New Trailblazer awardee answers questions about GI and autism
Gastrointestinal (GI) problems affect many children and
adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Access to
rigorously studied treatments for medical conditions such as GI
is a major unmet need for families. The Autism Speaks Autism
Treatment Network (ATN) provides experts in the care and
management of GI problems for these children and engages in
clinical research. However, the underlying nature of GI
dysfunction in ASD and its relationship to etiology and ASD
symptoms are still poorly understood. This information is
critical to developing better and more targeted treatments, so
both clinical and basic research in this area is needed. Given
the importance this issue, Autism Speaks has recently announced
a major Suzanne and Bob Wright Trailblazer Award for research
into the biological mechanisms of GI disorders in ASD. (Read a
press release about the award). The new study brings together
innovative and cutting-edge pilot projects that form