Australian scientists have developed a genetic test to predict
autism spectrum disorder in children, which could provide a
long-sought way for early detection and intervention, according
to a study published on Wednesday. About one in 150 children has
autism, with symptoms ranging from social awkwardness and narrow
interests to severe communication and intellectual disabilities,
said researchers led by the University of Melbourne. The
researchers used U.S. data from more than 3,000 individuals with
autism in their study, published in the journal Molecular
Psychiatry, to identify 237 genetic markers in 146 genes and
related cellular pathways. By measuring these markers, which
either contribute to or protect an individual from developing
autism, scientists could assess the risk of developing autism.
The risk markers increase the score on the genetic test, while
the protective markers decrease the score. The higher the
overall score, the higher the individual risk. "This test could
assist in the early detection