Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect social interaction, language, behavior and cognitive function. It typically appears in early childhood. Many UC San Diego researchers are studying the causes of ASD and new ways to identify and treat this complex disorder.

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Autism Research at UC San Diego

  • Autism Center of Excellence
    Investigating the underlying biology of autism and developing new diagnostic and therapeutic tools
  • Naviaux Lab
    Testing a new unifying theory for the genesis and treatment of autism. Results of a small clinical trial, announced in May 2017, with the drug suramin produced measurable but transient improvements in five boys with autism spectrum disorder.
  • Research on Autism and Development Lab
    Studying attention, sensory processing and motor function in autism
  • Muotri Lab
    Using stem cells to recreate the neural developmental stages of autism and other social disorders

Also See Epilepsy Center

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