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December 2017 Research News & Updates
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Dear ARI subscriber, It's hard to believe that a new year is about to begin. What an exciting year it has been at the Autism Research Institute. As our 50th Anniversary year draws to a close, we look back at our organization's history and are humbled by the support we have received over the past five decades. By applying cutting-edge science, we continue to urge innovation within the autism community by connecting researchers, professionals, parents, and those on the spectrum, all of whom are passionate about improving the lives of persons with ASD. We continue to sustain this mission and will follow the science wherever it leads in 2018 and beyond.
For our friends in Southern California: ARI oversees an art gallery to help raise funds for autism research. This week we are giving away a free, signed postcard featuring Mark Rimland's artwork. As many of you know, Mark is a very talented artist, and he is the son of autism pioneer and advocate Dr. Bernard Rimland. If you are nearby and looking for special gifts, the gallery hours this week are noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Directions I wish you and yours the very best this holiday season and in the year to come. Sincerely,
Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Autism Research Institute
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Autism Research News & Updates
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Ancient mitochondrial DNA variants may affect autism risk, lead to metabolic therapies
Variations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) originating during ancient times may play a significant role in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a new study reports. |
Experiment points to excitatory-inhibitory imbalance in ASD
A new study offers strong evidence that autism spectrum disorders (ASD) involve an imbalance in signaling by excitatory and inhibitory neurons in one region of the brain. |
Single brain scan predicts ASD with high accuracy
A single brain scan can identify autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in six-month-old children with a remarkable degree of accuracy, according to a new study.
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ARI's Accomplishments in 2017
Funding innovative research providing the latest science-based information for people of all ages on the spectrum is our focus at ARI. In 2017 we did so through our annual think tank, in-person and online educational events and courses, and free webinars, and by funding the studies that hold the most promise for making a difference in the lives of people with autism. ARI continues to pioneer research, outreach, and cooperative efforts with other organizations worldwide. |
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Research we funded in 2017
The Autism Research Institute (ARI) conducts, sponsors, and supports research on the underlying causes of, and treatments for, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). In order to provide parents and professionals with an independent, unbiased assessment of causal and treatment efficacy issues, ARI seeks no financial support from government agencies or drug manufacturers.
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Donor Spotlight: Fun Run in Japan Supports ARI Research
Michael Currinder, an author and educator living in Japan, contacted us this fall about a fun run he planned benefitting autism research. Michael forwarded the proceeds from the event he organized to ARI and we deeply appreciate his efforts to create awareness and support the work we do. "I'm a teacher in Japan and our school (The American School in Japan) recently organized a fun run in order to raise funds for ARI; we made a little over $1000 in donations and a donation was made to ARI in honor of my brother: Christopher Currinder. |
| | | Author Michael Currinder | |
Christopher was my older brother who had autism in addition to several other cognitive delay issues. The theme of our fun run was based on my novel Running Full Tilt. This story explores a close yet complicated relationship between two brothers. Running becomes an outlet for both siblings, and a means for reconciliation - hence the theme of our fun run. My relationship with my brother was in the 1970s and 80s, and tremendous progress has been made in terms of understanding autism and providing support and treatment that didn't exist back then. So I wanted to say thank you for all your organization does."
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CME Webcasts: Anxiety, Immunological Issues in ASD
The health of children and adults with autism can be improved by clinicians knowledgeable about the medical etiologies associated with this complex disorder. |
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Sleep Issues in ASD - September 2017 Webinar
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Watch ARI past and future webinars online for free
ARI webinars are made possible through generous donor support including a generous grant from Local 25 Boston Teamsters.
D onate now to support this important free service for parents and professionals. Give now
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Opportunities to Participate in Research
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Survey Takers Needed: Autism & Ehlers-Danlos/Joint Hypermobility Syndrome
Researchers at the University of South Carolina are interested in learning more about certain medical issues experienced by adults 25 years of age or older with a diagnosis of ASD and/or EDS/JHS. The online survey takes 10-15 minutes to complete.
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Resiliency Program for Parents of Children with ASD
Massachusetts General Hospital's Parental Stress Study is offering a video-conferencing program to teach resiliency to parents who have children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The program will be 8 weeks long, and meet once a week for 1.5 hours. Please contact the Study investigators if you have any questions.
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Experiences of Children and Teens with ASD
This is a study that will compare how children ages 11-18 with and without autism experience the world around them.
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Parent-Training Program Study
Dr. Lauren Moskowitz, a frequent ARI webinar presenter on challenging behaviors and anxiety, is seeking participants in a research study on the effectiveness of a group parent-training program for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities (DD). Parents in the New York City or Long Island area are invited to participate.
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Inflammatory Subtype: Biomarkers
Dr. Harumi Jyonouchi is conducting research to characterize a previously unidentified inflammatory subtype of autism to improve autism treatment options. Individuals aged 1-30 years with autism and also typically developing individuals are invited to participate
Contact the Study Investigators
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Adults: Survey Takers Needed
If you or a person you care for is on the autism spectrum and is 50 years of age or older, we would appreciate it if you could complete the online form.
Learn More and take the survey
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Treatment-Effectiveness Survey
Researchers at Arizona State University are conducting a survey to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for autism, including medications, diets, therapies, and education. The investigators hope to learn which treatments are most effective for different symptoms (language, anxiety, sleep, GI, etc.). Survey results will be posted online for families and clinicians, and published in a scientific journal.
Share your experience - take the survey
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