Scientists identify new genes linked to autism

More than 100 gene mutations which could cause autism were identified by scientists, which could help screening for the disorder in the future, according to a new study published in the latest issue of the scientific journal Nature.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which affects around 700,000 people in Britain, influences how individuals communicate and interact with others. Genetic mutations are one of the main risk factors that can make a person more likely to develop ASD, thus identifying certain genes may improve our understanding of this disorder.

By analyzing DNA samples from 3,871 individuals with autism and 9,937 controls, a team of researchers from Britain and US identified over 100 genes that are likely to affect risk for this condition. Over 5 percent of the individuals with autism display new loss-of-function mutations in these genes.

According to researchers, many of the genes implicated are thought to be involved in neuronal function, including formation of connections and synaptic transmission, as well as in regulation of gene expression.

"Up until now we've really not been able to understand the mechanisms that lead to autism," Prof David Skuse from Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, and a contributor to the report said that: "This study is getting down to much finer detail, and it could start to help families understand autism."