Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in early childhood, most often between 18 and 36 months. In order to diagnose this disease as soon as possible, US researchers at the Autism Center of Excellence are working on a blood test that could be available as early as next year.
In L’American Journal of Human Genetics, scientists at the University of California explain that they analyzed the genetic profiles of 32 children with autism. They identified several causative genes of the disease. “During the 4th, 5th and 6th weeks of pregnancy, these genes disrupt the production of brain cells, either by producing too much or not enough. The way they are connected to each other would also be disrupted”, says Eric Courchesne, co- author of the study.
The National Institute of Health and Medical Research estimates that childhood autism affects around 30,000 children in France. Based on the association of genes, the research team hopes to develop a blood test capable of finding possible genetic mutations and identifying forms of autism from one year of age. If successful, this test could allow early care for the child and help him improve his ability to interact with the world around him.
