Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder, affects one in every 59 children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The disorder is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. To date, researchers have not been able to find a cure for autism, and treatments are largely focused on alleviating symptoms.

However, a new study published in the Journal of Molecular Psychiatry suggests a promising biomarker for treating autism.

The researchers found that a molecule called N-acetylaspartate (NAA) may play a crucial role in the development of autism, which could lead to the development of effective treatments.

What is N-acetylaspartate?

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is a molecule found in the brain. It is produced by neurons and is involved in energy metabolism in the brain.

Previous research has shown that NAA levels are lower in people with neurological disorders such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

In the current study, the researchers found that NAA levels were significantly lower in people with autism compared to those without the disorder.

They also found that lower NAA levels were associated with more severe autism symptoms and lower IQ scores.

How the Study was Conducted

The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of Utah. The team analyzed brain scans of 45 people with autism and 45 people without the disorder.

The participants ranged in age from 6 to 32 years old.

The researchers used a technique called proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) to measure NAA levels in the brain.

They also assessed the participants’ IQ scores and administered the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Generic (ADOS-G) to evaluate autism symptoms.

Implications for Autism Treatment

The findings of this study suggest that NAA could be a promising biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of autism.

The researchers found that lower NAA levels were associated with more severe autism symptoms, which suggests that treatments aimed at increasing NAA levels in the brain could alleviate symptoms and improve overall functioning in people with the disorder.

However, it is important to note that this study is preliminary and more research is needed to confirm these findings.

The researchers also caution that increasing NAA levels in the brain could have unintended consequences and further research is needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of this approach.

Conclusion

Autism is a complex disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for autism, treatments are available that can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

The findings of this study suggest that NAA could be a promising biomarker for diagnosing and treating autism. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the safety and effectiveness of increasing NAA levels in the brain.