Mitochondrial Dysfunction Linked to Psychiatric Disorders Like Autism & ADHD (2024 Study)

A study found a strong link between mitochondrial disorders and conditions like autism, ADHD, and various psychiatric issues. Highlights: Common Link: Mitochondrial disorders are frequently found in people with autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities. ASD Emphasis: Most research focused on autism, suggesting it might be more strongly linked to mitochondrial issues or simply better funded. …

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Autism Genetics & Immune Cell Activity: Causal Biomarkers Identified (2024 Study)

A study reported significant causal relationships between specific immune cell subtypes and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), highlighting 26 genetic correlations and potential biomarkers for early detection and treatment. Highlights: Significant Genetic Correlations: The study identifies 26 potential correlations between genetic predispositions in immune cell types (immunophenotypes) and the risk of developing ASD. Bi-Directional Analysis Results: …

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Autism Linked to High Leptin & Low Progranulin in Children (2024 Meta-Analysis)

Leptin levels are significantly increased in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to healthy controls, suggesting a potential role in ASD pathology. Highlights: Leptin Levels: Children with ASD have significantly higher serum leptin levels compared to healthy controls, as confirmed by both individual study results (p=0.0319) and meta-analysis (p<0.001). Progranulin Reduction: In addition to …

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Autism & IQ (Intelligence): Low, Average, or High?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition characterized by challenges in social communication and repetitive behaviors. One aspect that contributes to the heterogeneity seen across the autism spectrum is differences in intelligence and cognitive abilities. Recent research is shining new light on the intelligence profiles of individuals with ASD, showing a shift away from …

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High Galectin-1 & Galectin-3 in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Inflammation Markers

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors. The causes are complex, involving genetic and environmental factors that affect brain development. Growing evidence implicates immune system abnormalities and neuroinflammation in ASD. Galectin-1 and galectin-3 are proteins that regulate immune responses and inflammation. A new study found significantly …

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DNA Methylation & Epigenetics: Abnormalities in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A new study published in Brain Sciences has uncovered important epigenetic differences in a group of Mexican children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to neurotypical controls. The research provides new insights into the complex interplay between genes and environment in ASD, with implications for improving diagnosis and treatment. Key facts: Researchers found 853 …

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Immune Dysfunction & Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors. Research increasingly points to dysregulation of the innate immune system and neuroinflammation as contributing factors in ASD. Key facts: Inflammatory cytokines and chemokines are consistently elevated in the blood of individuals with ASD. These suggest activation of the …

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Cracking the Social Code: Brain Imaging Sheds Light on Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects social interaction and communication. A new brain imaging study provides insights into how disruptions in the brain’s social networks may relate to core autism symptoms. The research identifies specific brain regions and circuits that differ in children with ASD compared to typically developing peers. Key Facts: Children with ASD showed …

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