In autism, individual brain regions are often intact, but show less connectivity with each other

by Sarah Hansen Difficulties with social interaction, communication, and motor control are hallmarks of autism. It’s also true that many individuals on the autism spectrum demonstrate average or above-average intelligence, and the intelligence of others can be masked by difficulties initiating speech and movement. This is why at Hussman, we always “presume competence” in individuals…

Recent genetic analyses help focus future autism research on neuronal connectivity pathways

By Sarah Hansen One of the challenges of genetically complex conditions like autism is that no single gene explains more than a tiny fraction of cases. Instead, the growing consensus is that numerous genes are responsible, and produce their effect by impacting the same biological “pathways.” A 2011 study authored by John P. Hussman and…