Understanding the Shared Neural Signature of Autism: New Research from the University of Minnesota Medical School
New research from the University of Minnesota Medical School suggests that different genetic forms of autism may lead to similar patterns in brain activity and behavior. The findings, recently published in Nature Neuroscience, shed light on the commonalities in brain function among individuals with autism, despite distinct genetic origins.
The study utilized brain-recording technology to observe neurons across the entire brain and explore whether different genetic forms of autism produce shared patterns in brain activity. The research team found that autism-linked mutations affected how expectations are updated during decision-making, providing insight into the neural mechanisms underlying the disorder.
According to Geschwind, a lead researcher on the study, “several of the genes linked to autism were found to contribute to shared patterns of brain activity. This suggests that the molecular changes in neuron function and communication are a cause, rather than an effect, of the disease.”
Additionally, a recent study led by neuroscientist Guillaume Dumas revealed that individuals with autism exhibit weaker brain synchronization during social interactions compared to neurotypical individuals. This finding emphasizes the importance of viewing autism as a relational condition, highlighting the shared responsibility in social interactions.
The study also identified 65 high-confidence genes associated with autism, with 27 genes newly identified in this research. These genes fall into two main functional categories, shedding light on the genetic basis of the complex disorder.
Exploring the Genetic and Neural Basis of Autism
Whole-genome sequencing data has allowed researchers to identify rare noncoding variants associated with autism spectrum disorder. By studying organoids made from different donors, researchers observed similar changes in neural development influenced by autism risk genes. However, the study also highlighted the variability in clinical manifestations of autism risk gene mutations across individuals, suggesting that genetic interactions play a role in determining the severity of the disorder.
Overall, the research from the University of Minnesota Medical School provides valuable insights into the shared neural signature of autism, offering new perspectives on the genetic and neural basis of the disorder. By uncovering common patterns in brain activity among individuals with different genetic forms of autism, the study contributes to our understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying the condition.
