June 03, 2024
- A recent scientific article by UC Davis MIND Institute researchers has identified significant differences in brain development between boys and girls with autism aged 2-13. The study found that girls on the spectrum have a thicker cortex at age three compared to neurotypical girls, with more pronounced differences than those observed in boys. Additionally, girls with autism showed faster cortical thinning as they aged, particularly between ages 2-4. These findings highlight the importance of including both sexes in longitudinal autism studies to understand developmental differences fully. The research also emphasizes that underdiagnosis in girls and inherent biological differences contribute to the sex bias in autism diagnoses.
- Scientists at the University of Utah Health found that gastrointestinal (GI) distress can reduce social behaviors in mice, suggesting a potential link between GI problems and ASD. Their new research showed that mice experiencing colitis—a condition causing pain and diarrhea—displayed reduced social interaction, an effect that persisted even after GI symptoms subsided. The researchers could alleviate GI symptoms and related behavioral changes by introducing specific beneficial bacteria, such as Blautia and Bacteroides uniformis, into the mice’s guts. These findings highlight the often-reported gut-brain connection and suggest that manipulating the gut microbiome could be a therapeutic strategy for improving social behaviors and health in individuals with autism. This study underscores the potential for developing personalized microbiome-targeted therapies to treat ASD and other conditions linked to GI distress.
- New research from the University of Vermont highlights the importance of moving from categorical diagnostic systems to a transdiagnostic dimensional approach for assessing childhood mental health disorders, particularly neurodevelopmental disorders, in early childhood. The article emphasizes that early symptoms often manifest as developmental delays, which can indicate various disorders. Early intervention, especially for language deficits, is crucial as it can significantly improve developmental outcomes. The authors argue for a multidisciplinary approach integrating efforts across different settings and providers. They stress that language ability is central to social cognition and functioning, which are often impaired in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder and ADHD. Therefore, screening for language deficits should be prioritized when early signs of neurodevelopmental disorders are observed, guiding assessment and intervention strategies.
- The Autism Research Institute is hosting a webinar titled “Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Regulation.” This free event will take place at 1 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, and will be presented by Noor A. Hussein, PhD and Ayan Mondal, PhD.
