POND studies
Heterogeneity in genetic tests marketed for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed by experienced professionals who look at a child’s behaviour and development. What causes ASD is complex, but there is increasing evidence that genes play an important role. To investigate the genetic contribution to a child’s ASD diagnosis, clinicians can order genetic tests marketed for ASD. These tests look for genetic differences in a list of genes that are thought to be associated with ASD.
Children with ADHD, ASD and OCD show similar changes to connections within their brain
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and autism spectrum disorder develop connections between areas in their brain differently. Changes to brain connections show similarities across these neurodevelopmental disorders and are linked to children’s independent living skills.
TAOK2 gene causes autism-related changes to brain development and behaviour
The TAOK2 gene is involved the development of the brain and its cells. Specifically, changes to this gene affect how brain cells communicate with each other. This study reveals that TAOK2 is a risk gene for neurodevelopmental disorders.
The Oxytocin Receptor and Social Abilities Across Neurodevelopmental Disorders
The two most common variants of the oxytocin receptor were associated with greater severity of social skills deficits in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, while the same variants were associated with reduced levels of social skills deficits in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Genetic Variants Affect Brain Connections in Some People with ASD
Researchers found DIXDC1, a gene that affects the way brain cells can communicate with each other, is “turned off” in some people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, affecting memory and social communication.
Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders Share Problems Identifying Emotions
Children and youth with neurodevelopmental disorders showed problems recognizing the emotional and mental states in others, but to varying degrees. These difficulties seemed to be related to the severity of their social communication deficits.
Studies involving POND researchers
Using epigenetics to Differentiate Between Two Similar Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Identify Shared Biology
Developmental Pathways of Preschool Children with ASD
Medication Management of Behavioural Disorders in Autism
Diagnostic Symptoms and Problem Behaviours in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Studies involving other Canadian researchers
Thriving in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability
The Impact on their Families of Children with Special Needs
Resilience in Families of Children With Special Needs
Family Care for Children with Disabilities
Cognitive Profile of Children and Adolescents with Fragile X Syndrome
Other research summaries
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