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A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Shani Stern (Sagol Department of Neurobiology) has discovered that genetic mutations in nerve cells of children with autism cause rapid growth followed by rapid deterioration during fetal development. “The results of our study show that children with autism that are usually characterized with a late development actually begin with accelerated development,” explains Dr. Stern. “Neurons that develop at a normal rate acquire appropriate protections for the very complex activity they perform, including defenses against the penetration of ions and neurotransmitters, which are liable to be toxic.” The discovery, which sheds light on the possible origins of autism, may lead to new treatments. Dr. Stern and her team are now searching for compounds that can slow this rapid development in order to create protection for these neurons. The study was recently published in Nature. READ MORE