Autism breakthrough 'may transform treatment'

Two American-led studies, published in the journal Nature, and one conducted by British scientists at Oxford University, published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry, have for the first time pinpointed the genetic mechanisms behind autism.

The scientists say this is a similar breakthrough to one that revolutionised the understanding and treatment of cancer 30 years ago, and could mark a transformation in tackling autism.

It is believed a genetic jigsaw underpins autism, but identifying the pieces has proved challenging.

However, this new research, which involved screening the DNA of thousands of volunteers, suggests that proteins called cell adhesion molecules, which control the way the brain and nerve cells communicate, play a key role.

It is hoped the breakthrough can lead to new treatments which target the proteins or the genes that provide the instructions for the brain.

Autism covers a group of conditions known as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), which mean sufferers have an impaired ability to communicate and interact socially.

The condition affects about one in 150 mostly male children.

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