Medical Minute 12-24: Unraveling the Cause of Autism

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Medical Minute 12-24: Unraveling the Cause of Autism

Experts say one out of every 110 kids will be diagnosed with autism. Even worse,

the estimated cost of lifetime treatment is more than $3.2 million per person.

However, some researchers believe they may have cracked autism's code and the

solution lies in your tummy.

Reporter: Medalie

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Langford lives in the background. Such a loner for so long, mom and dad were

worried. Then, she was diagnosed with Autism.

" She's very bright, very sweet; the problem is with communication, " said

Langford, Zoe's Father.

She's enrolled in a controversial clinical trial at the University of Texas

where kids are fed an enzyme to help aide in protein digestion.

" There are many ways we can treat children with autism, but this one is a

different approach, " said Deborah A. Pearson, Ph.D., Professor in the Department

of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Texas UT Health.

Doctor Deborah Pearson says autistic kids simply don't accept protein well.

Studies show 70 percent have gastro-intestinal problems. Better protein

digestion may create amino acids, which could boost brain function.

" They'll be able to learn better, they'll be able to, you know, behave better, "

said Deborah A. Pearson, Ph.D.

Zoe's parents see a change.

" I notice a lot more talking, a lot more communicating. I just think she's come

out of her shell, " said Langford.

Some experts are skeptical of the treatment, but the FDA approved the final

phase of the trial, looking to see if the enzyme improves communicative

problems, social deficits and digestive problems. There are 12 trial sites

testing 170 kids between ages three and eight.

" If it can help us and our child, just imagine what it could do for those

extremely autistic children. "

For Zoe alone, it's a new way of looking at the world.