Researchers pursuing novel methods to diagnose autism
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A handful of recent studies are delving into new methods of screening children and adults for autism. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 1 in 88 children has this
disorder, which affects communication, behavior, and socialization. In one study, researchers suggest that “micromovements” some people with autism make when asked to point to a dot on a
screen may be indicative of the disorder. These results have been published in the open-access journal _Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience_. (The journal _Medical Daily_ offers a
less-dense synopsis of the research.) Also, Google Ventures has provided funding to SynapDx Corp., which is in trials to predict the risk of autism though blood testing. The blood tests
examine the ribonucleic acids, or RNA, that becomes visible when white blood cells in a blood sample are dissolved. The behavior of RNA can be linked to autism risk, the company says. The
test could be used for children as young as two years old; the average age of diagnosis of autism is 4.5 years. SynapDx has raised more than $30 million and plans to conduct tests at 20
sites around the country, including several children’s hospitals. _On Special Education is on Twitter! Follow @OnSpecEd_.