Newly Discovered Genes That Affect Autism; Each Gene Helps Explain How Autism Works
A DNA scan discovered 18 genes that are associated with autism. The new study on the subject has been published in the Nature Neuroscience.
According to a report, the new study has identified 61 genes that are linked to autism. The other 43 of these genes already turned up in previous studies. The new genes that have been discovered are significant in cellular processes that are already present in autism. These new discoveries of the genes also implicate new treatment for the disorder.
The researchers looked into whole-genome sequences of 5,193 individuals. Half of these individuals that are being studied have autism. It is indicated that 3,100 of these individuals form simplex families. This means that there is only one member affected by autism.
The remaining number of participants comes from families that have two or more members that are affected by autism. The study indicated that the genetic risk factor for autism is inherited with multiplex families and may come simultaneously for simplex families.
A report indicated that there are 73 unique mutations of genes for individuals with autism. Some of these are affected by medications. Additionally, the condition also may be caused by genetics. The individual that has autism has a unique DNA pattern.
Matthew Pletcher, vice president for genomic discovery at Autism Speaks shared that there are still more autism genes to be discovered. The 18 genes that are newly discovered will be the focus as of this time.
Pletcher also added that each gene discovered will help in the explanation of how autism works for an individual. This also helps with the medication and understanding the behavior in order to provide proper treatment.
Meanwhile, a study also indicated that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were more likely to have a higher drive in exploration on the physical domain. There are still more studies to help understand better how autism can be approached.
