Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Updated : December 15, 2014 12:16 PM IST
London, Dec 14: A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has somewhat resolved the mystery of autism, a neurological condition that disrupts normal brain development in children, affecting their ability to communicate and socialise.
While it is still unclear as to what leads to the disease, this study sheds light on inflammation in the brain as a possible cause of autism. Inflammation has not been well studied as the cause of autism and the role of innate immunity in controlling neural circuits is also less understood. This is because such studies need to be carried out on specific tissues obtained through autopsies. (Read: A breakthrough in autism treatment)
For this particular study, researchers analysed gene expression in samples obtained from 72 individuals suffering from autism as well as from controls available at two different tissue banks. The data obtained from samples of autistic individuals was compared with the controls. It was found that samples from autistic individuals exhibited significant immune response, with increased activity of microglial cells that protect the brain from invaders such as pathogens.
The researchers suggested that the brains of those suffering from autism had genes for inflammation activated. According to Andrew West, associate professor of neurology at the University of Alabama in Britain, this is a result of upstream gene mutation that causes a downstream effect. (Read: Alternative approaches to autism in children)
What next?
The study suggests that treating inflammation and lowering immune response might help ease a few symptoms of autism. However, further research will be needed.. (Read: World Autism Awareness Day 2014: Treating autism therapies and treatments)
While it may take years more to find a potential treatment for autism, here are some tips for parents to deal with kids with autism.
Pick up the sign early: Early detection is key to treat the complex neurological condition. With a mature brain it can take time for a child to respond well to the therapies and treatment, says Dr Pradnya Gadgil, consultant pediatric neurology and special interest in epilepsy, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.
Limit use of audio visual devices: If you know that your baby has autism it is even more necessary to limit usage of all the electronic devices like the smart phones, iPhones, iPads or even television viewing. Here are a few more tips to deal with autistic children.
With inputs from IANS
Photo source: Getty images
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