Research shows that males are four to five times more likely to be diagnosed with Autism than females. New studies have shown that females need a higher amount of genetic mutation to be diagnosed with autism than males. Understanding the biology behind this and studying females separately from males could lead to major advancements in the prevention and treatment of ASD in both males and females. (Singer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scientists are currently doing research to determine whether autism is sex-linked or autosomal, so far it looks like there is a little bit of each.

 

 

   Researchers are currently:

• searching for irregular segments of genetic code that children with autism may have inherited 

• trying to identify a single “trigger” that causes autism to develop

• investigating the possibility that under certain conditions, a cluster of unstable genes may interfere with brain development

• investigating problems during pregnancy or delivery as well as environmental factors such as viral infections, metabolic imbalances and exposure to chemicals

 

One important discovery made by scientists is the role de novo mutations may have in autism. These glitches in the genetic code occur spontaneously in a sperm or egg cell. (Makin)