A study published in the journal Neuron has revealed that children carrying a gene associated with severe autism show hypersensitivity to head rotation. This finding provides a new avenue for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, particularly in young children and those who are non-verbal. The researchers at the University of California, San Francisco have been studying how autism can be detected in children by monitoring their eye reflexes.
Children with the autism-linked gene SCN2A exhibit hypersensitivity to head rotation, leading them to compensate for this movement by turning their eyes. This is in contrast to individuals without the gene, whose eyes usually remain in place when the head is turned. By tracking the ocular reflex in children using a helmet-mounted system, diagnosing autism in non-verbal or uncooperative children becomes more feasible.
The study found that children with severe SCN2A-related autism exhibit a distinct compensatory reflex in their eye movements, which is measurable and noticeable. By utilizing a helmet-mounted eye-tracking camera, researchers were able to observe and quantify these reflexes in children with the gene variant.
The study also investigated the potential for restoring normal eye reflexes in mice with the SCN2A gene variant using genetic engineering. By restoring the expression of the SCN2A gene in the cerebellum of mice, researchers were able to normalize their eye reflexes. This therapy showed promise in mice at an early age equivalent to childhood in humans, suggesting a potential path for future treatments targeting the developing brain.
While a cure for autism is still far off, these findings offer valuable insights into the genetics and neurological mechanisms underlying the condition. By continuing to explore these pathways, scientists may eventually develop targeted therapies to help individuals with autism lead more fulfilling lives.
In conclusion, this research has shed light on an important aspect of diagnosing autism spectrum disorder in young children and those who are non-verbal. The use of genetic therapy could potentially allow for early treatment of this trait in the future. With further exploration into these pathways, we may one day find effective treatments that can help individuals with autism live more fulfilling lives.
