February 16, 2007

discovery of tiny genetic anomalies that can trigger autism

These comments follow the publication of the findings of the Autism Gene Project, the largest study into the genetic causes of autism, in the journal Nature Genetics.

Professor John Burn, Medical Director & Head of Institute, Institute of Human Genetics, University of Newcastle, said:

“This is fantastic news. We have been waiting for the log jam to break on this for several years. There will almost certainly be an interaction between several genes so this one discovery doesn’t provide a complete answer and may not lead straight to a genetic test but it could be a key step in development for effective treatments as it provides a target for drug development.”

r Fred Kavalier of the British Society for Human Genetics, said:

“Autism and related disorders affect up to 1 in 100 British children. There is not one specific gene that causes autism, but there a large number of genes that contribute to it. This new research has identified new genes that make up part of the complicated autism jigsaw. Further research will be needed to understand these genes better, in the hope that they will be useful in designing new treatments in the future. A cure for autism is a long way off, but this is one small step in the right direction.”