New study highlights underlying genetic causes of autism

Scientists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have achieved a breakthrough in studies to determine how the different genes associated with autism are interrelated.

Researchers conducted a study which aimed to shed light on why autism is influenced by so many different genes, with the specific genes involved varying between patients.

By constructing a network based on the expression pattern of genes across different brain areas, they found that mutations and common gene variants seen among autistics tend to be located in specific functional groups.

These genes were observed as being highly active during the first year of life, affecting processes such as learning, memory and perception.

Study authors hope these discoveries could be used to develop large-scale genetic scans for autism, as well as drugs that alleviate the symptoms of the condition.

NHS figures show that autistic spectrum disorders affect one in every hundred children in England and are three to four times more likely to affect boys than girls.