Special Education Saturday - A Blood Test for Autism

A group of researchers from the JC Self Research Institute of the Greenwood Genetic Center and Biolog Inc. discovered that those with an autism spectrum disorder had a significantly lowered ability to metabolize the amino acid L-trytophan than others. 

So what.

Well, there are two implications. The first is for diagnosis, the other for treatment.

There may be a diagnostic blood test that could look for the metabolism of this amino acid and be used to determine the presence or absence of autism.

In addition, this raises the possibility that autism may be treatable by a biochemical method such as a targeted medication.

While this is just a beginning, it certainly looks promising. 

Acne Drug Miracle for Intellectual Disabilities?

Minocycline, long used as a drug to treat acne, is showing promise in the treatment of intellectual disabilities associated with Fragile X syndrome, autism, and other intellectual disorders.

This medication reduces brain inflammation and suppresses MMP-9, a protein commonly overproduced in the brains of those with Fragile X syndrome. This protein interfers with normal neural development. Other side effects include a graying of the teeth. A few study participants also demonstrated blood test results indicative of an autoimmune disorder, but no other symptoms.

Trials of other medications to treat intellectual disabilities are also underway. Three inhibit production of another overproduced protein. The fourth appears to reduce hyperactivity and hypersensitivity. This medication, Arbaclofen, may help the same symptoms in those with autism.