Tag

Developmental Disorders

All articles tagged with #developmental disorders

Could autism be preventable in some cases through early-life exposures?
health5 days ago

Could autism be preventable in some cases through early-life exposures?

Some scientists are exploring whether avoiding environmental exposures before conception and in early life—the so‑called 'trimester zero' window—could lower autism risk in some children. While still in early stages, obstetricians like Jeanne Conry point to a 1,300‑day window (from preconception through a child’s second birthday) during which nutrition and lifestyle may influence autism risk, suggesting potential, non-guaranteed prevention rather than definitive outcomes.

"No Link Found Between Preterm Birth and Autism, Study Shows"
health2 years ago

"No Link Found Between Preterm Birth and Autism, Study Shows"

A new study challenges the controversial notion that preterm births contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) development. Researchers analyzed over 114,000 deliveries in Israel from 2005-2017, finding no significant association between preterm delivery and autism after adjusting for factors like ethnicity and maternal age. The comprehensive study, involving a diverse participant pool, suggests that autism’s causes are likely multifactorial, with no single obstetric factor being a determinant. The findings provide valuable insights into autism’s complex etiology, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to understanding and addressing this developmental disorder.

Neurodevelopmental Risks Tied to Moderate Preterm Birth
health2 years ago

Neurodevelopmental Risks Tied to Moderate Preterm Birth

A comprehensive study analyzing over 75 studies involving more than eight million children reveals that moderate preterm birth (32-38 weeks) is associated with an increased risk of developmental disorders such as cerebral palsy, cognitive impairment, and language delay. While the risks for each child are small, the population-level impact is significant, given the prevalence of moderately preterm births. The study emphasizes the need for better understanding, support, and early intervention for these children, highlighting the role of healthcare professionals and educators in providing tailored assistance.

Uncovering the Genetic Roots of Bipolar Disorder through Mosaic Mutations
health2 years ago

Uncovering the Genetic Roots of Bipolar Disorder through Mosaic Mutations

Researchers have discovered that patients with bipolar disorder (BD) possess mosaic variants enriched in genes related to developmental disorders and autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, significant heteroplasmic mutations in mitochondrial tRNA genes were found in BD participants. The study sheds new light on the genetic architecture of BD and provides more insights into the pathological contribution of mosaic variants in human diseases.

Placenta's Role in Schizophrenia Development Surpasses Brain's.
neuroscience2 years ago

Placenta's Role in Schizophrenia Development Surpasses Brain's.

Over 100 genes associated with schizophrenia risk operate primarily through their role in the placenta, rather than the developing brain, challenging the century-old assumption that genes for schizophrenia risk primarily affect the brain. These risk genes influence the placenta’s critical function of sensing and exchanging nutrients with the mother’s bloodstream, affecting the health of the developing fetus. The findings suggest that assessing placenta health could be key to early intervention and prevention of developmental disorders.

Genomic sequencing identifies 60 new rare diseases in UK and Ireland.
health2 years ago

Genomic sequencing identifies 60 new rare diseases in UK and Ireland.

A study conducted over 10 years in the UK and Ireland, involving the genetic analysis of 13,500 families with unexplained disorders, has led to the discovery of 60 new diseases. The study was able to give a diagnosis to 5,500 families, leading to better care and personalized treatment for affected children. Most of the disorders were errors that had occurred spontaneously at conception, rather than being inherited. The discovery of new genetic conditions means that not only people in the study benefit, but there are huge benefits to future generations.