top of page

GENETICS APPROACH

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are diagnostically characterized by behaviors (social-communication deficits and restricted, repetitive behaviors). As a result, many of those diagnosed with ASD have variable patterns of behavior, and represent many different diseases with similar features. By studying genetic sequences (biologically inherited codes that account for a variety of physical characteristics and behaviors) and mutations (when the genetic sequence is permanently altered) such as deletions or duplications, we can get a better biological picture of ASD.  With today’s focus and effort in furthering genetic research, more and more genetic differences are being discovered.

​

Dr. Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWeele from Columbia University is one of the few scientists that serve dual roles to help the autism community, treating people and working in a lab.  Because of this unique perspective, his presentation focuses on how research findings in the lab help individuals with autism in the clinic, and vice-versa. He discusses a couple different genetic models that the research community uses. One way the community develops treatments is to “fix” the biological difference with a certain drug, and then observe any changes in behavior. The second way is to observe a behavior rooted in a biological difference (such as levels of oxytocin, a hormone that acts in the brain, and influences certain behaviors), and develop a treatment to account for the difference. Due to the diversity within ASD, researchers are more likely to find treatments that work for only a part of the population at a time. Please watch the video below for Dr. Veenstra-VanderWeele's complete presentation on how genetic research can lead to the development of treatments and deeper understanding of ASD.

HELPFUL DEFINITIONS

If you are looking for research resources, please click here.

bottom of page