The first autism disease genes

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The first autism disease genes

Posted July 9th, 2008 by harminka

The autistic disorder, a neurodevelopmental disease first described in

1943, represents a challenge for treatment and a puzzle for research.

Alongside Asperger syndrome, a milder form of the disorder, autism is

classified in the continuum of various Autism Spectrum Disorders

(ASD), all of which are characterized by deficits in language, social

interaction, and a strangely restricted and repetitive behaviour

(stereotypy).

Disease onset occurs during the first three years of life. The earlier

the disorder is diagnosed, the sooner the child can be helped through

treatment interventions, but unfortunately detection is often delayed.

In a vast majority of cases, no disease causes can be identified.

Recent advances in autism research have been fuelled by an increased

interest in genetics, and the latest developments point to genetic

factors playing a prominent role in the causes of ASD.

Professor n Leboyer of the Psychiatry Genetic Team INSERM and

director of the specialized French research foundation for psychiatric

disorders, Fondation FondaMental, Paris, will present the compelling

neurobiological story of discovering the first autism genes. Thereby

she will highlight new findings on the role of gene mutations, their

association with synapse abnormalities, and – surprisingly – a

connection between circadian rhythms and autism risk. These insights

will nurture applied projects on the development of new therapeutic

strategies. -European College of Neuropsychopharmacology.