Check out the link below to watch a new blogcast in Spectrum News where Raphe and Jim discuss sleep on the spectrum! Learn more about possible causes, consequences, and tactics for parents of children with sleep difficulties.
Category Archives: News
Missense Mutations identify neurodevelopmental disorder genes
A recent publication from Dr. Evan Eichler, Dr. Raphe Bernier and others discuss how missense mutations may identify neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism. A missense mutation is when a single DNA letter is swapped with another, altering one amino acid in a protein. Although many missense mutations are harmless, Eichler, Bernier and others have identified some potentially harmful missense mutations associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The research was pusblished in 2017 in Nature Neuroscience. Spectrum News also discusses the study results with interviews from Dr. Eichler and others involved.
Scan of ‘missense’ mutations marks new suspects for autism risk
Regression in Autism
Check out this article about regression (loss of skills) in ASD. Challenging the notion of all or none when it comes to regression in early development, it may be more relevant to think broadly about the onset of ASD symptoms as well as losses, growth, spurts, and delays in development, generally.
CHD8 vs. SCN2A as ‘leading’ genes for ASD risk
Spectrum news published a great article on CHD8 gene events and SCN2A gene events as being two of the most important genetic predictors for Autism – and how different both genetic events are from one another. The Bernier Lab’s research on CHD8 and SCN2A has impacted much this research. Read the full article here:
https://spectrumnews.org/news/race-crack-autisms-code-two-contenders-shoot-ahead/
Spectrum Magazine starring Raphe and Jim!
Spectrum News has now picked up Raphe and Jim’s Autism Blogcast!!! The first episode includes interview with special guest Jennifer DiBona. Watch the first episode and add your comments!
Inside Scoop From the Autism Anchors: Special report on genetics
ABC Center in the News
The Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center (ABC) is a center for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities. These centers (e.g. Seattle, Bellevue) offer classes and activities for adults 18 years of age and older that focus on recreation, health and fitness, and life skills.
This year, Bernier Lab staff volunteered at one center providing mock-job interviews to students in a professional skills developing class.
The Seattle Times recently reported a wonderful story about the ABC center’s ‘Spring Fling’, featuring Kelley Fox. The Times Report sends a great message about the work ABC is doing and its impact on families and individuals who attend the centers.