A Unified Autism Theory - Genetic Without Being Heritable |
| Published: July 25, 2007, 4:35 am |
| Tags: unified theory of autism, maja bucan, michael wigler, autism disorder, autism causes, genetic mutation |
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The proposed Unified Autism Theory is another major paradigm shift in theories of autism causation. For a lay person like me, it challenges my understanding of genetics and heredity. Essentially the cause, or causes, of autism, can be genetic based without being heritable, arising from spontaneous mutations resulting in losses of genetic code and an inability to produce sufficient protein. The theory also suggests that there may be two classes of families, low-risk and high risk. New early treatments may be developed. But, as with any new theory, more data will be required to test the theory to determine the extent to which it is right or wrong.http://tinyurl.com/2jx5ma In work that may one day lead to earlier detection of children at risk of developing autism, a team of scientists has devised a genetic model for the enigmatic disorder. The two-tiered theory integrates families with one or more autistic children. An estimated one in every 150 children born in the U.S. develops [ Full article ] |
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