Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurological condition that manifests in a variety of ways. Some individuals may experience milder symptoms, while others face significant challenges with social, language, and cognitive skills. For those with more ‘profound’ cases of autism, lifelong supportive care may be necessary. Understanding the biological foundations behind this disparity in autism is crucial in order to better manage and support individuals with the condition.
A recent study conducted by an international team of scientists has provided valuable insights into the biological origins of autism spectrum disorder. The researchers used induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) taken from the blood of 10 toddlers with autism and 6 neurotypical controls to create brain cortical organoids (BCOs), which are simplified 3D models of brain structures. The study found that the ‘mini-brains’ derived from autistic children grew to be around 40 percent larger than those from neurotypical controls.
The researchers discovered that the size and growth rate of the BCOs were associated with the severity of autism in the individuals. Toddlers with more profound autism exhibited larger BCO overgrowth during embryonic development compared to those with milder symptoms. The study also found that overgrowth in the BCOs corresponded to overgrowth in the social parts of the brain in children with more severe autism, which may contribute to their reduced response to social stimulation.
The findings of this study suggest that overstimulation in brain growth, even at the embryonic stage, may play a role in the development of autism spectrum disorder. The research sheds light on the early stages of brain formation and provides a deeper understanding of how autism begins. By investigating the biological bases of different subtypes of autism, such as profound autism and mild autism, researchers can uncover valuable insights into the condition and potentially develop more targeted interventions and treatments.
In recent years, there has been significant progress in our understanding of autism spectrum disorder and how it impacts individuals. The research on mini-brains derived from iPSCs offers a promising avenue for further investigation into the biological mechanisms underlying autism. By examining the differences in embryonic origins between individuals with different subtypes of autism, researchers can gain valuable insights into the neurobiological causes of the condition and how it affects social and brain development.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of exploring the biological foundations of autism spectrum disorder to improve our understanding of the condition and develop more effective strategies for supporting individuals with autism. By unraveling the complex factors that contribute to autism, researchers can pave the way for innovative approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
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