One of the major discoveries in the identification of genes associated with autism are ‘de novo’ mutations, or those not found in either parent. However, there are also cases of autism where a mutation is passed from a non-affected parent that results in autism in the child. Recent work by Dr. Turner has shown specific genes coming from the mother are present in boys, but not girls, with ASD. This study will go on to identify those specific genes that are transmitted from a parent and describe features in the children with autism who inherited them to see if there is any sort of behavioral difference. Then these genes will be sequenced so they can be studied further by this and other laboratories. This will ultimately help clinicians understand some of the differences in males and females with autism and possibly lead to individualized treatment targets.
Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC)
Autism Research Database (AFD)
