Childhood Disorder Identifies Possible Cause of Autism

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A study published in this week's New England Journal of Medicine uncovers the genetics behind a rare childhood disorder, shedding some light on other, more common disorders.

Researchers examined a condition now known as cortical dysplasia-focal epilepsy syndrome (CDFE). The affected children all experienced frequent seizures in childhood followed by language regression and other characteristics similar to autism. DNA from both the children and their parents, all of whom were Old Order Amish from Pennsylvania, were analyzed. The research uncovered a common mutation to the gene that codes for a protein called CASPR2.

This information, along with the similarities between this condition and autism, led researchers to believe the gene may also be behind the development of autism. They say this is the first step in developing effective treatments for the more common conditions.

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For information, resources and practical strategies on autism visit:
www.AutismConcepts.com
www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com