Reversing autism with a cancer drug

Researchers may have found a promising new treatment for a genetic form of autism. Using experimental cancer drugs, scientists reversed the condition in mice.

It may soon be possible to reverse and even prevent autism.

According to the most recent estimates, 1 in 59children in the United States have an autismspectrum disorder (ASD).

Over 7 percent of these cases have been tied to chromosomal defects, suggesting that many of the impairments in social communication, movement, sensory perception, and behavior that characterize the syndrome are down to genes.

Specifically, some people with ASD are missing a piece of their chromosome 16.

Known as 16p11.2 deletion syndrome, this chromosomal defect often leads to neurodevelopmental disability and language skills impairment... read more