included data from over 20,000 children across 59 studies, though the effects were less evident at the lower fluoride levels typically found in community water systems. While some researchers argue the findings highlight the need to reevaluate fluoride use, particularly for pregnant women and children, others contend that the evidence does not support changes to policies promoting fluoridation for cavity prevention. The study emphasizes the need for more rigorous research to clarify fluoride’s potential effects on neurodevelopment and guide public health decisions.
- The Autism Research Institute is collaborating with the University of Calgary to recruit participants for a vital survey aimed at improving support and resources for aging adults with autism and individuals with intellectual disabilities. The University seeks input from people with lived experience, families, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and professionals with insights on autism and intellectual disability in older adults. The survey takes 10 minutes to complete.
