Single Mutation Might Cause Autism
Scientists have studied disorders such as Autism for quite some time, and as technology and medicine advance so does our knowledge of these diseases. Though scientists believed that Autism was caused by genetic and environmental factors, we still cannot be sure what causes certain people to be diagnosed with them. However, researchers might be closer to answering this question than ever before.
Gene Mutation Study
According to Aamna Mohdin with IFLScience, “It was just last December that researchers first identified more than 1,000 gene mutations linked with autism. While these mutations were shown to increase the risk of autism, researchers weren’t exactly sure how.” University of North Carolina researchers have conducted a new study, in which they found an enzyme, UBE3A, is switched “on” in children with Autism. This enzyme is essential to brain development, and in a normal situation, it would have a phosphate molecule attached to it that would turn it off in the developmental process. Mohdin explains that, “As a result of being constantly switched on, UBE3A becomes hyperactive.” This is what the researchers believe leads to the abnormal brain development in children with Autism.
Autism
The Centers for Disease Control tells us that 1 in 68 children in the United States are diagnosed with Autism. There is no cure for Autism; however, researchers are discovering several ways to help cope with the disease and to help children suffering from Autism learn how to live with the disorder. Autism Speaks has a myriad of information for those seeking help, including different types of technologies and programs that are proven to aid in the development of social and behavioral skills.
Several Recent Discussions Focusing on Autism
In July, we saw a rise in the number of Autism cases; however, many believe this was due to a reclassification of the term. A debate was also sparked by the question, “Can medical marijuana ease Autism side effects?” Several parents are attempting to use this natural treatment to calm their kids when severe behavioral issues arise.
Autism Awareness is growing, and the debate on the best way to help the children is still underway. However, this new study is a step in the right direction to understanding the disease and possibly having the ability to diagnose it better, and treat it better.
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Single Mutation Might Be Cause For Autism
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